The Voice of America Park To Be The Home For The USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion

WARREN COUNTY, OH -- On Wednesday, the ground was broken at the Voice of America Park in West Chester for a multi-million dollar project — The USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion.

The USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion is a solemn tribute to the complexities and sacrifices of the Cold War era, a period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States that spanned from the end of World War II in 1945 to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.The pavilion will serve as both a memorial and an educational center, commemorating the USS Cincinnati (SSN-693), a Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarine that played a crucial role in the United States' naval operations during the Cold War. 

Photo used by permission of rendition of USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion.

"The project will include a full size replica of the USS Cincinnati, a nuclear powered fast attack submarine that served as part of our Cold War deterrence that brought a peaceful conclusion to the Cold War between the US and Russia without any direct conflict between the two nuclear-armed super powers," explained Bob Viney of Mason who is the Vice President & Program Executive of Submarine Cincinnati Memorial Association. 

"We will have a STEM Educational Program supported by several of our local school systems, including Indian Hill and Mason, that will ideally excite young people about pursuing STEM subjects in school and skilled trade areas, where we have great needs today. It will also be a very special gathering place for the greater Cincinnati community in coming together on national and patriotic holidays," Viney added.

Attending Wednesday's groundbreaking were Dr. Amy Brennan, Deputy Superintendent of Mason Schools and Melissa Hoin from Congressman Landsman's office who shared a video from the congressman endorsing the Memorial project. 

The USS Cincinnati was commissioned on June 10, 1978, amid a tense global backdrop as part of the U.S. Navy's fleet. The submarine was a technological marvel of its time, equipped with advanced sonar systems, torpedoes, and Tomahawk cruise missiles. Its primary mission was to patrol the oceans, gathering intelligence and maintaining a strategic deterrence against potential threats.

The USS Cincinnati served with distinction until its decommissioning on July 29, 1996. During its active years, it participated in numerous covert operations, exercises, and missions that remain classified to this day. Its crew, a group of highly trained and dedicated sailors, worked tirelessly to ensure the submarine's readiness and operational effectiveness.

The idea for the pavilion was conceived by a group of veterans, historians, and civic leaders who recognized the importance of preserving the memory of the Cold War and educating future generations about its impact. The pavilion was designed to be more than just a memorial; it was envisioned as a place of reflection, learning, and inspiration.  

Visitors will be greeted by a grand entrance featuring the sail and upper rudder of the USS Cincinnati, symbolizing the submarine's enduring presence. The structure will be built with steel and glass, materials that reflect both the strength and transparency of the peace the memorial seeks to promote. 

Inside the pavilion, a wealth of exhibits and interactive displays will provide a comprehensive overview of the Cold War. The narrative begins with the origins of the conflict, tracing the ideological divide between the United States and the Soviet Union. 

The USS Cincinnati Cold War Memorial Peace Pavilion will be a place where the past is honored, the present is informed, and the future is inspired through educational programs as school groups, families, and history enthusiasts will be able to  participate in guided tours, workshops, and lectures. The pavilion will collaborate with local schools and universities to develop curriculum materials and host events that promote critical thinking and discussion. 

To learn more about the Memorial visit www.subcincy.org. To help support the Memorial a donation can be made to the Memorial's Construction and/or Endowment Funds at https://subcincy.org/donate/.

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