October 22, 1962

During the Cold War era, the Ninety-seventh Bombardment Wing at Blytheville Air Force Base (renamed Eaker Air Force Base in 1988) was placed on airborne alert when it was discovered that nuclear missile silos were being constructed in Cuba with Soviet assistance. The following day, the Strategic Air Command declared defense readiness condition (DEFCON) II for the first time in American history. Two B-52G bombers were placed on airborne alert and were ready to strike the Soviet Union with nuclear weapons if necessary. The standoff ended, and the wing returned on November 15. The wing was presented with the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for its performance during this Cold War crisis.

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