Expert: Aaron Shifferly - 10/12/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi, and thanks for taking the time out to read this. I know this might sound a little crazy, but I was wondering if it's possible to make a 'surprise' visit to someone that is living in an army base? I live in Miami, and my boyfriend lives in an apartment in the Grafenwöhr Base in Germany. My question is, is it possible for me to go there and surprise him? Is it possible at all? Would they let me inside? I know it is a huge base but I have his exact address.
I would make sure when he is free for that week, but I would love if he didn't have to know i was going- I would like to surprise him and propose to him when I get there. Another question, would it be possible for me to stay on base with him?

I hope i can gave enough information and any help is really appreciated! This really means a lot to me, thanks again!

ANSWER: First, it is very difficult and, without assistance from a friend of his, you won't be able to get on base.  You'll need a pass for the base and that requires someone with a military ID to get you one.  As far as staying with him, I can't say yes or know because I dont know if he's in the barracks or in an actual military housing unit.  If he's in the barracks, the answer will be no.  Barracks rules generally prohibit visitors past midnight and almost always prohibit overnight guests.  You could have him get you a room at the army lodging hotel on base if he has enough time to plan (Graf is pretty high traffic and the rooms are difficult to come by.. otherwise an off post hotel will need to be secured.)  If your boyfriend has a military housing unit (in this case it would be because he's either an E7 or has kids), you could stay there since its essentially an apartment.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you so much! Very thorough information!
but I have one more question: How would i go about getting a pass? I have to ask a friend of his before I arrive? I'm sorry, I just don't really understand how that works. Thanks again, you're so helpful :)


Answer
Well you'd get a pass when you arrive at the gate.  You would need a friend of his (military ID card holder) to be with you in order to show their ID and assume responsibility for you during your visit.  You would need a photo ID which isn't a huge deal since you'll undoubtedly have a passport for your visit.  Also, if you chose to rent a vehicle (I assume you would to get from the airport) you'd need the registration documents (provided with the rental agreement).