The United States Army is the largest and oldest branch of the United States Armed Forces. It is also one of the seven uniformed services of the United States. The Army is tasked with protection of the United States and its citizens, both at home and abroad. The Army has been involved in a number of conflicts, both internal and external, over the years. One of the most recent and controversial is the U.S. Army’s involvement in Mexico.
The U.S. Army is not allowed to cross the border into Mexico without the permission of the Mexican government. There have been instances where the Mexican government has given the U.S. Army permission to cross the border in order to pursue criminals or participate in joint military exercises, but these are rare.
Can I go to Mexico if I join the army?
The US military has a travel ban in place for all non-work related travel through the Mexico border, or within 50 miles of the border in Mexico’s side. The only Mexican border state that is not completely off-limits is Baja California. Travelers must complete an Exception to Policy Form in order to be exempt from the travel ban.
As of October 1, 2020, the following forms of identification are not considered valid for the purpose of crossing the San Diego ‒ Tijuana border:
-Voter’s registration card
-Military ID
-Driver’s license
-Social security card
For more information on the San Diego ‒ Tijuana border crossing, please visit the Smart Border Coalition website.
Why can’t the US military go to Mexico
The Mexico Travel Policy was put into effect in December 2008 in order to try to reduce the amount of violent crime in Mexico. The policy states that soldiers are not allowed to travel to the borders of Mexico, in order to try to keep them safe from potential harm. Although the policy may seem like it is limiting the soldiers’ ability to travel, it is ultimately in their best interests.
The 2021 updates to the US military’s travel restrictions list relatively safe and stable US allies like the UAE and Israel in the same way as travel to Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Syria, or Yemen. The restrictions do not only affect visiting troops, but also civilians who work for the military or who are contractors.
Is military allowed to go to Tijuana?
All Marines and sailors who wish to visit Mexico must first complete anti-terrorism training. Those who are approved to cross the border must be at least 18 years old and must travel in pairs (the buddy system).
Other accepted travel documents for members of the US Armed Forces on active duty include the SENTRI, NEXUS, and FAST cards, as well as the US Coast Guard Mariner Document.
Can I travel with just my military ID?
In order to fly within the United States, you must have an acceptable ID that can be used to verify your identity. Some examples of acceptable IDs include a valid passport, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or US military ID. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to fly.
Starting October 2020, travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant card, or another acceptable form of identification, to fly within the United States. If you have a passport, you do not need a REAL ID.
A REAL ID-compliant card is a driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced security standards established by the federal government. A REAL ID card cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant card, you can use another acceptable form of identification when flying, such as a passport.
Why can’t Marines go to Mexico
All troops who wish to visit Mexico must first complete anti-terrorism training. Those who are 18 or older and have the OK to cross the border must travel together in pairs (the buddy system). This is for their safety and protection.
The Mexican states of Michoacan, Tamaulipas, Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosi, Jalisco, Zacatecas, Sonora and Nayarit are off-limits to active duty military personnel unless they are executing official travel orders.
Is Mexico a military ally?
Mexico is a member of the Pacific Alliance, which is a regional organization that promotes economic integration. Mexico is not part of any military alliance.
The Mexican-American War was fought from 1846 to 1848 and was the first US armed conflict chiefly fought on foreign soil. The war arose from the US annexation of Texas in 1845 and from Mexico’s refusal to recognize the Rio Grande as the southern border of the US. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which gave the US control of present-day California, Utah, Nevada, and parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado.
How far can a soldier travel without a pass
There is no mileage restriction on the distance a Soldier may travel, but individual units may have published leave and pass policies and/or standard operating procedures that address the issue.
The Neutrality Act of 1939 was passed by Congress in response to the outbreak of war in Europe. The Act prohibits Americans from enlisting in foreign militaries and from providing material support to belligerents. The Act also prohibits American vessels from entering war zones and from carrying munitions or other war materials to belligerents. Finally, the Act requires the President to issue a proclamation of neutrality whenever the United States is threatened with involvement in a foreign war.
Can you go on vacation while in the military?
While everyone in the military earns 25 days of leave (vacation time) for every month of active duty service, that doesn’t mean you can use your vacation any time you want. There are specific times and requirements for using your leave, and if you don’t follow them, you may not be able to take your vacation at all.
There are many retired US vets, including from the Marines, living permanently in Mexico. While both countries are free, Marines can visit as civilians.
Conclusion
Since Mexico is not a designated combat zone, Army soldiers are not allowed to go there.
Yes, Army soldiers are allowed to travel to Mexico. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as making sure your passport is up to date and getting the proper vaccinations, but overall, there are no restrictions on travel for Army soldiers.
