Guam is the most significantly strategic military base in the Pacific. Senate talks with the president-elect's pick for defense secretary included a brief mention of us here in the territory. Local leaders are applauding the discussion as some of them are expected to attend Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday.

Just days before Trump takes the oath and returns to the White House.

His pick for defense secretary Pete Hegseth was grilled before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill.

After more than four hours into his confirmation hearing, the military veteran and media personality took on a list of questions from Senator Tim Sheehy of Montana.

Sheehy asked, "What do you think our most important strategic base is in the Pacific?" with Hegseth responding, "In the Pacific, Guam is pretty strategically significant."

A brief mention of the island.

Guam delegate James Moylan, who will be attending Trump's inauguration next week, commending Hegseth stating, "The fact that the nominee has expressed his understanding of Guam's vital role in this region with a question asked by a senator other than one from the Pacific or the west coast, where the tendency is to seek their support, is a breath of fresh air."

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, who is traveling to Palau for the presidential inauguration of his excellency Surangel Whipps Jr., stating in part, "This further underscores the importance of Guam to national security...as the proverbial tip of the spear, we must ensure that the health, welfare, and quality of life of the community that is serving such a prominent role in our nation’s defense is fully addressed. As always, I will work to do my best in the name of Guam's safety, the region's protection, and the nation's security. I plan to have a face-to-face discussion with the administration's secretary of defense."

Emergency management and Guam National Guard oversight chair Senator Shawn Gumataotao, who will represent the Republican Party of Guam at Trump's inauguration, stating, "Defense Secretary-Select Hegseth and military leaders know and continue to recognize the importance of Guam to the military posture in the Western Pacific. The Trump-Vance Administration is keeping our American community in Micronesia front of mind. Our party and the people of Guam should be excited about his focus on the war fighter and steadfast defense of our nation."

Federal and foreign affairs oversight chair Senator Jesse Lujan stating, "His statement during the confirmation hearing underscores what we, as islanders, have long understood: Guam is not just a dot on the map; it is a linchpin for regional security, a key staging ground for U.S. military operations, and a bridge between the United States and our Indo-Pacific allies."