[1] During the early stages of World War II, General Simon Buckner commanded the defense of Alaska and was concerned they would be attacked by air.

[1][2] To protect the troops, General Buckner recommended a facility that was independent from local power plants, bomb-proof, and that had sufficient storage spaces.

[5] The Cold War triggered the United States Army Corps of Engineers to quickly build housing and recreational spaces for 1,000 soldiers moving to Whittier.

[6] This combined building had a mess hall, sleeping quarters, movie theatre, bowling alley, small jail, and tunnels connecting the town of Whittier, Alaska.

[9] A total of 13 people died in Whittier and damages to federal and privately owned land was estimated to cost over $5 million.