Air Force Link News Article

Last Minuteman II missile wing inactivates


F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. (AFNS) -- After 32 years of contributing to strategic deterrence and the nation's defense, the 351st Missile Wing at Whiteman AFB, Mo., entered the history books July 31 as the Air Force's last Minuteman II missile wing to inactivate since the end of the Cold War.

"Since 1963, the 351st has been at the forefront of nuclear deterrence, the tip of America's nuclear spear," said Gen. Ronald R. Fogleman, Air Force chief of staff, in a congratulatory message. "Rest assured your hard work has made the United States a safer place."

"The unquestioned result of your dedication to this vital mission is a lasting peace, culminating in our ultimate Cold War victory. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, you once again took the lead in ensuring the safety and security of the United States by building a more stable world with fewer nuclear weapons," said Maj. Gen. Bob Parker, 20th Air Force commander, responsible for operating and maintaining America's ICBM force.

Activated as the 351st Strategic Missile Wing Feb. 3, 1963, the unit operated Minuteman I missiles until October 1967 when it converted to Minuteman II ICBMs.

Deactivation of the 351st Missile Wing's 150 Minuteman II ICMBs began Sept. 27, 1991, when President George Bush announced his plan for peace and removed America's 450 Minuteman II missiles and strategic bombers from alert status. The unit's inactivation was completed six months ahead of schedule, saving the Air Force more than $10 million. The last Minuteman II in Missouri was removed from its launch facility May 18, 1995.

As a result of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty signed by President Bush and President Mikhail Gorbachev of the former Soviet Union, the Minuteman II silo launchers must be demolished and rendered inoperable. As part of the Air Force's cost-saving measures, equipment is salvaged from the silo prior to destruction. More than 11,400 items worth $168 million have already been recycled and returned to the Air Force's inventory. The first Minuteman II silo implosion at Whiteman AFB occurred Dec. 8, 1993.

"In the shadow of the Cold War victory, you safely and successfully accomplished the monumental task of dismantling an instrumental part of our nuclear deterrent force," said Sheila Widnall, secretary of the Air Force, in a congratulatory letter. "You met this challenge head-on, finding new and better ways of accomplishing operations, maintenance, and support activities."

"You effectively helped preserve world peace through deterrence with ever vigilant and ready ICBM forces," said Gen. Joseph W. Ashy, commander in chief, United States Space Command. "The unit is inactivating, but the legacy behind the 351st flag still lives on and will be preserved with great honor."

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