Autobahn Travel
Qne of the most
significant geographic features of Berlin is its location 110 miles inside
Eastern Ger many. Personnel driving from Berlin to the Federal Republic must
contend with traffic, plan for ap proximately three hours of actual driving time
and process through four required checkpoints, before they reach the West German
border. The only authorized route for POV travelers wishing to leave the city is
the Berlin-Helmstedt Autobahn. With the beginning of summer, a not able increase
in the volume of auto-bahn traffic is expected. To avoid unnecessary
difficulties and delay during travel, the attention of all personnel is invited
to the following information. Motorists are urged to check their automobiles
thoroughly before starting their trip. Lights, windshield wipers, speedometer
and safety features must be in good working order. Each vehicle must also have a
ser- viceable set of tires and tire changing tools and a full tank of gas. The
administrative processing procedures are precise but not difficult to follow.
Before departing the unit area, the traveler should become familiar with the
provisions of USAREUR Regulation 550-180. All unit commanders should ensure that
this information is available and disseminated on a scheduled basis. The first
required stop is Allied Check point Bravo, located approximately 2.5 miles
outside of Berlin on the East Gerrnan border. Several signs announce the
traveler's approach to Allied Checkpoint Bravo and the checkpoint building
itself is a well marked one-story structure with flags of the three Allied
nations flying above it. All travelers must be especially watchful for these
markings, particularly at night. At the checkpoint the motorist will present his
flag orders and his authorization for travel for himself and his dependents, his
ID card or passport, and his vehicle registration. When it has been established
that his automobile is in good mechanical condition and he has the proper
equipment and documentation, the traveler will receive a thorough briefing from
an experienced Military Policeman. His instructions will concern the correct
route of travel to Helmstedt and processing procedures at the Soviet
checkpoints. Each motorist should make every effort to study the map and pose
any questions regarding his journey before leaving the checkpoint area. He
should refer to his map whenever he is in doubt during the trip. When he departs
Checkpoint Bravo, the careful traveler should be well-equipped for all
contingencies which may arise en route
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