20250706 81st Mañenggon 28.jpg

Guam World War II survivors join their descendants, local leaders led by Acting Gov. Josh Tenorio and others during the 81st Mañenggon memorial ceremony held at the WWII memorial site in Yona on July 6, 2025. The event included retracing portions of the route of the WWII march to the Manenggon concentration camp in 1944.

Speaker Frank F. Blas Jr. seeks to rename Route 6 the “World War II Survivors Memorial Highway,” as part of efforts to honor the enduring strength and sacrifices of those who lived through the war.

Route 6, which passes through Nimitz Hill and leads towards areas of historic and strategic military importance, played a key role during and after the liberation of Guam in 1944.

The road remains a vital artery today, not only for transportation but as a pathway connecting key historical and cultural landmarks, the speaker said in introducing Bill 170-38.

“Bill 170-38 is more than a designation—it is a tribute,” Blas said in a statement. “This legislation recognizes the men, women, and children of Guam who lived through the atrocities of World War II, many of whom endured unimaginable hardship, suffering, and loss. Their courage and resilience deserve lasting recognition.”

The speaker said naming Route 6 the World War II Survivors Memorial Highway serves as a solemn reminder of Guam’s wartime experience and the resilience of its people under Japanese occupation.

“This designation ensures that every person who travels this highway remembers the legacy of survival, sacrifice, and hope,” he said. “It also reaffirms our collective responsibility to preserve and share the history of our survivors with future generations.”

If enacted, the bill will authorize the installation of commemorative signage in collaboration with the Department of Public Works. It will also encourage educational efforts to highlight the experiences of Guam’s war survivors, especially during the observance of Liberation Day and other historical commemorations.

(4) comments

johnr1

Blas, most of the signs now aren’t visible due to lazy public works crews not doing their jobs. And, this isn’t your first liberation as senator….why now? Get a real job Blas.

Mathew P

What future do you have with MAGA that collectively all of you in the 38th have sold your soul to?

MiaJisis

No doubt this bill will help your most needful constituents...once they've lost their Medicaid coverage, their Meals on Wheels, Medicare, Headstart, VA benefits...they can still ride along this street and recall how helpful you were... No one who depends on programs or actually cares about our communities should vote for any Republican. Get these oligarch worshippers out.

Alan SN

Para minus na hinanao, tolaika todu !!!

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