Former Nuclear Missile Site Cleaned By Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton

LORTON, VA — A site that was once a nuclear missile site during the Cold War is now the location of a recently-completed service project.

Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton, part of the national nonprofit bringing sons and mothers together for community service, partnered with the Fairfax County Park Authority on Oct. 23 to clean the historic grounds of the Nike Missile site in Lorton. The site was once one of the defense sites armed with nuclear warheads to respond to potential attacks at the height of the Cold War.

The cleanup project was part of Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton's Ultimate Gift initiative, aimed at expanding young men's knowledge of Fairfax County history and build a sense of stewardship in the community. At the Lorton site, 126 moms and sons collectively put in 300 hours over the course of five hours.

The initiative draws inspiration from Jim Stovall's novel "Ultimate Gift," which follows the story of a grandson who expects an inheritance when his wealthy grandfather dies. Instead, the grandfather leaves him with twelve "gifts," or tasks to teach his grandson the value of serving others.

“I’m proud of YMSLVO’s boys and their commitment to serving the community," said Gayle Job, president of Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton. "It was great to see such a large coalition of our Chapter engaged together to ensure the Nike Missile site remains a treasured part of Fairfax County’s history. Everyone supported one another, working together in teams alongside FCPA representatives who are clearly dedicated to their work."

The site was one of three Nike missile sites in Fairfax County, built in the 1950s. It was also one of 13 surrounding Washington, DC in case any attacks came at the height of the Cold War. Today, it is surrounded by housing developments.

Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton offers volunteer work through a network of 26 area charities. In addition, sons attend six meetings each year to boost their knowledge and experience in various topics, including social skills, smart decision-making, health and nutrition, and practical life skills. Meetings are organized and led by sons.

Those interested in joining Young Men’s Service League Vienna-Oakton can begin submitting applications for the class of 2026 starting in January 2022. For more information, contact President Gayle Job at ymslvo@gmail.com.