The founder of Cold War Preservation, Don Bender, has been involved with the history and preservation of Cold War era military sites for over two decades. A selection of his Cold War related activities, including research, writing, public programs, television appearances and more, are briefly described below.
Montauk Air Force Station
Montauk, Long Island, New York
Activities undertaken for this site included site visits and documentation, interviews with local residents and former personnel, historical research, developing and presenting a compelling case for preservation. Public relations efforts resulted in articles in local media. The site is now listed on the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Oakdale Army Installation
Oakdale, Pennsylvania
This project included site investigations of the main base (C. E. Kelly Support Facility) and three related facilities. Historical research, photography, interviews with former personnel were part of this process. The project culminated with writing of in-depth historical context for a final architectural inventory and evaluation.
NY-NJ Nike Missile Site Survey
NYC Metro Region and New Jersey
This self-sponsored project resulted in a detailed written and photographic record of these former Nike missile sites, many of which have since been demolished. Public awareness was enhanced via articles, public programs and publicity efforts which resulted in substantial coverage including the New York Times and other major media.
Weird U.S. Television Series
The History Channel
Appearances in the pilot program for Weird U.S., a reality TV program produced for the History Channel from 2004 through 2005 included explorations of two former U.S. Army Nike anti-aircraft missile sites located in New York and New Jersey. Historical background information and video footage was provided to the producers of this engaging historical series.
Speaking Engagements
Public Programs
Over roughly a decade, a substantial number of public programs highlighting Cold War era sites in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania were developed and presented. Custom visuals created for the programs greatly enhanced the presentations and audience engagement was high. Many of these programs brought out the largest audiences ever seen for the sponsoring organizations.
Hart Island Nike Missile Site
Bronx, New York
The former missile battery on Hart Island was investigated during several visits with representatives of the City of New York which owns the island. Historic infrastructure was identified, photographed and documented. A substantial, illustrated article was written for a related, history-oriented website. Publicity activities resulted in a substantial article in the New York Times.