STATEMENT OF ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR INSULAR AREAS ESTHER P. KIA‘AINA ON THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LIBERATION OF GUAM

Washington, D.C. - The Department of the Interior’s Assistant Secretary for Insular
Areas, Esther P. Kia‘aina issued the following statement commemorating the 70th
Anniversary of the Liberation of Guam:

“As we commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Liberation of Guam, another year has passed in which 
we remember and honor the bravery and sacrifice of those American forces who landed on Guam’s 
shores to restore freedom to the people of Guam and the lives lost in that quest.

We also remember and honor the resiliency of the people of Guam who not only endured the years and 
suffering of the occupation, but remain steadfast and vibrant as a people for whom the memories and 
experiences of the survivors and those who perished will never be forgotten.

Commemorations such as these afford us the opportunity to reflect on the past, remember and learn 
from the experience, celebrate life today, and plan for a sustainable future. During this time, let 
us also not forget the lessons learned about valor, humanity, peace, and forgiveness.”

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