Military members leaving home from on leave can now spend a little more time with their families before returning to duty in a combat zone.

Thanks to a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security directive. (TSA security directive 1544-01-10w Access To Sterile Concourse For Non-Traveling Individuals), the direct family of servicemembers can now accompany their Sailor, Soldier, Airmen or Marine through security and directly to the gate of their flight, said Krista Cossalter-Sandberg, SeaTac USO executive director.

“It’s nice when the families can do this,” said Cossalter-Sandberg. “They get to see their servicemember for a few hours longer and that can mean a lot to them before he or she is possibly sent into harms way.”

For non-traveling individuals wanting to get past security, Cossalter-Sandberg said arrangements should be made through the individual airlines and not the airport.

“Family members should call the airlines and see if they require any special documentation before coming to the airport. Once they’ve made arrangements, they should get here about two hours before the flight to be sure they get through security.

Family members should bring a valid photo I.D. to the airport with them and their servicemember should bring a copy of their orders, said Jennifer Peppin, a TSA spokesman.

“This is a relatively new directive from the TSA and some airline employees may not be familiar with it so I recommend families arrive at the airport early,” said Peppin. “This directive was put in place to benefit America’s military and their families. We understand that a few extra moments with a loved one can mean all the difference before they’re shipped off to hazardous duty."