While you may not have visited the SF-88 Nike Missile Site in California, you likely recall the Cold War years. Between 1953 and 1979, the U.S. Army built and operated nearly 300 Nike missile sites across the nation. These sites were the last line of defense against Soviet bombers carrying H-bombs that had evaded the Air Force’s interceptors. SF-88 in the Marin Headlands was one such site.
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area and a dedicated group of volunteers work together to preserve it. Their aim is to help visitors understand the physical and psychological impact of the Cold War on the American landscape. But now, another kind of war is going on—the war by vandals.
Vandals hit Nike missile site
The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking information from the public to help identify those responsible for recent vandalism and forced entry into the historic SF-88 Nike Missile Site at Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The incident occurred sometime between the evening of Saturday, March 15, and the morning of Wednesday, March 19, 2025. An individual or individuals broke into the historic Nike Missile Site magazine in the Marin Headlands and committed extensive vandalism. This included spray painting hate speech throughout the building and spilling gallons of hazardous chemicals. The individual(s) may have sustained chemical burns and may have needed medical attention.
Investigators need your help
Information from visitors is often very helpful to investigators. If you took photographs or videos in the area of Battery Alexander or the actual site between the night of March 15 and the morning of March 19, or if you have any other information that could help, please submit a tip. Informants may remain anonymous. Submit a tip here:
- CALL or TEXT the NPS-wide Tip Line: 888-653-0009
- ONLINE form: go.nps.gov/SubmitATip
- EMAIL: nps_isb@nps.gov
Learn more about the SF-88 Nike Missile Site here.
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##RVT1202b
Thank you, Russ and Tina! Guess this was some sort of protest. Seems rare for someone to disagree with something in a humane and civilized manner while using their “inside” voice. More is the pity. Hopefully the clean-up can be done cheaply and well. Have a great day and safe travels!