Congratulations to former governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez, who’s been awarded one of Japan’s highest honors — The Order of the Rising Sun, gold rays with neck ribbon.  The award, conferred by the Emperor of Japan, recognizes Governor Gutierrez’s lifelong leadership, his work to strengthen Guam’s role in the Asia-Pacific, and his efforts to promote friendship and cooperation with Japan.

Democratic party chairman Mayor Anthony Chargualaf, Jr. said the honor reflects positively on Guam’s place in the region, while Vice Chairwoman Rikki Orsini added that it underscores the important diplomatic and cultural role Guam’s leaders can play on the global stage.

Governor Gutierrez served as Guam’s governor from 1995 to 2003.