Army to host ceremony deactivating Pueblo Chemical Depot

(PUEBLO, Colo.) — The U.S. Army will be holding a ceremony to mark the deactivation of the Pueblo Chemical Depot with a casing of the colors marking the final chapter of its 82-year presence in Pueblo on Thursday, Sept. 12.

The Pueblo Chemical Depot has worked to destroy its supply of chemical weapons in accordance with the Chemical Weapons Convention ratified in 1997. On June 22, 2023, the final round was destroyed and the facility began the process of closing down which is expected to take about three years.

“We don’t see this as a somber event, rather a milestone achievement,” said Colonel Rodney McCutcheon, the depot’s 40th and final commander.

Col. McCutcheon emphasized the depot’s completion of its mission to safely secure, store, and protect the 2,613 tons of mustard agent once housed at the depot.

“For more than three decades, the [Pueblo Chemical Depot] team has strived to make good on the noble cause of ridding the U.S. of chemical weapons. The milestone signals the Nation’s commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention, while successfully protecting our personnel, the surrounding community, and the environment,” he said.

The Army said in the decades of operation, the depot has not recorded a serious injury or fatality. The Army also said the depot had a flawless environmental record, with no major environmental incidents, mishaps, or failures.

After the completion of its mission, the Army started a reduction of force and placed a specialized transition office into effect, helping employees find jobs or retirement services. Earlier this year 251 employees were identified as needing services, which the Army said as of Aug. 20, only seven remain for placement.

Col. McCutcheon will preside over the ceremony on Thursday with elected officials, depot alumni, and community members expected to attend.

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