The Space & Missile Defense Symposium.

The Rocket City.

6,500 attendees.

250 agencies, businesses affiliated with the nation’s space and missile defense industry.

Military representatives from the U.S. and allies.

But one glaring absence – the U.S. Space Command. Its booth was empty.

The command, which last week reversed a planned move to Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal, was a no-show at the pre-eminent industry gathering for the nation and U.S. allies.

“It’s disappointing to see an empty booth labeled ‘United States Space Command’ at the SMD,” said U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville). “Huntsville plays a vital role in our nation’s defense, and no matter where the fight for Space Command Headquarters currently stands — I believe General Dickinson owes Huntsville the common courtesy of either showing up to the symposium as planned or sending a representative in his place.”

Organizers were told Space Command would not be able to attend because there was no one available to man its booth.