Welcome to Monument 116, a place steeped in history and a silent witness to pivotal moments of the past century. While its origins and exact purpose might remain shrouded in mystery, its significance in the broader context of American and world history is undeniable.
Monument 116 is located in the vast expanses of Alaska, a state that played an unexpected role during World War I. In 1918, as the Great War was drawing to a close, the United States, along with its Allied forces, embarked on a little-known mission in Russia. This mission, known as the Russian Expedition, aimed to protect war supplies and assist Allied prisoners amidst the chaotic Russian Revolution. American soldiers, including the 310th Engineer Battalion, found themselves in the harsh climates of northern Russia and Siberia, constructing blockhouses and maintaining railroads crucial for the mission.
The engineers’ work in these unforgiving conditions was vital, not only for their immediate military objectives but also for the future geopolitical landscape. The presence of American troops on Russian soil left a lasting impression on the Soviet leadership, influencing Cold War dynamics decades later.
Monument 116 stands as a tribute to these brave engineers and soldiers who endured the Siberian winter, symbolizing the intricate and often forgotten ties between the United States and Russia. Though the events might have faded from popular memory, the monument ensures that the sacrifices and strategic moves of that era are not lost to history.
As you stand here, imagine the stories captured in the photographs of the 310th Engineers, their faces etched with determination and resilience. Picture the log blockhouses they constructed, each log carefully placed to withstand both the enemy and the elements.
While the monument itself may not boast grand architecture or elaborate inscriptions, it serves as a poignant reminder of a complex chapter in history. It invites us to reflect on the interconnectedness of past events and their lasting impact on our present world.
