Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday travelled to Guam July 30, to meet with elected leadership and Sailors assigned to the island.
GUAM (NNS) - Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday travelled to Guam July 30, to meet with elected leadership and Sailors assigned to the island.
During his visit, Gilday met with Acting Governor Josh Tenorio and thanked him for Guam's continued support of the U.S. Navy, as well as their hospitality to Sailors, civilians, and their families.
"One of the most important reasons I am here is to express my gratitude to the people of Guam for all they do to support our U.S. Navy," said Gilday. "Time and again, the people of this community demonstrate their collective resilience, resolve, and willingness to help us when we need it most - and for that, you have my profound thanks. While Guam may be geographically far from the mainland, its connection to the U.S. Navy remains strong."
Tenorio echoed Gilday's sentiments.
"As demonstrated by the number of Guam's sons and daughters who serve in the U.S. Navy, our community recognizes that the relationship between Guam and the U.S. Navy can be mutually beneficial. When we work in partnership with one another while respecting the unique needs and circumstances of our island, we can improve the quality of life for all of our people. The U.S. Navy's assistance in facilitating Governor Lou Leon Guerrero's request to identify land for the development of a modern public healthcare facility for the people of Guam is just one example of our collaboration," said Tenorio.
During his visit, Gilday also met with Commander, Joint Region Marianas, Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson, and other Navy leadership; engaged with Sailors and commands assigned to Naval Base Guam; and visited the forward-deployed Littoral Combat Ship USS Charleston (LCS-18) during the ship's scheduled port visit.
"The U.S. Navy's commitment to security, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region is unparalleled," said Gilday. "Each and every day, our Sailors play a vital role in keeping the sea lanes open and free in this strategic region. No doubt, the work our Sailors are doing here is nothing short of impressive."
Joint Region Marianas plays a vital role in U.S. efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific due to its unique geographic proximity to Asia and its unparalleled value as a regional supply hub and training location. More than 21,700 military members and their families call Guam home. Guam hosts Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 15 and several submarines, Naval Special Warfare Unit One, submarine tenders USS Frank Cable (AS-40) and USS Emory S. Land (AS-39), and 28 other tenant commands.
This visit marked Gilday's first to Guam since assuming duties as CNO.
