Welcome to the Naval Ammunition Depot Historical Marker in Hastings, Nebraska, a site that played a pivotal role in American history during World War II. Established in 1942, the Naval Ammunition Depot (NAD) in Hastings was the largest of its kind in the United States. It spanned an impressive 48,000 acres and was strategically located here due to its central position in the country, away from coastal threats.
The depot was constructed in response to the burgeoning demands of World War II, a time when the United States needed efficient and expansive facilities to produce and store munitions. At its peak, the depot employed over 10,000 workers, a significant number of whom were women, reflecting the era’s pivotal shift in gender roles within the workforce. These workers were responsible for producing a wide array of ammunition, from bombs to naval artillery shells, which were crucial to the Allied war effort.
One notable figure associated with the depot was Rear Admiral William R. Furlong, who oversaw much of the Navy’s ordnance operations during the war. His leadership ensured that the depot not only maintained high production standards but also adhered to safety protocols, essential given the volatile nature of its operations.
The depot’s presence transformed Hastings, causing its population to swell from 15,000 to 23,000 almost overnight, which led to housing shortages and rapid urban development. The influx of workers and their families also brought cultural and demographic shifts to Hastings, which have had lasting impacts on the community.
After World War II, the depot continued operations until 1966, adapting to peacetime needs before it was eventually decommissioned. Today, the site is marked by this historical marker, reminding passersby of its crucial role in the nation’s history.
As you reflect on this site, imagine the hustle and bustle of a wartime factory town, the round-the-clock operations, and the dedication of those who worked tirelessly to support the war effort. The Naval Ammunition Depot was more than a military facility; it was a community, a symbol of American industrial might, and a testament to the collective effort that helped shape the outcome of World War II.
