Standing Watch

Introduction

This is the entry that appeared in the 567SMS Guestbook and Bulletin Board  on 12/29/04 
" I'm putting together an article for the Clayton Historical Society regarding Deer Park's Atlas E base. We intend to publish this article in the Deer Park Tribune. I've talked to Dick Mellor ... a very knowledgeable gentleman ... but would also like to contact any others who feel they might be able to answer my growing list of technical questions, or have suggestions regarding to whom I might forward such questions. For example: It's my understanding that the rupture of the membrane between the upper and lower tanks of the Atlas would result in the destruction of the missile ... but what exactly would be occurring here? Are we looking at a spontaneous detonation, or are we looking at an outer hull rupture due to increased vapor pressure from the liquid oxygen being allowed to mix into the warmer (I'm assuming) fuel? As you can see, it's dangerous for me to allow my imagination free run. Any help with this, and an encyclopedia of other questions, would be greatly appreciated."
Wally Lee Parker

Several members of the 567th SMS responded to Wally 's request. For over 15 months Wally worked with those members and others. He  recognizes these contributions in the acknowledgments section. The end result is our history, preserved by the Clayton Historical Society and is published here. Thank you Wally for all your efforts.