Legend:
Definition
Field Listing
Rank Order
Background:
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The US annexed Wake Island in 1899 for a cable station. An important air and naval base was constructed in 1940-41. In December 1941, the island was captured by the Japanese and held until the end of World War II. In subsequent years, Wake was developed as a stopover and refueling site for military and commercial aircraft transiting the Pacific. Since 1974, the island's airstrip has been used by the US military, as well as for emergency landings. Currently, access to the atoll is restricted to official government business.
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Military - note:
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defense is the responsibility of the US; launch support facility is part of the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site (RTS) administered by US Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC)
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Disputes - international:
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claimed by Marshall Islands
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This page was last updated on 19 September, 2006
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