During the COVID-19 pandemic, countries worldwide had to take exceptional measures to maintain their essential functions. The United States was no exception and decided to use the Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station as a strategic isolation site for critical military personnel. This included Air Force General Terrence O’Shaughnessy, who is the head of U.S. Northern Command and NORAD. This decision ensured the continuity of critical military operations during the pandemic.
In response to the worsening pandemic crisis, President Donald J. Trump activated the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act). This allowed the federal government to support state and local governments in their efforts to fight the pandemic. The Stafford Act was invoked to supplement the existing efforts of state and local governments, enabling the federal government to assist them in combatting the pandemic.
Cheyenne Mountain is often associated with national defense and the Cold War era. Recently, it once again became a symbol of security as it was chosen as an ideal location for isolation from the pandemic. This facility was designed to withstand a nuclear attack, making it an excellent choice for relocating part of the U.S. Army’s Northern Command to the bunker. General O’Shaughnessy and his team moved to Cheyenne Mountain to ensure they could continue to monitor and defend the homeland from the threat of the virus.
The decision to relocate demonstrated the military command teams’ commitment. General O’Shaughnessy emphasized the sacrifices of the NORAD and NORTHCOM command and control watch teams. They left their homes and families to isolate themselves completely, which enabled them to stand watch every day and maintain a careful defense of the country’s security.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the military strategically decided to use Cheyenne Mountain. This decision shows their dedication to homeland security, even in difficult times. It also reminds us of the importance of being adaptable and resilient during crises so that essential functions and protection of the homeland can continue without interruption.
However, there may have been more to the lockdowns than meets the eye. Stay tuned for future reports from Sqauk.
