6 May 1962 – In the only missile test with a “Live” warhead, the USS Ethan Allen (SSBN 608) launches a Polaris on this date during Operation “Frigate Bird”. It was not the only warhead expended that day; others were included from various platforms to simulate an actual nuclear war. Reportedly the Navy and Department of Defense were pleased with the accuracy, describing the Polaris as placing it right in the ‘pickle barrel’.
© Gregg Smith
Know a Subvet in East Idaho? Please share with them
Follow us on Facebook Sub vets of East Idaho