Guam and the heritage of World War sites

Guam, apart from being the tourists’ paradise with beaches, mountains, plateau and an array of sightseeing spots, is also home to more than a dozen World War II sites. Each site offers a new unique perspective on the war, fought between 1939 and 1945. Many sites are accessible only on foot via hiking trails, so if you are game for this adventure, make sure you are prepared with suitable clothing, footwear, sunscreen, and water. And of course, a camera can be one of the best ways to capture history, allowing you to share this special part of your vacation for years to come.

Historical Background: Although Guam politically belongs the United States who have a significant military presence, it has not always been an American stronghold. With this island located about 900 miles of equator in western pacific, Guam became very valuable to both the Axis and Allied powers during the World War II. Thus, Guam played a pivotal role in the war and remains a great place to explore history firsthand. The island has been a possession of the United States since 1898, except for a brief period beginning when the Japanese seized control in December 1941. But in July 1944, U.S. Marines landed on both sides of Guam, and by early August their counterattacks had taken a serious toll on Japanese troops, solidifying the U.S. forces’ trek to victory.

Guam offers a view of diverse war memorial sites and these include underwater shipwrecks, weapons shelters intact as well as the sites of Tinta and Faha massacre, where you can pay your respects to nearly 50 Chamorro men and women who laid down their lives in War. Another very important memorial is the South Pacific Memorial Peace Park, which was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the closing days of World War II. The park was set aside in memory of the more than half million Japanese soldiers as well as American soldiers and local people who lost their lives in the Pacific War between 1941 and 1945. A 15 meter-high tower is a representation of hands praying for eternal peace, symbolizing the effort of two nations to promote universal peace. When in Guam, choose Days Inn Guam as your preferred accommodation to have a happy and memorable stay.