Another layer of security added to Peterson gates Published Aug. 13, 2007 PETERSON AFB -- For those entering Peterson, a simple flash of the ID card won't be enough. DEFENSE ID, a new security device to help secure the installation, is being put into use here, base officials announced in early August. The advanced identification card verification system will be used at all Peterson and Cheyenne Mountain gates. The system uses a handheld computer to check ID cards, making sure they are valid, authentic, and the person is not wanted. "This technology will help deter and detect unauthorized individuals attempting to enter the installation, giving Peterson security forces an additional tool in the Global War on Terrorism," said Mr. Earl Gillis, the wing's antiterrorism officer. Also, visitors requesting entry will be screened using the identification verification system as part of installation entry procedures. The system is already in use at other military installations worldwide. Its implementation here will help better secure the base, according to Master Sgt. Isaac Lopez, operations support for the 21st Security Forces Squadron. The system resembles a heavy-duty PDA with a bar code and magnetic stripe reader. Guards and security forces will use the device to scan the identification cards currently used by military members and government employees. Information is checked through more than 100 databases of individuals who are wanted for criminal offenses or are barred from military installations. It takes about one to three seconds to check the ID, Sergeant Lopez said. "We have a base barment list, a wanted list, (be on the lookout) list, missing (identification) card list; there is a huge amount info on people who shouldn't come on base," Sergeant Lopez said. "So if someone has a bad (identification) card, currently the only way we can verify it is to check against a paper copy or manually input the (identification) into a computer. This scanner will check all the databases in three to five seconds." Databases include the FBI and Office of Special Investigations most wanted lists, and others. Each night the scanner will be updated with current lists. More than 70 local, state and national sources are checked. A desktop station at the visitors center will check contractor and other visitor identifications for wants and warrants. Training is under way for security forces and AKAL security and they will begin using the devices soon. Comment on this story.