Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United States marks the 82nd anniversary of the liberation of Guam, commemorating a pivotal victory in World War II. Guam endured over two years of harsh occupation by Imperial Japan, which began shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor and led to rapid Japanese control of the island.
According to a presidential message, the American counterattack began on July 21, 1944, when nearly 55,000 Marines, Sailors, and soldiers landed on Guam after extensive aerial and naval bombardment. U.S. forces encountered strong resistance from the entrenched Japanese garrison across mountainous and jungle terrain.
Organized Japanese resistance ended on August 10, 1944, restoring American sovereignty. The campaign resulted in significant casualties: more than 1,200 American servicemembers and over 1,000 native Guamanians were killed or died of wounds during the conflict.
The statement highlights Guam's ongoing strategic importance for U.S. power projection in the Pacific and defense of its allies. It also honors the resilience of the island's people and the sacrifice of the Greatest Generation who secured its liberation.
Reaffirming U.S. commitment, the message declares that Guam's freedom will always be protected and the sacrifices of those who fought there will be enduringly honored.