Supporting the designation of Guam War Survivors Remembrance Day.
This House Resolution (H. Res. 545) expresses congressional support for designating a formal observance called Guam War Survivors Remembrance Day. It provides historical context for Guam during World War II—its invasion by Japanese forces in 1941, nearly three years of occupation, and the suffering endured by CHamoru survivors, including the Manenggon concentration camp and the loss of civilian lives. The resolution notes prior recognition by the United States (the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act of 2016) and reparations awarded to survivors and descendants, framing the proposed remembrance as a continuation of honoring their loyalty, resilience, and sacrifices. It also references that June 28, 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of Guam War Survivors Remembrance Day. Importantly, as a resolution, it is a non-binding, ceremonial measure that urges observance and does not create new federal programs or funding.
Key Points
- 1Designates Guam War Survivors Remembrance Day to honor CHamoru survivors who endured Japanese occupation and demonstrated loyalty to the United States.
- 2Reiterates the historical context: invasion in 1941, nearly three years of brutal occupation, prison camps (including Manenggon with about 18,000 imprisoned CHamoru people), and civilian casualties around 1,170 (about 10% of Guam’s population).
- 3Acknowledges the loyalty and sacrifices of Guam’s people, referencing the 2016 Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act and the substantial reparations awarded to survivors and descendants (over $38 million combined federally and locally).
- 4Calls on the United States to observe Guam War Survivors Remembrance Day with appropriate ceremonies and activities to honor survivors, support the living, and preserve survivors’ stories for future generations.
- 5Clarifies that the measure is ceremonial and non-binding, not creating new federal programs or spending.