CHEYENNE -- The Air Force held a memorial service for deceased missile workers Friday at a celebration here marking the 50th anniversary of nuclear deterrent defense in America.
In 1959, the first land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, or ICBMs, in the country went on alert in the midst of the Cold War.
Since then, the men and women who have maintained and operated those missiles have fulfilled their mission of nuclear deterrence and kept America safe, retired chaplain Maj. Gen. Charles C. Baldwin said at the service.
On Friday, the Air Force honored those missileers who have died, either while performing their duties or otherwise.
“Our Air Force didn’t face the dangers of World War II and Korea,” retired Chaplain Charles G. Simpson said. “We’ve had very few fatalities in our business.”
Still, there have been crews killed in crashes, fires, explosions and accidents, he said.
He asked the airmen, officers and ICBM community gathered at the memorial to honor those who paved the way for today’s missileers and those who continue to serve in their crucial mission.
Missile defense is “another good fight,” Baldwin added. “It is among the most critical fights that will ever be fought.”
He thanked God and the former missileers that the weapons have not had to be launched.
“How do we honor those who have gone before?” he asked. “Renewed commitment to not blink is one way.”
The participants stood to observe a moment of silence and the playing of Taps. The memorial was part of the 50th anniversary symposium hosted by F.E. Warren Air Force Base over the last few days. Representatives from bases across the country attended.
After the memorial, the symposium concluded with a presentation of original artwork to the Air Force commemorating the anniversary.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley accepted the artwork on behalf of the Air Force. It will be displayed at his office at the Pentagon.
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