TAMUNING, Guam — A decades-old effort to have Guam World War II survivors receive reparations from the federal government could be decided in the courtroom.
A group of advocates are working to finalize a nonprofit organization called Guam World War II Reparations Advocates Inc., which plans to sue the U.S. government in hopes that survivors finally receive compensation the group believes they deserve.
Sen. Frank Blas Jr., one of the group’s directors, said members of Guam’s “greatest generation” continue to pass away every day.
The people involved in the group have met for months to discuss how they can help war survivors get what they rightfully deserve, Blas said.
The group is made up of local leaders from both political parties, lawyers and others.
A press conference was held at IHOP restaurant in Tamuning Monday to announce the group and its plan to sue the federal government.
Blas said the restaurant was chosen to reflect the nonpartisan effort of the group.
Former U.S. Department of Justice Special Counsel Juan Carlos Benitez said that as more survivors pass away, it becomes even more important for something to be done now.
“We really feel that this is injustice that has not been made right,” he said.
Former Lt. Gov. Frank Blas Sr., a WWII survivor, said the issue isn’t about money, but about recognition for him and others who suffered during the conflict.
He said the act would show the United States’ sincerity towards the people of Guam.
“Where is the justice for our sufferings?” he said.
He said there needs to be closure soon because the reality is that survivors are dying every day.
“What would it take for us here on Guam to be recognized,” he said.
Guam Del. Madeline Bordallo in a release, stated her support for the suit and said she would continue to work her bill in Congress to move the issue forward.
During her current term in Congress, Bordallo again introduced the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act.
Her war claims legislation has successfully passed the House five times, but has failed to clear the Senate.
“However, I will not cease in my determination in doing all that I can to move this issue forward in Congress despite the persistent opposition,” she said.
Benitez said the suit would be part of a dual approach to try to move reparations forward. He said the suit could help Bordallo’s legislation get passed.
Attorneys who will represent the suit are Washington D.C.-based Mauricio Tamargo, Jason Poblete and Jeremy Ibrahim.
The suit will be filed in the nation’s capital and legal fees will be paid using private funds, according to the group.
Once the group is officially formed as a nonprofit, it will begin fundraising and receiving funds to help with the efforts. Some people have already made commitments to provide support for the cause, the group said.
The group expects the suit to be filed sometime this year.
