Gaining entrance to a U.S. military base is possible, especially if you know the right people or provide a needed service. If you're just looking for a tour of your local base, it helps if you come with a group the military likes. Most bases will not let you on without an appointment, a visitor's pass and a military escort.

It's Who You Know

Your best bet to gaining entry is knowing someone in the military who can escort you. This can be an enlisted or retired service member who is willing to vouch for you.

It's Who They Know

If you don't know anyone in the military, all is not lost. Another path of entry is through a vendor with a visitor's pass. If you know someone who deliveries goods to your local base, you can ride shotgun and go along. Be prepared to show a picture ID and your Social Security card, or you will be denied entrance.

It's What You Do

If you are a small-business owner, you may be in luck. Most bases have what the military calls small business specialists. They provide local businesses with base tours and some inside knowledge of base projects. A small business specialist will set you up with an appointment to visit and will escort you on base. The military often contracts out jobs and services, and your business may have just what your local base is looking for.

It's Whom You Hang Out With

If you fall outside the other categories, you have at least one other route into a military base: the groups you belong to. The military wants a good public image and likes to associate with groups that can help. These include pro-military associations, churches, colleges and universities, civic groups and charities. Your group will need to set up an appointment and likely will be assigned an escort. Everyone will need to present a picture ID and his Social Security card, and then your group will be ready to explore.

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The Secret To Getting A Private Tour of Your Local Military Base

Call Your Area Military Base and Get a Tour