Blue Grass Chemical Activity crews kicked off the VX projectile destruction process by preparing several pallets of 155mm projectiles for delivery to the Blue Grass plant in early January.

“Our crews have been training and preparing for this day for quite a while,” said Lt. Col. Edward Williams, commander, BGCA. “Their diligence in following safety protocols and established processes ensured a safe transfer of the first load of VX projectiles to the demilitarization plant.”

The team removed the projectiles from a storage igloo on the Blue Grass Army Depot and safely placed them in Enhanced On-site Containers for transport to the destruction facility, said Williams. The chemical activity team is very familiar with the challenges of supporting two campaigns at once (both mustard-agent and GB nerve-agent destruction in 2020) and engages in comprehensive advanced planning and coordination with mission partners to ensure successful operations.

“The chemical activity has been a great partner in the chemical agent munitions destruction process,” said Bill Nieminen, munitions handling manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. “Their competence and expertise in the storage, monitoring and preparation for transport of the munitions helped make the start of VX operations go smoothly, without any issues.”

The chemical activity also supports the Blue Grass plant through activities such as testing and issuing M40 masks and providing laundry service for cotton goods. The activity will continue to support the plant throughout the destruction process.