U.S. military and CNMI officials on Friday commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Saipan and Tinian with a gathering at invasion beach, a motorcade, a wreath-laying ceremony at American Memorial Park, a flyover and other activities.
“We gather to honor a pivotal moment in our history,” Gov. Arnold I. Palacios said in his remarks. “The sacrifices made on this island were immense. Thousands of Americans gave their lives, and with more than 19,000 wounded.”
He added, “We must also remember the profound impacts on the indigenous Chamorros and Carolinian people, whose bravery and endurance in the face of such adversity reminds us of our shared strength at the price of peace. I also want to add the many Japanese lives that were sacrificed on these islands. Today we celebrate our freedom and our peace with our brothers and sisters in Japan.”
“Let us pledge to honor the legacy of those who fought on Saipan and Tinian by working together for a better, more peaceful world,” he added.
In his keynote address, Brig. Gen. John Jarrard, commanding general of the 4th Marine Division, said 80 years ago, the Marines “fought yard by yard a determined, well-prepared enemy. When the dust finally settled and the smoke cleared, the price paid in the blood and broken bodies of American men was staggering.”
“The total division’s strength of 16,391 was cut in half,” he said. “Half of the division, one out of two Marines and sailors were killed or wounded on these two small islands. 7,887 sons, brothers, nephews, neighbors, husband and fathers left their home never to return. … Their families lives’ left behind in America altered by the horrible price of war.”
To the CNMI community, Jarrard said, “I am thankful to call you my countrymen and my friends. The friendship and hospitality of your people on these islands is simply exceptional. Let us pray together that war will never again disturb the tranquility and beauty of this place, your homes.”
“To our Japanese friends, represented by Consul General Ryogi Takagaki,” Jarrard said, “we are honored and humbled by your presence. … When the guns fell silent just 13 months after the fighting … America offered to the Japanese people not a … boot … to humiliate a vanquished foe but rather an open hand of friendship … to lift up a proud people to stand side by side with us, as together we seek a better future. Our grandfathers made the decision to love their children and grandchildren more than they hated one another, and their collective wisdom sowed the seeds of what we are reaping today. The Japanese-American alliance is the cornerstone of an open and secure Indo-Pacific. I am thankful for our Japanese allies,” the brigadier general added.
As for America’s “enemies who are undoubtedly listening and observing what we do here today: be afraid. What you hear and see here today demonstrates the power of hope, friendship, and shared resolve. The freedom-loving people of the world love peace but not peace at any price. Justice and righteousness we hold more precious even in peace. We have a profound commitment to die to preserve our way of life and we invite with all sincerity all nations of the world to join us in this noble task,” Jarrard said.
In his closing remarks, Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho expressed his appreciation to all individuals who have contributed to make the commemoration ceremony a successful event.
“We are stronger if we all work together — together we can all make a difference,” he said.
Camacho also expressed his appreciation to the families of the Marianas Marine Scouts and World War II veterans. “Your unwavering support and devotion to preserving the memory of your loved ones have been an inspiration to us all,” he said. “It is through your stories, your memories, and your unwavering commitment in honoring their legacy that we find the strength to ensure that their sacrifices are not forgotten.”
The other dignitaries who delivered their remarks included National Park Service Superintendent Barbara Alberti, Deputy Assistant Interior Secretary for Insular and International Affairs Keone Nakoa, Marine Forces Pacific Executive Director Mark Hashimoto, local historian Don Farrell, and Japan Consul Ryogi Takagaki.
Traditional Carolinian dancers hold a big CNMI flag as they march toward the Marianas Memorial, which honors the Chamorro and Carolinian civilians who perished during the Battle of Saipan.
Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan and Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho bring a wreath to the Marianas Memorial, which honors the Chamorro and Carolinian civilians who died during the Battle of Saipan.
The commanding general of the 4th Marine Division, Brig. Gen. John Jerrard, delivers his keynote address.
Gov. Arnold Palacios delivers his remark at American Memorial Park.
U.S. Marines stand at attention as CNMI Department of Public Safety officers post the colors at American Memorial Park’s Court of Honor.
Gov. Arnold Palacios, Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, Saipan Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho with wife Delia, House Speaker Edmund Villagomez, other officials and dignitaries at the 80th Battle of Saipan and Tinian commemoration ceremony at American Memorial Park on Friday.
