Ohio House Honors Cavanaugh for Work at WPAFB

COLUMBUS – State lawmakers are honoring a military leader whose innovative work left a legacy and continues to benefit our nation’s security and research at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.

The Ohio House of Representatives on Wednesday approved legislation recommending that Col. William J. Cavanaugh be recognized for his contribution to the design and architecture of the Bio Acoustics Laboratory at WPAFB. 

“Col. Cavanaugh’s innovative work played an important role in advancing research at Wright Patterson. As we look for new ways to protect and expand the missions at Wright-Patt, it is important to recognize the individuals who have been on the cutting edge of research and development in service of our national defense,” said State Representative Brian Lampton (R-Beavercreek), a joint sponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 32.

In 1955, Col. Cavanaugh was a leader in the design and construction of the AFRL Bio Acoustics Laboratory. This facility is used to study battlefield acoustics and develop new technology in an environment without echoes and of near silence.

The anechoic chamber designed by Col. Cavanaugh allowed important research to be conducted in an environment of near-absolute silence. This space is one of the quietest rooms in the world.

The measure will now head to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.