John Eld, North Hills resident, was Assistant Director of Civil Defense for McCandless Township during the Cold War and took an active part in plans for our local area’s preparedness for nuclear attack. Instructions for schools, businesses and homes in the case of such a disaster were needed, as well as a need for the coordination of the various local townships’ defense organizations. Due to his organization’s efforts, the first joint civil defense council in Allegheny County was developed in the North Hills area in 1961.Looking back on those days brings the realization that our country was woefully unprepared for the realities of nuclear warfare. How close did we come to war during the Cuban Missile Crisis? Are we better prepared now? Are we capable today of responding to a major nuclear incident? Compared to the 1960’s, can our advanced methods of communication prevent such a disaster?Along with his presentation, John will display some of the equipment and artifacts from those days as he discusses the realities of war we have faced ever since the Cold War. Join us on Thursday, June 13 at 7:00 pm for an interesting look at our local history during a time of crisis. This program is free to all those interested, however registration is required. Please contact the adult services department at 412-366-8100, extension 113 or you may sign-u pthrough the library’s website: www.northlandlibrary.org/news/calendar.html
