2019-01-18 01:34:05
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SITE Get a firsthand look at once classified nuclear missile sites that are now preserved as a national park. The deadly drama underlying the Cold War is relived at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, located near Wall. While here, visitors can see how the end of the world could have begun. The collection of sites comprises the fist national park in the world that is dedicated to commemorating the events of the Cold War. Two 1960s era Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) systems have been preserved for public viewing. Delta-09 is an underground missile silo on the edge of Badlands National Park. It kept a Minuteman II missile at alert that could send a nuclear weapon to the Soviet Union in just 30 minutes. The Delta-01 control center includes the topside support building and the underground control center. These formerly restricted sites are now open to visitors. Walk to the gate of the Delta-01 compound and peek through the fence at the secure compound that once controlled 10 nuclear missiles. Go inside the gate and underground with a ranger-guided control center tour. These tours are by advanced reservation only and are limited to six people per tour. The tour lasts 45 minutes and begins and ends at the entry gate to the Delta-01 compound. The visitor center is located off I-90 at Exit 131 and features a bookstore, exhibits and a film that allows visitors to explore the Minuteman’s role in the Cold War. All tours of the Delta-01 Launch Control Facility require advanced reservations and an amenity fee. To make a reservation, call 1-866- 601-5129 or visit nps.gov/mimi. Self-guided tours are available at Delta-01 and the Delta-09 missile silo. At Delta-09, located off I-90 at Exit 116, visitors can walk inside the fence and gaze through a glass enclosure to see an unarmed Minuteman II missile standing at the ready in the 80-foot deep launch tube, just as it was during the Cold War.
©South-Dakota. View All Articles.