(JUNEAU) - A new law setting aside every October 18 in the Last Frontier as Alaska Territorial Guard Day was signed into law by Governor Frank Murkowski.

The Alaska Territorial Guard was formed in the early days of World War II and the majority of its members were Alaska Natives. ATG members worked in unison with the U.S. Army patrolling Alaska's remote coastline to watch for any further Japanese attacks.

Sen. Charlie Huggins (R - Rural Mat-Su/Chugiak) sponsored the bill creating Alaska Territorial Guard Day. "Alaska has always paid tribute to the men and women who served our country. ATG members were always respected but not always recognized for their service. That changes this October 18 when communities and veterans groups will pay their respects to the Alaska Territorial Guard members that served with distinction," said Sen. Huggins.

Today only about 300 ATG members are still with us. One of them is Rep. Carl Moses (D - Unalaska). Rep. Moses joined up when he was 13 years old. He was awarded an Alaska Territorial Guard Medal earlier this year by Sen. Huggins during a special ceremony in the state Capitol Building.

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