President backs reparations act's inclusion in defense bill

by Mindy Aguon

The Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act just received a huge boost of support as President Barack Obama has fully endorsed its inclusion in the National Defense Authorization Bill as it is written in H.R. 44.  The Act is dedicated to more than 1,100 Chamorros who were executed or died during the Japanese occupation of Guam during WWII.

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo received a letter from the president endorsing the inclusion of H.R. 44 in the NDAA.   U.S. Department of the Interior assistant secretary for policy, management and budget, Rhea Suh, sent a letter on behalf of the Obama Administration, offering the Administration's comments.  Suh said, "The Department of the Interior strongly supports the inclusion of Title XVI, the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act, in the final legislation."

Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo said upon learning of the commander in chief's support, "The endorsement of Guam war claims by the Obama Administration in the final defense bill is a major development as we head to conference.  I believe that the Administration's position will be an important factor in the conference committee's deliberations.  I thank Assistant Secretary Tony Babauta who was instrumental in gaining the Administration's support."

The final version of the defense bill has been a concern for members of the local business community on island.  This spurred a recent delegation's trip to Washington, DC, made up of representatives from the Guam Chamber of Commerce, the Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association and others.

The delegation brought forth a message of opposition to Hawaii congressman Neil Abercrombie's amendments, which would impose a 30% cap on H-2 workers and also require workers in Guam be paid the same wages as those in Hawaii.  

Guam Chamber of Commerce board member Frank Campillo told KUAM News, "Being there just a week ago we were able to find out where they are in regards to the Abercrombie amendment. We understand the DOD sent a letter objecting to the amendments and we understand that both members of the Senate and members of the House oppose those amendments, so we believe that none of those amendments will survive."

The next few weeks will determine whether the measure will be included in the defense bill.  The congresswoman earlier this week urged residents to support the inclusion, saying, "We are at a critical juncture and we are within reach".  Bordallo has called on residents to make phone calls and send e-mails to Senate leadership in an effort to garner as much support for the bill as possible.