When people think of the Cold War and nuclear missile defenses, they tend to think of large, open, rural areas in the western and midwestern states. That’s where missile silos are most often pictured and where many are situated today.
Yet, from 1956-1972, 12 anti-aircraft ballistic missile sites ringed both Bridgeport and Hartford since they had been designated as among the 40 U.S. cities deemed critically important to defend against attack.
During this period, the military strategy changed. The decision was made to switch from 12 ballistic missile sites to three Nike Hercules nuclear missile sites, with nuclear warheads stored in silos in three communities in the state. Most residents were unaware of the program. Even though many knew that military sites were in their town, they had no idea that nuclear missiles and their control facilities were housed literally in residents’ backyards in some instances.
Noted podcaster and public speaker Mike Allen will be discussing where these sites were located, how they functioned, and the times when we almost had to use the missiles. There will be a particular focus on Simsbury’s site.