The transfer of Fort Vancouver’s East and South barracks from the U.S. Army to the National Park Service is a historic moment for the city of Vancouver and our country. The “Post to Park” celebration at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site marks the official transfer of one of the longest operating Army barracks on the West Coast.
The National Park Service’s nearly 100-year history of preserving, and interpreting America’s treasures would greatly benefit the management of these historic structures. Its proximity to Vancouver and Portland provides new opportunities to connect Northwest residents and visitors alike to our shared heritage.
Communities across the country recognize that National Park Service management of places such as Valles Caldera National Preserve in New Mexico and the Hanford B reactor in Richland, Wash., as a historic monument will bring added prestige, improved economic opportunity, and more stable funding.
Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, the Army, and Vancouver city officials are to be commended for their steadfast support of expanding Fort Vancouver. Working together, we can ensure the places that tell our American story are preserved and protected for the future.
