08 Jul Honoring the Builders of the Peace Memorial Park: A Chamorro Legacy and the Spirit of Yamato Damashii
Not too long ago, while I was at the Yellow Brick Road, I encountered a determined elderly lady with a remarkable story. As we chatted, she revealed that her father, Vicente Untalan Diaz, and his brother, Fernando Untalan Diaz, were the original builders of the Peace Memorial Park in Yigo, now known as the South Pacific Memorial Park. Despite their significant contribution, these men have never received the recognition they deserve.
The Peace Memorial Park, a tribute to soldiers and locals who died during World War II, stands as a symbol of sacrifice and honor. Yet, the efforts of Vicente and Fernando remain unsung. The Japanese government, wanting to honor their dead soldiers and those who perished during the war, faced a significant hurdle. The architect’s plans were in Japanese, and few on Guam could read or write Japanese. However, Vicente and Fernando, who had been sent to Palau as children and learned Japanese, were uniquely qualified to undertake the project.
Mary Ellen Diaz Tyquiengco, the daughter of Vicente, shared the heartfelt journey of her father and uncle. In the 1960s and early 70s, the Diaz brothers, through their construction company, Diaz Construction Company, took on the monumental task of building the Peace Memorial Park. This project, which required immense physical labor and dedication, took two years to complete. The Diaz family often helped during weekends, making it a family endeavor.
Mary Ellen, in her letter to a local senator, passionately recounted the sacrifices her father and uncle made. They spent countless hours away from their families, working tirelessly to honor both the Chamorro people and the Japanese. Despite their hard work, they never received formal acknowledgment for their contributions. This lack of recognition deeply bothers Mary Ellen, especially knowing the sacrifices her father and uncle made.
In our conversation, Mary Ellen mentioned that her mission is to secure proper recognition for her father and uncle. She wishes to honor her father and uncle’s memory and bring this recognition to her living mother, ensuring that the island appreciates their efforts.
This story holds special significance as we approach the 80th Year of Guam’s Liberation. The annual Liberation Day commemorates the island’s freedom from Japanese occupation during World War II, a time to honor the bravery and sacrifices of the Chamorro people and the soldiers who fought for their freedom. The recognition of the Diaz brothers’ contributions to the Peace Memorial Park can serve as a powerful symbol of peace and reconciliation, tying together the island’s past and present.
The story of the Diaz brothers is not just about building a monument. It’s about the cultural bridge they built between Guam and Japan, showcasing the spirit of peace and reconciliation. Despite witnessing the horrors of war, including the beheading of a relative by a Japanese soldier, Vicente and Fernando’s loyalty and dedication to both the Chamorro and Japanese people remained unshaken. Their ability to look beyond the atrocities of war and contribute to a symbol of peace is a testament to their character.
This recognition, especially during the 80th Liberation celebration, can be a profound way to honor the spirit of resilience and unity. It highlights the importance of acknowledging historical contributions and fostering a culture of gratitude and respect. The story of the Diaz brothers is not just a chapter in Guam’s history but a beacon of hope and understanding.
The efforts to secure recognition for the Diaz brothers have sparked collaboration between concerned citizens in Guam and Japan. These dedicated individuals are working together to gather undeniable evidence and secure a resolution, ensuring that the Diaz brothers’ legacy is honored appropriately.
Mary Ellen’s dedication to her father’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing the unsung heroes in our communities. The story of the Diaz brothers not only honors their memory but also serves as an invitation for Japanese visitors to connect with Guam’s history and the enduring spirit of the Chamorro people. This recognition will not only honor the past but also pave the way for a future rooted in peace and mutual respect.
As we commemorate the 80th Year of Guam’s Liberation, let us embrace this opportunity to highlight stories of unity and peace. Recognizing the Diaz brothers’ contributions is a step toward healing and honoring the shared history between Guam and Japan, ensuring that their legacy inspires future generations. This story of peace and collaboration, known as “Yamato Damashii: The Spirit of Big Peace,” embodies the enduring values of both cultures and their commitment to a harmonious future.