SR-71 Blackbird operations: The untold story

Two large NATO exercises, called Cold Fire and Teamwork were scheduled in September 1976. Headquarters European Command was keen on having the SR-71A participate in its land, sea and air exercises, as it would demonstrate positive US resolve in support of NATO.  My Reconnaissance Systems Officer (RSO), Capt Don Emmons, and I flew to RAF Mildenhall, Suffolk in a KC-135Q tanker as part of the advance party, to set up operations and recover the SR-71A being ferried to Mildenhall. The crew of Captains Al Cirino (pilot) and Bruce Liebman (RSO) flew the ’plane from Beale AFB, California to Mildenhall, taking off on September 2 in SR-71A tail number 61-7962.  En route they encountered engine problems diverting into Goose Bay, Labrador.  Repairs were made though arrival into Mildenhall was delayed by four days.