Today marks the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Guam from Imperial Japanese control. The nation reflects on the strength and courage of those who fought to free Guam and contribute to winning World War II.
On July 21, 1944, American forces landed on Guam's beaches to combat tyranny and restore American sovereignty in the Pacific. Despite resistance from Imperial Japanese forces, U.S. Armed Forces prevailed after three weeks of intense warfare in challenging terrains. This victory allowed America to regain control of Guam and positioned U.S. forces closer to ending the war in the Pacific.
The nation honors over 1,200 service members and more than 1,000 residents of Guam who sacrificed their lives for this cause.
"The liberation of Guam remains etched upon our Nation’s history as a bold reassertion of American sovereignty at a time when our future and our freedom were in peril," stated the President. He affirmed that under his leadership, "the United States remains committed to upholding a foreign policy of peace through strength—and we will never waver in defending our interests, our citizens, our territory, and our glorious way of life from all enemies, foreign and domestic."
