Posted on Feb 19, 2024
SPC Randy Torgerson
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I recently received 10% service connected disability. Is it enough to gain commissary and base access with my VA id card? Or do I need 20%+
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Responses: 5
COL Randall C.
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Edited 10 mo ago
As of January 1st, 2020, Veterans with any service-connected disability are eligible.

As for base access, you'll need your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC). You will likely have to register for an extended pass to get access to the base though. This will vary depending on the base's access policy (almost all will require you to get an extended pass).
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https://www.va.gov/resources/commissary-and-exchange-privileges-for-veterans/
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SPC Randy Torgerson
SPC Randy Torgerson
9 mo
FYI, it's not really an extended pass per se. But they do have you fill out a form and a quick background check is done. The whole process is less then 30 minutes. Then it is all connected to your VHIC card which should have "Service Connected" printed on it. The only thing you have to show at the gate is your VA id card.
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COL Randall C.
COL Randall C.
9 mo
SPC Randy Torgerson - As mentioned above, this is specific to the base's access policy.

For example, what you're describing is possible because of the VHIC is compatible with the Automated Installation Entry system (version 2+), so scanning your VHIC will display the same information to the gate access personnel as scanning a USID would.

However, not all installations are using a compatible entry system and/or have local policies that won't allow VHIC to be used as an access identification.
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SPC Randy Torgerson
SPC Randy Torgerson
9 mo
I just signed up at Miramar and next will be Camp Pendleton, as I am right between the 2 bases.
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SPC Josh Dionio
SPC Josh Dionio
7 mo
You will need a REAL ID too per the regs and such. Bases started to enforce it the beginning of the year, even if the rest of the US doesn't require it until May of 2025. https://veteran.com/real-id-act/
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SP5 Peter Keane
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Edited 10 mo ago
Veterans with a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) documented service-connected disability rating are eligible You don’t need to apply, but you’ll need to have the right kind of ID at checkout. You can show your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) or a letter from VA along with your passport or driver’s license. to shop the commissary.
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SPC Randy Torgerson
SPC Randy Torgerson
10 mo
So even 10% [va documented] will allow me to drive on base?
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PVT Steven Bornman
PVT Steven Bornman
10 mo
SPC Randy Torgerson Yes. 10 - 100 (Temporary). If and when you become 100% scheduler or T.DI.U. (Total and Permanent) can get you a Military ID card. One of the new USID cards.
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PVT Steven Bornman
PVT Steven Bornman
9 mo
SPC Randy Torgerson Yes, as long as you pass a background check at the visitor center.
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SPC Randy Torgerson
SPC Randy Torgerson
9 mo
PVT Steven Bornman - That's never a problem.
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PVT Steven Bornman
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Another hurdle is that one can't be a convicted felon, and they will run a background check at the visitor center before issuing a base pass. But, those with a Military ID saying 100% DAV on it doesn't face such scrutiny at the gate. Interesting.
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Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna
Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna
10 mo
Wow!…
I am at 40% only..
Everything else has been denied @ Camp LeJeune …
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SPC Randy Torgerson
SPC Randy Torgerson
10 mo
I have no problem with a background.... My new VA id card showing a disability is on it's way to me. Thanks for all the info.
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PVT Steven Bornman
PVT Steven Bornman
10 mo
Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna You must appeal, and appeal more to get what you think is due. It took me 18 years to get my 100 T&P rating retroactive back to the date of claim. Add 2 more years and at the 20 year mark my rating is protected for life.
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PVT Steven Bornman
PVT Steven Bornman
10 mo
SPC Randy Torgerson You're welcome. And enjoy.
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