The pictures depict the 63rd anniversary of Guam's liberation which took 5 days beginning July 21, 1944. Guamanians are very proud of their military service, and one can understand when one learns of the history of their 3 1/2 year occupation. The Chamorros were a peaceful, gentle people and had been enjoying increased prosperity while the U.S. governed Guam and kept it as a foothold in the western Pacific. Then, after Pearl Harbor the U.S. withdrew and evacuated most of the Americans, leaving the Chamorros to defend the island. Japan invaded and occupied Guam as part of its imperial expansion. The Chamorrans hoped desperately the U.S. would come back, and when it did they were overjoyed, and liberated from a brutal existence. A song, sung here at Liberation tells it all: "Sam, Sam, my dear Uncle Sam, thanks for coming back to Guam."
In the pics you'll see Jane talking with LeAnn, who offered us a spot with her extended family to watch the 3-hour parade. Families rent space on Marine Drive, camp overnight, and cook and enjoy the parade. You'll also see that food is a big part of the event! The military (Marine Band from Okinawa) started the parade, and there were all branches of the military represented. Several floats depict the story of Guam's liberation, and life today. The floats with woven palm and helaconia (ginger) are real foliage.
It rained, which everyone agrees is a good sign, for part of the parade, but it didn't dampen the fun.
Hafa Adai from Guam
Ben and Jane
1 comment:
Sounds like a fun time was had by all - thanks for keeping us updated!
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