Supporting the designation of July 21, 2024, as "Guam Liberation Day".

Government Operations and Politics
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Introduced on June 28, 2024 by James Moylan

Cosponsors

Legislation Details

  • Supports the designation of July 21, 2024, as “Guam Liberation Day.”
  • Recognizes Guam as an unincorporated U.S. territory in the Mariana Island Chain, invaded by Imperial Japanese forces in December 1941 and liberated in 1944.
  • Acknowledges the suffering and atrocities endured by the CHamoru people during the nearly 3-year Japanese occupation, including forced marches to concentration camps and forced labor.
  • Honors the courage of the CHamoru people and the loyalty they showed to the United States, including protecting surviving U.S. soldiers.
  • Notes the significant loss of life among civilians and the unknown full extent of deaths and suffering during the occupation.
  • Commemorates the tens of thousands of Americans who fought to liberate Guam, highlighting the strategic importance of the Marianas Campaign and the amphibious landing at Asan Bay on July 21, 1944.
  • Mentions the pivotal role of securing Asan Bay for the American victory and the establishment of airfields and naval facilities on Guam, which were instrumental in the Pacific theater.
  • Marks the end of the Imperial Japanese occupation of Guam on August 10, 1944, and the role of Guam in the eventual surrender of Imperial Japan 13 months later.
  • Emphasizes Guam’s strategic importance, resilience, loyalty to the United States, and the cultural identity of the island.
  • Encourages the President to issue a proclamation for the observance of Guam Liberation Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor those who fought for Guam’s freedom.

Last updated 12/17/2024