The Guamanians celebrate the liberation of the Island from occupation by the Japanese in WWII. Guam was the only US land occupied during the war.
During the occupation the inhabitants were imprisoned in concentration camps, murdered, and abused in every definition of the word, for 3 years. Many Guamanians from that era are still here and at this time of year they retell their stories of slavery and abuse. Enduring these atrocities would make some very resentful but these people instead feel a great sense of pride and patriotism. They truly "took one for the home team."
This annual celebration has instilled a sense of patriotism in younger generations that is clearly displayed at this time of year. The Boys and I went down to "Marine Corps Drive" to witness the Liberation Day Parade. People starting preparing for their spots along the parade route a full 24 hours in advance. The canopies were going up and the barbecues and beverages were tested for the big event the next day. I'm not sure how long the parade lasted, we left after 2.5 hours.
What we did see though, told the story. Line after line of young Guam men and women in every branch of the military. Army, Air-Force, Navy, Marine, Coast Guard, and National Guard. When each group marched past there was applause from the crowd and cheers went up when a family member went by.
As with all Americans their patriotism comes with a price. Since we have been here 2 of Guam's brave sons have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country in Afghanistan. While Guam suffers with the status of a territory the United States benefits and the people of Guam remain unswervingly patriotic.
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