1. On September 19, 1942, the Alaska Highway was officially opened for public use. This highway, stretching from Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada to Delta Junction in Alaska, was built during World War II as a military supply route to Alaska. It is still an important transportation route today.
2. In 2006, on September 19, oil began flowing through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System after a brief shutdown to replace corroded supports. This pipeline, which runs over 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to the port of Valdez, is one of the largest and most complex pipeline systems in the world.
3. On September 19, 1985, an 8.0 magnitude earthquake struck near the Aleutian Islands in Alaska. Although it was a remote location, the earthquake generated a large tsunami that caused significant damage to coastal areas in Alaska and Hawaii.
4. On September 19, 1957, the first commercial jet flight landed in Anchorage, Alaska. The flight, operated by Pan American World Airways, was part of the airline's new service to Asia and Europe via Alaska.
5. September 19 is recognized as "Talk Like a Pirate Day" around the world, including in Alaska. This day is a lighthearted celebration of pirate culture and language, and includes activities such as costume contests and treasure hunts.