(Image courtesy of Guam Governor’s Office, Mayor Council of Guam)
Guam Liberation Day, July 21, is the Guam’s most important holiday aside from Discovery Day (the first Monday in March). The holiday commemorates the U.S. military liberating the island from Japanese occupation on July 21, 1944.
With this year’s theme of “Fanohge CHamoru,” or “Stand ye Guamanians,” the 81st liberation celebration pays tribute to the unshakable spirit of Guamanians in the past, and it also calls on the current islanders to rise united, proud and strong for future endeavors.
“Fanohge CHamoru” is the name of the Guam Hymn and its powerful opening line.
“As we prepare to celebrate the 81st anniversary of our island’s liberation, we do so under a banner that calls on us to rise united, proud, and strong,” said Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. “Fanohge CHamoru is not only a reflection of our past but a commitment to our future.”
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(Photo courtesy of Andersen Air Force Base)
(Photo courtesy of Guam Governor’s Office, Mayor Council of Guam)
The 2025 celebration also marks the 75th anniversary of the Organic Act of Guam, which granted American citizenship to Guam residents and laid the foundation for self-governance. “Guam’s Liberation and the passage of the Organic Act are key pillars in our history,” said Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio.
To celebrate one of the most important holidays, many cultural and religious events, including mass, memorials, block parties, parades and fireworks displays, are planned.
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Liberation Day Parade on July 21 along Marine Corps Drive, which includes both civic and commercial floats that are typically related to the declared theme for the year. The parade starts at 8 a.m. at Adelup Governor’s complex and usually lasts about five hours. However, hours before the kickoff, families and organizations take up spots along the parade route, so you might want to get there early.
“We encourage all villages, cultural groups, nonprofits, military units, and private organizations to register and take part in this momentous event - one of the biggest and most meaningful celebrations of the year. Whether you’re walking in remembrance, dancing in celebration, or building a float with your village, this is your moment to be part of our island’s living history,” Tenorio said.
More information on Liberation Day festivities, memorials, and commemorative
(Photo courtesy of Guam Governor’s Office, Mayor Council of Guam)
(Photo courtesy of Guam Governor’s Office, Mayor Council of Guam)
Guam Hymn “Fanohge CHamoru”
Stand ye Guamanians for your country
And sing her praise from shore to shore
For her honor, for her glory
Exalt our island forever more.
For her honor, for her glory
Exalt our island forever more.
May everlasting peace reign o’er us
May heaven’s blessing to us come
Against all perils, do not forsake us
God protect our isle of Guam
Against all perils, do not forsake us
God protect our isle of Guam.
You can check out the audio of Guam Hymn here.
(Photo courtesy of Guam Governor’s Office, Mayor Council of Guam.)
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(Photo courtesy of Naval Base Guam)
Hasso (Memorial) Events
Kalaguak Memorial Ceremony (Tiyan)
July 11 at 10 a.m.
Hasso Mangilao Ceremony
July 14 at 9 a.m.
Hasso Malesso, Faha yan Tinta (Espinosa Ave.)
July 15 at 8 a.m.
Malesso Memorial Services (Rosary and Mass)
July 16 at 3:30 and 4 p.m.
Asan Memorial Mass
July 16 at 9 a.m.
Asan Landing Memorial Ceremony
July 16 at 11 a.m.
Hasso Chagui’an Massacre Memorial Ceremony (Yigo)
July 17 at 10 a.m.
Hasso Inalahan (Bear Rock Bay)
July 18 at 9 a.m.
Sumai Liberation Memorial Mass
July 18 at 11 a.m.
Hasso Fena Hasso Hagat
July 19 at 8 a.m. (Ceremony at 9:30 a.m.)
Hasso means “to remember,” “to think,” “to imagine” or “to realize” in Chamorro.
