Biba Guam!

July 21st is Liberation Day and it is probably the most widely celebrated holiday on Guam. Here is a little background info: Japanese forces landed on the Micronesian island just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, occupying it until U.S. troops recaptured it in July of 1944. July 21 — Guam's official Liberation Day holiday — marks the day American troops began the battle that proved a major turning point for the war in the Pacific. Guam celebrates this holiday to honor those who fought for the liberation of this westernmost U.S. Territory.

We decided to take part in all the festivities, especially since Matt was given the day off of work (it was a Tuesday)!! We headed down to the 1 (one of the main roads) to watch the parade. Although it was incredibly hot, we managed to stay for 2 hours of the 4 hour parade. Here are a few pictures!

Locals made many floats to honor Liberation Day. Check out their outfits...awesome, huh?! Of course, we had to get a picture of the carabao too! Rian just loves carabaos :) I also took a great picture of the F-22's (Air Force) flying overhead!


The military took a HUGE part in the parade and I just loved that! The Marines even flew in from Japan to participate! We also have to give a shout out to the Seabees! NMCB 40, a Seabee Battalion, participated in parade too (they are the ones with the hard hats)!


Matt took this picture of a Military Helicopter flying directly under the sun. Here are more pictures of all the Military that took part in the parade. Check out their fire power!

Some of the floats were so cool! Here is another local in a little loincloth :) Rian loved when the cheerleaders went by too....she is such a mini me!

After we couldn't stand the heat anymore, we had a little lunch and then headed to the beach to cool down! It was a really fun family day! Long Live Guam!!!