Alaska Territorial Guard

German and Japanese imperialism were the main causes of World War II.  When Japan began building its territory the U.S. Army was alarmed.  When the Japanese raided and occupied parts of Alaska the U.S Army responded with the development of the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG). The goal of the ATG was to be the “eyes and ears” of the U.S. Army during a very tenuous time.  The ATG recruited six thousand three hundred unpaid volunteers.  They trekked hundreds of miles across western Alaska.  These Alaskan Natives' contribution to the war effort in 1941 was valuable and brave.  They were prepared to defend their homeland and deserve more recognition.