A.B. Won Pat International Airport Authority, Guam

Concerns have been raised over the de-installation of banners commemorating the Fallen Heroes of the War of Enduring Freedom previously displayed in the East Ticket Lobby of the Airport.

“The Airport is very cognizant of the pain and suffering of the families, friends and service organizations in the War of Enduring Freedom, which inspired us to participate in this special 63rd Liberation Day event to pay tribute to the Fallen Heroes of Micronesia,” stated Chairman Martin H. Gerber. “After two years of prominent display, our intention is to present these very personal and significant keepsakes to the family members of the fallen brave who are enormously impacted by the loss of their loved ones. It is our further intention to create a special memorial piece that will have a permanent place at the airport.”

Management and staff remain fully supportive of all those who have sacrificed and are committed to serve to protect our freedom. In coordination with the Family Readiness Groups from the various branches of the military, the Airport is a proud host of arrivals and departures ceremonies of deployed troops, Heroes Return Services, and special de-commissioning activities at the Airport. The Airport was also the first GovGuam Agency to receive the “Minuteman Award”, the highest honor bestowed on an organization recognizing exceptional achievement, patriotic acts and outstanding contribution to a military organization in early 2008.

“This is the People’s Airport, and we have deep respect for the service of all our deployed sons and daughters of Micronesia,” stated Carlos Salas. “We have prominently displayed the banners as a tribute to our local Heroes, and are now preparing the pictorial banners to present as gifts to the families. Unfortunately, our action has been misinterpreted and we regret that many people were inadvertently offended by our action.”

A special presentation ceremony of the Fallen Heroes banners is being coordinated to coincide with the upcoming 2009 Liberation Day Activities. Coordination and making contact with the families has commenced for a renewed Micronesian Heroes Tribute Ceremony in the 2nd week of July 2009.

All interested parties are encouraged to contact the Airport Marketing office at 646-0300/1/2 for information on the project.