The Rockets and Missiles of White Sands Proving Ground: 1945-1958

In 1945, the United States Army established a testing center for rockets
and guided missiles in south-central New Mexico. Named White Sands
Proving Ground, this center was the locale for many of America s first
steps towards space. Rockets and Missiles of White Sands Proving
Ground chronicles major activities at the base from 1945-1958. During
this period, the Army, Navy, and Air Force all tested missiles at the
desert installation. This book details the development and testing for
such missiles as Hermes, Corporal, Nike Ajax, Sergeant, Honest John,
and Viking. These missiles formed the backbone of much of America s
arsenal during the Cold War and represented major technological
advancements. In 1958, the White Sands Proving Ground became the
White Sands Missile Range, as it is known today.