Ellsworth installs biometric system

  • Published
  • By 28th Security Forces Squadron
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Security Forces Squadron will begin utilizing new handheld equipment for scanning ID cards at the installation gates, starting Feb. 14, as part of the test for a newer version of the Defense Biometric Identification System, or DBIDS.

Ellsworth Air Force Base is one of two military installations across the nation selected to beta test the new identification system.

"DBIDS is a Homeland Security and Department of Defense initiative used to manage personnel, property and installation access," said Tech. Sgt. Jon Proffit, 28th SFS Visitor Control Center NCO-in charge of pass and registration. "Previous versions of DBIDS required everyone to be manually registered into the system prior to entry onto the installation. This process was extremely labor intensive and inconvenient for ID card holders, but necessary to meet DoD requirements. Ellsworth and Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D. will participate in this beta test of the DBIDS 4.0 version - which eliminates the need for all ID cardholders to pre-register."

Registration into the system will happen automatically when an ID card is scanned at the gate entrance. According to Sergeant Proffit, the testing period will last approximately six months. The exact end date of the test will be determined by the performance and functionality of the equipment and data provided.

DBIDS 4.0 allows 28th SFS Airmen to register personnel at Ellsworth who are in possession of a Common Access Card, or CAC, or any other approved DoD ID card with a barcode, with a DBIDS handheld scanner. The process usually takes three to five seconds per person. Individuals carrying older style cards without a barcode, such as retirees with an Air Force Form 2AF ID card, are encouraged to visit the Military Personnel Element at the Rushmore Center for a new RAPIDS ID card during the test period. While this is encouraged, it will not be mandated until DBIDS is fully operational.

"Short-and long-term passes for visitors, guests and contractors will be issued primarily through the Visitor Control Center for use with the DBIDS system," said Sergeant Proffit. "Current long-term base passes will be replaced in the new system through attrition."

Sergeant Proffit added that the 28th SFS appreciates the cooperation and patience of all base personnel during the continued efforts to make Ellsworth a safer and more secure environment.

For more information, contact Sergeant Proffit or Randall Holroyd, 28th SFS VCC pass and registration clerk, at (605) 385-2895.