In 1950, Camp Cook, later Vandenberg Air Force Base, became a crucial training ground for the 40th Infantry Division, also known as the “Sunshine Division,” as they prepared for deployment to Korea. Many of these soldiers were California National Guard troops, suddenly thrust into active duty amidst the escalating Cold War conflict. Life at Camp Cook was characterized by rigorous training exercises, including live-fire drills and simulated combat scenarios, all aimed at honing their skills for the harsh realities of the Korean War. The sprawling base provided ample space for these large-scale maneuvers, even as the division faced challenges integrating newly drafted personnel and adapting to the demands of modern warfare. Ultimately, this period at Camp Cook served as a critical phase in transforming the 40th Infantry Division into a combat-ready force, ready to face the challenges that awaited them in Korea.