Missile Site Park Exhibit Highlights Cold War History and Upcoming Events

Visitors to Greeley can explore the historical significance of the Cold War era at the Missile Site Park, which features an exhibit on the Atlas missile program. The exhibit, open until December, highlights the local missile site situated between Greeley and Windsor, which was operational from 1961 to 1965. Notably, no missile was ever launched from this site, but it was on standby during the Cuban Missile Crisis, fully fueled for six days—a chilling reminder of the tensions of that time.

The park, managed by Weld County since 1972, offers a glimpse into the rapid technological advancements of the era, transitioning from Atlas missiles to the next generation of intercontinental ballistic missiles, the Titan and Titan 2. While the missile silo itself is not open for tours, the park remains a beautiful space for exploration.

The exhibit is available for viewing Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Additionally, two special events are scheduled: a presentation by Air Force veteran Jim Widler on August 9, discussing his experiences as an Atlas missile mechanic, and a Veterans Day event on November 8, featuring a panel of local Cold War veterans sharing their service stories. Both events are free and open to the public, though space is limited. This initiative not only educates the community about its historical military significance but also honors the contributions of veterans.