FORT CAVAZOS – Eligible veterans and designated caregivers registered with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can access Fort Cavazos to obtain authorized benefits. Here’s a detailed guide for those living near Fort Cavazos:

Acceptable Purposes for Installation Access

You can access Fort Cavazos for:

• Medical appointments at VA or DOD medical facilities located on the installation.
• Shopping at commissaries and exchanges.
• Using certain Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facilities such as golf courses, bowling centers, recreational lodging, RV campgrounds, and movie theaters.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for benefits-related installation access, you must be:

• A veteran enrolled in VA health care with a VA or DOD medical appointment on the installation.
• A veteran with a service-connected disability.
• A veteran awarded a Purple Heart.
• A veteran with a Title 38 Prisoner of War determination.
• An approved and designated primary family caregiver of an eligible veteran under VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

Required Documentation

Accessing Fort Cavazos requires:

• An acceptable photo ID, such as a VA-issued Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) or a REAL ID Act-compliant driver’s license or non-driver’s identification card.
• For medical appointments, an email or appointment reminder showing the appointment for that day.
• For shopping and MWR activities, no additional documentation is needed due to the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System data feed to the installation visitor centers.

Steps for Enrolling for Installation Access

On your first visit to Fort Cavazos, you must enroll for access at the installation visitor center. The enrollment process involves:

1. Establishing Identity: Present your credential (VHIC or REAL ID). If your VHIC cannot be scanned or lacks a barcode, you will need to get a new card from your local VA medical center.
2. Establishing Fitness: Undergo an on-the-spot criminal record and terrorism check. Individuals with felony convictions, arrest warrants, or other derogatory information related to criminal history or terrorism will not be granted access to the installation.
3. Establishing Purpose: Provide proof of appointment for healthcare access or rely on electronic verification by the DOD for shopping access.

Additional Information for Fort Cavazos Residents

• Visitor Center Location: The Marvin Leath Visitor Center at Fort Cavazos is located at the main entrance of the installation. Be sure to stop here on your first visit to complete the enrollment process.
• Contact Information: For any questions or assistance, you can contact the Marvin Leath Visitor Center at (254) 287-9909.
• Local Resources: Fort Cavazos offers various resources and support for veterans and caregivers, including medical services, recreational activities, and shopping facilities. Take advantage of these benefits to enhance your well-being and quality of life.

Veterans and eligible caregivers now have easier access to Department of Defense (DOD) installations. Since last month, the updated process announced by VA and DOD streamlines both enrollment and access to installations. More information can be found in DOD’s fact sheet.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of the resources available at Fort Cavazos!