Visits Facility on Former Eaker Air Force Base

U.S. Senator Boozman visited the Blytheville exhibition he has introduced legislation to designate as the National Cold War Center.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) visited the Blytheville Air Force Base Exhibition, home of a comprehensive collection of material and information from the Cold War. Boozman is leading Senate efforts to designate the facility as the National Cold War Center.

“Blytheville played a vital role in America’s national security and helped safeguard the world against the threat of nuclear war. The exhibit tells that story and recognizes the men and women who were called to defend our nation at such an incredibly sensitive and precarious time. Having a dedicated tribute to them and their experiences here in Arkansas would be a tremendous asset that realizes a fitting opportunity to preserve this important part of our history,” Boozman said. “I will continue urging Congress to recognize the significance of Eaker Air Force Base, and the dedicated Americans who served there, by designating it as the National Cold War Center.”

“Preserving the memories of those who served in uniform during the Cold War is a privilege, and it’s something our entire community is dedicated to supporting in a number of ways. This center is dedicated to telling the stories behind an important time in our history while also promoting education and drawing visitors from near and far to explore our exhibits and area. We appreciate Senator Boozman’s leadership to champion Blytheville’s unique role in defending our country and his advocacy for national recognition,” Cold War Center Board of Directors Chair Mary Gay Shipley said.

In May, Boozman and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) reintroduced legislation that would confer this national recognition on the existing facility. The following month, the Senate Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks held a hearing on the bill. Similar legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives.

The former Eaker Air Force Base was home to approximately 300,000 men and women from 1942-1992 and is America’s best-preserved Strategic Air Command Alert Aircrew Facility and Nuclear Weapons Storage Area.