Stories From the 1979 Alaska Ranger Task Force

"We were sent to Alaska to show the flag, explain why we were there, and make sure nobody got hurt. None of that was guaranteed."

Notable Moments

[00:04:26] Why the Alaska Ranger Task Force was formed
[00:06:12] Establishing a ranger presence across 60 million acres
[00:10:05] Hostility toward rangers on the ground
[00:19:25] Aircraft sabotage and safety risks
[00:24:22] Plane burned during task force operations
[00:31:10] Defusing a tense confrontation in McCarthy
[00:39:36] A landmark game case in Gates of the Arctic
[00:46:53] Defining success: restraint and leadership

Walt Dabney recounts his experiences as part of the 1979 Alaska Ranger Task Force, a small group sent to establish a National Park Service presence following the proclamation of new national monuments. He shares stories of isolation, hostility, restraint, and leadership during a pivotal moment in public lands history.

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Resources

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