Fort Hancock, situated on Sandy Hook in New Jersey, rose to prominence in the late 19th century as a vital coastal defense installation tasked with safeguarding the entrance to New York Harbor. Established in 1895, the fortification played a crucial role in the defense strategy of the United States, particularly during times of conflict like World War I and World War II. Its strategic location and advanced coastal artillery systems made it a formidable stronghold. However, with advancements in military technology and changes in defense priorities, Fort Hancock's significance diminished over time. By the mid-20th century, its role as a frontline defense post waned, leading to its eventual decommissioning in 1974. Despite its fall from military prominence, Fort Hancock remains a testament to the nation's coastal defense history, now preserved as part of the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.