Cold War Conversations

The Keys to Armageddon: A Cold War Nuclear Missile Officer's Story (391)


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Jim is a former Minuteman nuclear missile officer who served in the US Air Force.

Throughout the episode, Jim shares first-hand accounts of life in the launch control centre. From evaluations to the strict checklist orientations, every aspect of his training was designed to ensure that he and his crew were prepared for the weighty responsibilities they bore.


We also discuss false alarms, intense simulations and emergency procedures, enabling you to gain a profound understanding of the pressure and seriousness of the role.


Jim also reflects on the gravity of turning the keys to launch missiles and the sobering reality of what that would mean for humanity.


Don’t miss the link to the videos and photos in the episode information here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode391



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    Cold War ConversationsBy Ian Sanders

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