Parris Island increases security for graduation days

by Summer Swanson

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island will have federal law enforcement personnel present at installation access points during Recruit Family and Graduation Days to expedite enhanced base access procedures.

“Due to an elevated force protection posture, additional support from federal law enforcement partners is essential. Their assistance enables us to maintain thorough and efficient screening while minimizing delays for our visitors,” said the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in a press release.

They said the collaborative effort ensures the highest security standards are upheld, protects critical infrastructure and provides a safe and orderly environment for families celebrating graduations.

“Due to increased force protection measures and to expedite enhanced base access procedures, federal law enforcement personnel will be present at installation access points during Recruit Family and Graduation Days,“ is the statement on their website.

We reached out to an ICE spokesperson who said ICE agents and the Department of Homeland Security will not be at the graduation events on Parris Island this weekend. The spokesperson tells us they have not been at previous graduations.

We have reached out to Parris Island to clarify what federal government law enforcement agency will be there.

All individuals 18 years of age and older must present a valid form of identification to access the base. Acceptable forms of ID include:

REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued identification card
United States passport
Other federally approved identification credentials

Foreign nationals who have not submitted SECNAV Form 5512/1 for base access to Parris Island will not be granted entry and may be subject to additional screening by government partner agencies.

Undocumented visitors are prohibited from access to the depot.

The Provost Marshal’s Office will conduct vehicle inspections prior to entry. All vehicles are subject to search. Firearms, ammunition and other prohibited items are not authorized aboard the installation.

For questions regarding prohibited items, contact the Provost Marshal’s Office at 843-228-3444 or 843-228-2995.

The depot is asking service members and visitors for patience and understanding, as enhanced security measures may result in longer wait times at the gates.