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Inside Manzano

The Life of a Nuclear Special Weapons Storage Site

Charles E. Cabler

Skyhorse Publishing, New York, 2019, 324 pages

Book Review published on: July 7, 2023

Charles E. Cabler’s Inside Manzano: The Life of a Nuclear Special Weapons Storage Site is a compelling and thought-provoking book, providing a unique perspective on the world of nuclear weapons storage and security. The book focuses on the experiences of the author himself, a former Air Force officer who was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, where he worked in the Manzano Weapons Storage Area. The Manzano area was one of the largest underground nuclear storage facilities in the world, and Cabler is able to provide an intimate firsthand account of the inner workings of this secretive and highly secured environment.

Cabler’s writing style is pleasing and easy to read, and his personal anecdotes add a human touch to the complex world of nuclear weapons. At times the details he provides seem a bit redundant, but that is just a manifestation of the complex procedures and protocols required in the environment from where this book arose. Ensuring the safe storage and maintenance of these weapons requires great discipline and attention to detail. Throughout the book he grapples with the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise in the world of nuclear weapons, and he provides an intimate view on the impact that these weapons have on the world and on the people who work with them.

One theme that permeates the book is the delicate balance between keeping the weapons secure and enough transparency to build trust between nations. He raises important questions about the long-term viability and cost of relying on nuclear weapons as a deterrent. The second and more compelling theme is the human side of working with nuclear weapons. He touches on the psychological toll that this work can take on those who are involved, and he provides a moving account of the sacrifices that military personnel make in order to keep the world safe. He also addresses the broader impact that nuclear weapons have on society.

Overall, the book is well-written and thought-provoking. It provides a unique perspective on the world of nuclear weapons in storage. Both experts and casual readers will find the many included personal stories and insights from those who served at Manzano to be engaging and informative. If you are interested in the history of nuclear weapons storage in general or specifically in New Mexico, then I would highly recommend this book. I served for two years overseas in a similar role and the book brought back many fond and frustrating memories.