Preparing for the Unthinkable: Safe Havens in Times of Global Conflict

 

In an era where geopolitical tensions are at a high, the possibility of a global conflict is a concern that weighs heavily on the minds of many. As conservative thinkers, we prioritize national security and the safety of our citizens. It is with this in mind that we explore the concept of safe havens—places designed to protect and preserve in the event of a catastrophic war.

The first of these bastions of safety is the Raven Rock Mountain Complex. This facility, also known as “Site R,” was originally placed into standby mode in 1991 but received significant upgrades post-9/11. With 27 new fuel tanks installed in 2012, each capable of holding 20,000 gallons, and a staggering 900,000 square feet of office space, it stands ready to accommodate between 3,000 to 5,000 government employees. The complex is fortified with 34-ton blast doors and two 1,000 foot-long tunnels, ensuring its resilience against potential attacks.

Another stronghold is nestled within the Appalachian Mountains—Peters Mountain in Virginia. Disguised as an AT&T communications station, this site is part of the United States government’s continuity planning. Recent renovations totaling $67 million have prepared it to serve as a relocation site for intelligence agencies if Washington were to come under attack. Its capacity to house a few hundred people makes it a smaller, yet vital, component of our nation’s emergency infrastructure.

The Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado, headquarters of NORAD, has never been a secret. This colossal base can sustain up to a thousand individuals for a month and boasts an underground lake. Despite nearly being closed, the Obama administration revitalized the facility with a $40 million investment in state-of-the-art technology. This ‘underground city’ is equipped with five chambers, each with their own fuel and water reserves, ensuring self-sufficiency.

While these facilities are primarily intended for government operations, they underscore the importance of preparedness and the ability to maintain continuity of governance even in dire circumstances. It is a testament to American ingenuity and foresight that such places exist, ready to serve in times of utmost need.

However, it is crucial to note that these bunkers are not just relics of the Cold War era; they are active components of our national defense strategy. The Pentagon’s decision to restaff the Cheyenne Mountain Complex in 2015 after running full-scale continuity drills signifies the ongoing relevance of such facilities.

It is also worth mentioning that while these sites are designed to protect the function of government, the exclusion of family members from residing in these bases raises ethical considerations. The recent allowance for family members of Raven Rock personnel to visit for specific ceremonies is a small step toward transparency, but it also highlights the harsh reality of who can be saved in a worst-case scenario.

As conservatives, we understand the necessity of such measures, even as we hope for diplomatic solutions to international conflicts. The existence of these safe havens is a sobering reminder of the dangers we face and the lengths to which we must go to protect our nation and its values.

In conclusion, while the thought of a World War Three is a grim prospect, the United States has taken considerable steps to ensure that, should the worst happen, there are sanctuaries that will safeguard the continuity of our government and its critical functions. It is a prudent measure, one that reflects both caution and the resolve to preserve our way of life against any threat.

 

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