FORT IRWIN, Calif. — The Fort Irwin Garrison Commander, Col. Jeanette Martin, hosted two dozen Gold Star family members on March 6 at the National Training Center.
The members were part of a special, NTC Community Box Tour, where guests had a chance to see how more than 5,000 train for combat soldiers each month.
NTC’s Commanding General, Brig. Gen. David Lesperance, kicked off the tour with an in-brief discussion and presentation about the installation, then guests received a riding tour of the Fort Irwin Housing area and cantonment (including PX/Commissary, schools) from Col. Martin, before heading out to the training center.
Survivors find easier access to Army installations
Certain Gold Star and next-of-kin survivors are expected to find it easier to visit Army installations, since a new process went into effect in January.
The new survivor’s access policy allows qualified survivors to get through gate security more easily and travel on post without an escort to attend events, view memorials, receive services and similar activities using their survivor’s access card.
“The Army values people, especially our Gold Star spouses and family members,” said Lt. Gen. Douglas Gabram, commanding general, U.S. Army Installation Management Command. “This change allows them to more easily receive the benefits and services to which they are entitled, and helps enable them to remain connected to the Army.”
Eligible survivors may apply for and receive a survivor’s access card through the Army’s Automated Installation Entry system at their local garrison. Installations without AIE will use DA Form 1602 for survivor’s access.
For more information on Survivor Outreach Services, visit
https://www.armymwr.com/…/personal-assist…/survivor-outreach