To expedite startup of the Titan II system, construction and missile site activation were accomplished in phases, beginning with earthwork and the heavy steel and concrete construction of the basic control center, blast lock, cable way and silo structures.

Next, the interior steel support and shock-resistant structures, along with mechanical, electrical, heating and air conditioning were completed, followed by the control systems that interfaced for missile activation. This phase also included the fabrication and installation of the silo closure doors and the checkout and testing of the installed systems.

As the prime construction contractor for these phases, we contended with a construction schedule impacted by a massive number of design changes and by the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Each site consisted of a silo, tunnel and control center deep underground. We oversaw construction of most of the ground support equipment, structural steel and piping at each complex. Each silo was fitted with a seventeen-inch-thick concrete tube, or launch duct. The Titan II was housed inside this steel-clad duct. A five-foot-thick concrete and steel door covered each silo.

We utilized a decentralized project office that was fully responsible for all detail engineering, office and financial functions, purchasing, scheduling, safety, labor relations and construction management. Its project organization essentially paralleled that of the Corps of Engineers to enhance coordination, communications and efficiency in project execution. We implemented a strong safety program that was followed by all trade unions and employers working on site.