Joint Base Lewis-McChord announced Wednesday an increase in security presence in the wake of the 9/11 anniversary on Sunday .

Though there are no specific threats to installations, DOD approved U.S. Northern Command's recommendation to elevate force protection levels in what officials are calling "an abundance of caution."

"While the intelligence community has no credible threats, they have concerns," said Thomas Rudd, JBLM protection division chief. The measures are a response to the threat potential during a symbolic period. Law enforcement is taking extra precautions that will temporarily impact life on base.

"Everybody coming onto the installation is going to be affected in one capacity or another," JBLM Provost Marshal Lt. Col. Ted Solonar said.

Aside from more frequent vehicle inspections and increased scrutiny at gates, rules for visitors will be more stringent. U.S. citizens without access will require ID-card holder sponsorship to get onto the base; non-citizens will be sponsored and escorted.

Officials predict increased inspections causing traffic build-ups at gates and longer lines at the Visitor's Center. The JBLM community will see more security patrols, particularly in populated areas, by law enforcement personnel authorized to carry additional weapons.

Solonar noted that security can be inconvenient - but worth it.

"Our heightened security measures may cause some minor inconveniences to those entering the installation. However, that's a small price to pay for ensuring the safety and well-being of our servicemembers, Families and employees," JBLM commander Col. Thomas Brittain said. "I'd ask everyone to be patient as we take these required steps to protect our community." To report suspicious activity, call 967-7112/7113 or 911 in an emergency.