Reports: Futenma facility to remain in Okinawa

by Michele Catahay

Guam - Local officials are speaking in favor of reports coming out of Japan that the vice-defense minister is saying that the Futenma Air Station will remain in Okinawa. We Are Guahan member Victoria "Lola" Leon Guerrero tells KUAM News that she appreciates that the concerns in Guam are being heard, but also believes frustration in Japan need to be addressed.

Meanwhile, chairperson of the Committee on the Military Buildup Senator Judi Guthertz says the news will now give the U.S. more time to focus on the needs of Guam when dealing with the buildup.  "I think one reason they held back on making any commitments to the island for this buildup was because of the unknowns in Japan, but with that being settled shortly now the United States should look at how to assist this community so we can properly host this buildup," she said.

In the meantime, the Joint Guam Program Office declined comment on the matter, referring KUAM's inquiries to the U.S. State Department.