Today, our Nation marks the 82nd anniversary of the American liberation of Guam—the day the United States shattered a brutal occupation and carried freedom back to an island that had endured more than 2 years of suffering under Imperial Japan.  That hard-won triumph stands among the defining victories of the Second World War and endures as a testament to the courage and indomitable spirit of the United States Armed Forces.

A critical territory for the United States, Guam came under intense bombardment within hours of the horrific attack on Pearl Harbor and fell to Imperial Japanese forces 2 days later.  For more than 2 years, the people of Guam endured unspeakable atrocities at the hands of enemy forces, including forced labor, starvation, imprisonment, and persecution, and still they refused to surrender their hope of deliverance.  The reign of tyranny began to crumble on the morning of July 21, 1944, when, after weeks of relentless aerial and naval bombardment from a mighty fleet of battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, nearly 55,000 Marines, Sailors, and soldiers stormed ashore to reclaim the island and plant the Stars and Stripes upon its peaks.  

Our joint fighting force encountered fierce resistance and brutal counterattacks from fortified positions in the steep, mountainous terrain and dense jungle.  Yet, the Japanese garrison was decisively crushed by the bravery and unmatched resolve of our Nation’s warriors.  On August 10, only 21 days after the amphibious assault began, organized resistance was broken and American sovereignty over the island was restored.  That victory was decisive, but it was won at a grievous cost—with more than 1,200 Americans killed in action or lost to their wounds and over 1,000 people native to Guam numbered among the fallen.  

On this day, we honor the resilience, unity, and rich heritage of the people of Guam, and we pay solemn tribute to the men of the Greatest Generation whose gallantry and supreme sacrifice assured Guam’s rebirth of liberty.  This beautiful island territory bore witness to one of the most glorious victories of the Second World War, and it remains indispensable to the projection of American power across the Pacific and to the defense of our allies and our great Republic.  Under my leadership, the freedom won upon that sacred ground will always be defended, the sacrifice of those who secured it will forever be honored, and the United States will stand tall and unyielding as the greatest and most powerful force for freedom the world has ever known.