Alascom, Inc.

The White Alice Communications System (WACS) was developed in the early 1950s as part of a North American over-the-pole defense system. The system was created because of problems in using the VHF communications with the Aircraft Control and Warning System (AC & W). It linked the AC & W and the Distant Early Warning System sites with other bases and the North American Defense Command. The construction contract was awarded to the Western Electric Company in 1955. The Boswell Bay Station was activated in 1956. The system was eventually rendered obsolete by the development of new technology. In 1967, Congress provided for the transfer of the facilities to non-government ownership. In 1970, RCA Alaska Communications, Inc. (now Alascom) acquired the system.