by Nick Delgado

Guam - Recalling the two times Guam has served as a haven for refugees, Military Buildup Committee chairperson Senator Judi Guthertz wants the governor to offer the island as a staging point for Iraqis who may be evacuated from the country. Guthertz says Guam is ready to help and has urged the governor to review the situation and offer any assistance that may be needed as American troops pull out of the country.

She said, "The expression and concern is when the US leaves its large remaining military presence in Iraq that the well being of those who have been very much with the US during early years of the Iraqi war that they will be in harms way and our country has a great history of helping."

More than 35 years ago, Guam played host to thousands of Vietnamese who were evacuated from their country. In 1996 the territory also hosted thousands of Kurdish refugees.