Atka Island facts for kids

Atka Island is a large island in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, United States. It is the biggest island in the Andreanof Islands group. The island is about 50 miles (80 km) east of Adak Island. It stretches about 65 miles (105 km) long and is between 2 to 20 miles (3 to 32 km) wide. With a land area of 404.6 square miles (1,048 km²), Atka Island is the 22nd largest island in the United States. The small city of Atka, Alaska is located on the eastern side of the island. In 2000, about 95 people lived on Atka Island, mostly in the city of Atka.

About Atka Island

Island Features

Atka Island is known for its natural beauty. In the northeast part of the island, you can find the Korovin volcano. This volcano reaches a height of 5,030 feet (1,533 meters). It is a significant landmark on the island. A smaller island called Oglodak Island is located about 3.4 miles (5.5 km) off Cape Kigun. Cape Kigun is the westernmost point of Atka Island.

History and Protection

Atka Island has an important place in history, especially related to World War II. On December 5, 2008, the President of the United States, George W. Bush, created the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. This monument protects important sites from the war. A crashed B-24 Liberator airplane on Atka Island is one of the nine sites included in this monument. This helps remember the bravery and sacrifices made during the war.

Education on Atka

The children on Atka Island are served by the Aleutian Region Schools. The main school is called the Yakov E. Netsvetov School. It provides education for students from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade. This school is very important for the community on the island.

Images for kids

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  Atka village in winter

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  Atka Island reindeer and World War II aircraft

See also

In Spanish: Isla Atka para niños