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Force Protection Switch to Increase Security

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060311-02
3/11/2006

By Journalist 3rd Class Heather Weaver, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- National Naval Medical Center changed its security to an all Defense Department force March 1.

Security officials say base security will increase now that the switch has taken place.

"The base now has police officers versus security guards which generates more authority," said Lt. George McGrew, acting chief of police at National Naval Medical Center. "The personnel at the gates now have apprehension authority whereas the contract guards had to contact the police and request assistance if there were any issues."

McGrew said the Commander, Navy Installations Command made the decision to switch to a Defense Department manned security force after performing a vulnerability assessment of the base. The inspection took place in 2002 and the decision was made at that time.

"[After the initial assessment,] they said our manning levels would change and they began integrating military billets," McGrew said. "About six months ago, we began seeing an influx of personnel."

The civilian security guards’ contracts ended March 1, according to Chief Master-at-Arms Michael Robinson, assistant police chief at Bethesda. The personnel relocated to different security posts on other institutions through their contracting company.

"[Having military members on the gate] will improve the security of the base, because the military members know the specific questions that need to be asked when challenging an individual," Robinson said. "Also, just their mere presence gives the person who may want to do wrong a second thought when they see guards in a more stringent force protection look. Everyone should expect the Sailors to ask certain questions and be prepared to show documentation."

Security personnel are urging service members and Defense Department civilians to use their common access card to enter the installation, but they will continue to accept hospital-issued staff badges.

"Customer service goes both ways," McGrew said. "We’re providing a service by allowing people onto the compound. [Police] officers are required to show courtesies and we ask people to do the same. Procedures are put in place for the safety and security of the people on this command, as well as all Navy assets."