What was the earth berm in the launcher area for?
Answer from “Bud” Halsey When Nike Ajax was used, they had to be fueled with very dangerous, explosive, and corrosive fuel. The possibility of accidental explosion was very real and present. The earth berm surrounded the fueling area, and in the event of an accidental explosion, it would channel the explosive force upward–not outward thereby giving others at the launch area a better chance to survive the explosion. When Nike Hercules was introduced and Nike Ajax removed, the former fueling area became the assembly and warheading area where explosive parts of Nike Hercules were assembled. Thus, the berm continued to provide protection for others at the site in the event of accidental explosion. The warheading building in Ajax times was where the missiles were assembled. In Hercules times, the warheads were placed into the missile at this spot. It was felt that the placement of warheads, particularly the nuclear ones, could be done better inside better than outside in the cold or rain.
