About this Unit
Camp McAlester, located near McAlester, Oklahoma, was established during World War II as a key military installation. Originally constructed in 1942, the camp served as a vital training and support facility for U.S. Army troops, particularly in artillery and munitions handling due to its proximity to the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant. Throughout the war, thousands of soldiers passed through Camp McAlester, contributing to the war effort both at home and abroad. After the war, the camp's role diminished, with much of its operations consolidated into the adjacent ammunition plant, which continues to play a significant role in U.S. military logistics today.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: Camp McAlester, located near McAlester, Oklahoma, was established during World War II as a key Army ammunition depot, supporting U.S. and Allied forces with critical munitions supply.
• McAlester Army Ammunition Plant: The camp is closely associated with the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant (MCAAP), which remains one of the U.S. military’s largest munitions production and storage facilities.
• POW Camp: During WWII, Camp McAlester also served as a prisoner-of-war camp, housing hundreds of German and Italian POWs who worked on local farms and in the depot.
• Economic Impact: The establishment of the camp and ammunition plant transformed McAlester into a booming wartime economy, providing thousands of jobs and shaping the region’s development.
• Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the site was upgraded to store and maintain nuclear and conventional munitions, making it a vital strategic asset for U.S. national defense.
• Specialized Munitions: Camp McAlester became known for producing a wide variety of specialized munitions, including bombs, artillery shells, and missile warheads used in major conflicts from Korea to Iraq.
• Environmental Stewardship: The site has been recognized for its efforts in environmental remediation and stewardship, balancing military readiness with conservation efforts.
• Logistical Hub: McAlester’s central location and extensive rail connections made it a crucial logistical hub for shipping munitions across the United States by rail and truck.
• Heritage and Memorials: The camp and plant host memorials honoring workers and service members who contributed to America’s war efforts, including those who lost their lives in accidents and wartime service.
• Modern Operations: Today, the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant continues to serve as a major employer in Oklahoma and plays a central role in U.S. munitions production, storage, and demilitarization.
