Fort Raymond (Alaska) facts for kids
Fort Raymond was an important U.S. Army base built in Seward, Alaska in 1942. It was named after Charles W. Raymond, a captain in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This fort was very large, with over 3,000 soldiers at one time. Its main job was to protect the docks and railroad in Seward. These transportation spots were super important for moving military supplies all over Alaska. Ships brought supplies to Seward, and then the Alaska Railroad carried them to Anchorage and other parts of Alaska.
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Why Fort Raymond Was Built
Fort Raymond was built during World War II. Its main purpose was to keep the important port and railway safe. These were key for sending supplies and equipment to other military bases. Without them, it would have been much harder to support troops in Alaska.
Protecting Alaska's Lifeline
The docks and railroad in Seward were like a lifeline for military operations. They helped move everything needed for the war effort. Fort Raymond had soldiers, coastal guns, and anti-aircraft weapons. These were all there to defend against possible attacks.
Why Fort Raymond Closed
Fort Raymond became less important after 1943. This was because Japanese forces in the Aleutian Islands were defeated. This greatly reduced the risk of an attack on Alaska.
New Port in Whittier
Another reason for the fort's reduced importance was the new deep-water port. This port was built in Whittier, Alaska. Whittier was much closer to Anchorage. This made it a better place to bring in supplies.
Soldiers as Workers
Sometimes, the soldiers stationed at Fort Raymond helped out. They worked as stevedores, which means they helped load and unload ships. This shows how important their role was in supporting the supply chain.
What Happened After Fort Raymond Closed
Fort Raymond officially closed in 1945. But parts of it were still used.
Hospital and Airfield
The fort's hospital was given to the Territory of Alaska. It became a special hospital for people with tuberculosis. It stayed open until 1957. The airfield that was part of the fort also remained. It became Walseth Air Force Base in 1947. This was after the U.S. Air Force became its own military branch. However, Walseth Air Force Base closed just one year later, in 1948.
