Manhattan Project National Historical Park Study Act

MANHATTAN PROJECT NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK STUDY ACT

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Mr. DeWINE. Mr. President, I thank my distinguished colleague, Senator BINGAMAN, for sponsoring that measure, and I appreciated the support of Senator DOMENICI and our colleagues from Tennessee and Washington.

The Manhattan Project stands as one of the great technological achievements of the 20th century. Therefore, it is appropriate to recognize the historical importance of the sites most closely associated with the development of the atomic bomb. This legislation has begun a process for the Secretary of the Interior to provide that recognition.

I want to call attention to the critical contributions made in Dayton, OH, toward the Manhattan Project, under what became known as the ``Dayton Project.'' Because the Dayton Project was shrouded in secrecy, its contribution has long been overlooked. Yet, the technological achievements of the Dayton Project were among the most important to the completion of the Manhattan Project. It was in Dayton that scientists discovered how to trigger the chain reaction that unleashed the power of the atom. To continue that effort, the Atomic Energy Commission established the Mound Laboratory in Miamisburg, just southeast of Dayton.

As my colleague explained, the act directs the Secretary of the Interior to study three specifically named sites associated with the history of the Manhattan Project. I would like to ask the distinguished Senator if there is the opportunity for sites associated with the Dayton Project to be recognized?

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