port. We were met by Noel Roque of Dino Taxi Service
(dinotaxiservice@gmail.com) and headed out to explore the island.
The list of our stops included numerous historical sites relating to WWII
beginning with Apra Point where the Japanese launched massive attacks
against the Americans from the highlands. Below is Apra Harbor, which in the
months following the recapture of Guam was crowded with US cargo ships,
making it one of the busiest ports in the Pacific.
Then it was on to the War in the Pacific Historical Park Museum where we saw
a very moving film about the battles fought here and the hardships the
Chamorros (local people)endured during the occupation of the island by the
Japanese. The beach at Guan Point was one of the beaches where the US
Marines landed in their efforts to retake Guam in 1944. The Navy then set-up
shelters for the more than 6,000 native Chamorros released from Japanese
concentration camps. Three flags are flown here to honor those who died for
their country: American, Chamorros and Japanese.
Today it is hard to believe that so much blood was spilled on this beautiful
island. It is so clean and lush, and the flowers are abundant with vibrant
colors.
We also made stops at the Talifak Bridge constructed in 1785, one of the few
remaining examples of Spanish architecture and Umtata Bay, where the locals
celebrate the arrival of the Spaniards and Magellan.
Next up was Two Lovers Point where the "Romeo and Juliet" legend has it that
rather than be married off to a Spanish sea captain against her will, the
daughter of a local chief and her lover tied their hair together and plunged
to their death from these cliffs.
Stopped at a park to see examples of the stone pillars on which the ancient
Chamorro houses were constructed.
We did a quick drive-by of Guam's "White House", checked out a local beach
and stopped at the replica of the Statue of Liberty before heading back to
the ship.
Great day. Very busy with a fantastic guide.
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