ABOUT Camp McAlester OK
- 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.