Staying safe when traveling outside U.S. borders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Caitlin Guinazu
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affair
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Summer is here and the travel season is upon us. But with great fun and the dream of clear skies and beautiful beaches also comes necessary responsibilities.

While planning your travels, make sure to review the Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide for any updated travel restriction that may have been implemented. Based on the risk of the health, welfare and security of the force, this prohibition applies to all military members assigned or attached to 12th Air Force.

"It's important to review the foreign clearance guide in order to get the updated information on the area you're traveling to," said Master Sgt. Robert Simpson, 366th Fighter Wing Anti-terrorism officer. "A lot of areas can be dangerous and full of criminal activity, but being here, we don't realize it."

The new rules for leisure travel to a non-restricted location stipulate the individual must obtain the wing commander's approval at least 45 days prior to requested date of departure to Mexico, or Squadron commander's approval for low risk areas.

With at least seven days prior to requested date of departure when submitting for Emergency Travel to a restricted location.

"The commander is ultimately responsible for the whereabouts of his troops and is better informed of any possible dangers that his troops might not be aware of," said Dana Pomerantz, 366th Medical Support Squadron Unit Program Coordinator.

The approval process has recently been updated to include electronic routing and digital signatures. Making the processes more efficient and allowing Airmen to fulfill these requirements with ease.

"The consequence for not obeying these rules is the individual being prosecuted under Article 92 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice," said Simpson. "Some of the hazards can be being robbed, kidnapped or even killed."

Although the guide is a criteria for policy awareness it also reiterates requirements for non-official travel to Mexico for 12th AF personnel, specifically minimum approval authorities, Smart Traveler Enrollment Program registration and a valid passport. Personnel should also carefully review the EFCG guidance in its entirety prior to any travel plans.

In order to promote safety, here are the required stipulations for traveling military members.
1. Regardless of location or method of travel, a passport is required when leaving the country.

2. STEP registration with the State Department is required for travel to all locations; which provides the US Embassy awareness of the traveler in case of an emergency.

3. A Travel and Communications Plan and Exception to Travel Approval Form are required for all travel and must be forwarded through the servicing wing for coordination.

4. Research location using the Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide to ensure safe travels.

For more information contact the installation Anti-terrorism officer, or visit https://www.fcg.pentagonmil/fcg.cfm to view the most up to date Electronic Foreign Clearance guide.