Dutch Harbor Remembrance Day
June 3rd is Dutch Harbor Remembrance Day in Alaska. 70 Years ago this weekend, the first hostile action by the Japanese on Alaskan soil took place in Dutch Harbor.
The Aleutian Island Campaign started on June 3, 1942 when the Japanese bombed Dutch Harbor. This battle is not remembered by many Americans as it was overshadowed by Guadalcanal, which took place simultaneously. While the Japanese were not able to gain advantage on Dutch Harbor, they did occupy Attu and Kiska - the only US soil to be occupied in World War II.
On May 24, 2012, Alaska Governor Sean Parnell issued a proclamation asking 'all Alaskans to join with the people of Dutch Harbor in honor and remembrance of all that was lost in defense of the Aleutian Islands in World War II.'
Read Governor Parnell's Proclamation
Photo courtesy of US Park Service - Dutch Harbor Attack - June 3, 2942
There are still plenty of reminders around Unalaska port of Dutch Harbor of the military presence; however, most of the structures of Fort Mears have been removed (and replaced primarily with fishing industry support structures).
Photo courtesy of US Park Service - Dutch Harbor Attack - June 3, 1942
For more information on the Battle of Dutch Harbor and the Forgotten War, please visit the links below:
And of course, if you're in Dutch Harbor, be sure to visit the Aleutian World War II Museum, next to the Tom Madsen Airport
And finally, our Raven House is a re-purposed WWII military structure that has served us well on Haystack Hill (still standing strong and looking good 70 plus years later!)
Fishermen's Finest joins Governor Parnell in honor and remembrance of all that was lost in defense of the Aleutian Islands in World War II.