Governor Arnold I. Palacios, Lt. Governor David M. Apatang, along with U.S. military personnel and other CNMI officials marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Saipan and Tinian with a re-enactment of the beach landing at the Veterans Memorial in Susupe, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the American Memorial Park’s Court of Honor and Marianas Memorial.
Governor Arnold I. Palacios in his remarks highlighted the immense sacrifices made, with thousands of Americans giving their lives and over 19,000 wounded. Governor Palacios also emphasized the impacts on the indigenous Chamorros and Carolinians, honoring their bravery and endurance as well as the Japanese lives lost, celebrating the current peace and freedom shared with Japan.Palacios urged for the legacy of those who fought to be honored by working towards a more peaceful world.
Brig. Gen. John Jarrard, commanding general of the 4th Marine Division, paid tribute to the Marines’ sacrifices and the exceptional friendship and hospitality of the CNMI community. He expressed gratitude for the Japanese-American alliance, noting its importance for an open and secure Indo-Pacific, and highlighted the collective commitment to preserving peace and justice.
Among the dignitaries who delivered their remarks were Barbara Alberti, Superintendent of the National Park Service; Keone Nakoa, Deputy Assistant Interior Secretary for Insular and International Affairs; Mark Hashimoto, Executive Director of Marine Forces Pacific; local historian Don Farrell; Japanese Consul Ryogi Takagaki; and Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho.
