Veterans from across Guam gathered for the veterans convention.     

 A day dedicated to honoring their service and sacrifices but it was also a day to speak up about the urgent need for better support and facilities, as veterans took the opportunity to put their needs front and center.

One of the major concerns discussed being access to medical and support services here on Guam.    

Director of the Guam Office of Veterans Affairs, Jose San Agustin, said it’s crucial to establish local resources for veterans.

“What we’re very concerned about is being able to have more medical services on Guam, so that the veteran does not have to go off-island,” said San Agustin. “Part of why that’s not a good practice is that many of the veterans’ needs are the support from their family members to accompany them. And many times, the VA will not allow that to happen.”

San Agustin also advocates for the establishment of a regional Veterans Affairs Office on Guam.   

This office would make assistance more accessible for veterans in the western Pacific region.

“And so, by having the regional office here, we could have them come this way to get help or we could send people out to go out there and help them with all their needs as far as the paperwork, how to put together their benefit package, and whatnot,” San Agustin said. 

In addition, retired marine, Frank Salas, shared why events like today’s are so important for veterans. 

“We’ve been neglected for a while now, and I’m just glad that we finally have a conference like this,” said Salas. “Women veterans are being highlighted today. It’s about time.”

“They’re talking about a veterans’ cemetery, an issue that’s near and dear to us veterans because that’s our final resting place for our brothers and sisters,” said Salas. 

And the message from our veterans is clear: They are united, committed to ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. 

Whether it’s local medical care, a veterans’ cemetery, or better resources, they’re determined to continue advocating for what they’ve earned.