As the specter of a second world war grew, so did Bangor's strategic importance in eastern Maine. National Draft Day saw 3,157 local men register to serve, and the city built up its Dow Field as the nation braced for war. Nearly 6,000 servicemen and women called Dow their home base throughout World War II. Organizations like the local Soldiers Welfare Council and the USO welcomed the troops even as women stepped into roles vacated by enlisted men and worked tirelessly to keep up the community's patriotic spirit. Bangor and its world-class air base stood strong at home as its native sons fought valiantly on the warfront.