Alaska

**Military History of Alaska** Alaska’s military significance began with its purchase from Russia in 1867, providing the United States with a strategic northern outpost. During World War II, Alaska played a crucial role as the site of the Aleutian Islands Campaign, where U.S. forces repelled Japanese invasions, marking the only WWII battles fought on American soil. In the Cold War, Alaska’s location made it vital for early warning systems and air defense against potential Soviet attacks, leading to the establishment of major bases such as Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and Eielson Air Force Base. Today, Alaska remains a key military hub for Arctic operations, missile defense, and joint-force readiness for U.S. and allied forces.