Freedom Fest to have increased security

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Sheppard will host the biennial Freedom Fest from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. at the Sheppard Clinic grounds July 3.

Those with Department of Defense ID cards may enter through the main gate. The Clinic gate opens to the public at 1 p.m.

Heather Newsom, 82nd Force Support Squadron marketing chief, said security is important and measures are put in place for the purpose of keeping everyone in attendance safe.

"Please remember these security requirements are for your safety and are imposed upon all of us equally," she said recently. "Air Force and local law enforcement officials will be in place at base entrances to enforce these rules. All individuals and vehicles entering the base are subject to search. The rules and their enforcement will not be final until the day of Freedom Fest when you actually enter the gates at Sheppard and pass through the security checkpoints."

Each year, the base receives many inquiries as to what people are allowed to bring. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers.

Question: "If I cannot bring something into Freedom Fest, can I go out to my car during the show?"
Yes. Since this show has no admission fee, you may leave and re-enter as you desire. Anyone re-entering will have to go through security checkpoints again.

Question: "Can I bring a purse?"
Small purses are permitted, subject to approval by gate security personnel and a hand-search at the gate. Large purses (tote bag type) are not permitted.

Question: "Can I bring my camera, video camera and cell phone?"
Yes. There are no restrictions on electronics. However, large camera bags are not permitted. Bring only necessary camera equipment, leaving extra attachments at home. A small fanny pack or camera vest is useful for carrying extra film and small lenses.

Question: "Can I bring a folding chair?"
Yes. If your folding chair comes in a carrying case, please have the chair out of the case as you go through the security check point.

Question: "Can parents bring a stroller, diaper bag, change of clothes, etc. for their children?"
Yes. Strollers and wagons will be hand-searched at the gate. Please bring only necessary items in a small diaper bag, subject to hand-search at the gate. Large diaper bags may not be permitted. You can return to your vehicle during the show to get extra clothes, re-stock diaper items, etc.

Anyone wanting to gain acess prior to 1 p.m. or for more information visit www.sheppardfreedomfest.com.