Guam Nikkei Association Honors Peace and Remembrance at 15th Memorial Ceremony

Participants of the 15th Peace Memorial Ceremony held on April 18, 2026.  GNA sponsored a wreath for the event.

  GNA participated in the 15th Peace Memorial Ceremony.  Pictured with the GNA commemorative wreath are Frank Shimizu, Jr. (member), David Okada (GNA President), and Jeff Espinosa (member).

The Guam Nikkei Association (GNA) participated in the 15th Peace Memorial Ceremony held on April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Yigo South Pacific Memorial Park.

Organized by the South Pacific Memorial Association, Inc., the ceremony honored all World War II fallen soldiers, civilians, and victims, while fostering reconciliation and underscoring the enduring importance of peace.

As part of its tribute, GNA sponsored a commemorative wreath in remembrance of those who lost their lives.  

The Yigo South Pacific Memorial Park is also the home of the GNA Issei Memorial Monument.

From Start to Finish: GNA Supports Ko’ko Road Race with Energy and Purpose

The Guam Nikkei Association (GNA) proudly supported the Ko’ko Road Race, organized by the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB), in the early hours of Sunday morning, April 12, 2026. While the race officially began at GVB, GNA members stationed themselves across from the GCIC building in Hagåtña from 5:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. to rally and uplift participants along the route.

Though small in number, the GNA team made a powerful impact. Armed with a megaphone, pool noodles, towels, and boundless enthusiasm, they created a lively and encouraging atmosphere. Their cheers, clapping, and spirited energy motivated runners of all levels—from the very first to the very last—as they passed by twice on their journey to the finish line, striving to achieve their personal bests.

GNA commends the Guam Visitors Bureau for hosting a successful and meaningful event, and extends heartfelt congratulations to all runners and supporters. Beyond the race itself, the event plays a vital role in raising awareness and funds for the conservation of the Guam rail, or Ko’ko—a critically endangered, flightless bird native to Guam.

Through their presence and support, GNA demonstrated the power of community spirit, showing that even a small group can make a significant difference in both uplifting others and advancing an important cause. 

Pictured (front row): David Okada and Jeff Espinosa. Back row: Drevon Espinosa, Sairus and Kaya Tubiera Dunn, Kimberly Laganzo, and Pauline Okada.

Harumatsuri Guam Japan Festival

Guam Nikkei Association (GNA) celebrated spring festivities at the Harumatsuri Guam Japan Festival with the Japan Club of Guam, the Japan Consulate General Office, and the Dolphin Jump (Guam Wadaiko Juku Association) on April 11, 2026, at Joseph Flores Beach Park (Ypao). Many people stopped by to try their skills at games, kendama, wadaiko drumming, and more. Enjoy the following snapshots from the festival:

2026 Sand Sculpture Festival Snapshots - March 15

The Guam Nikkei Association, in partnership with the Japan Club of Guam and the Consulate-General of Japan, proudly coordinated the 2026 Sand Sculpture Festival held on March 15, 2026, at Governor Joseph Flores Beach Park. The event brought together youth ages 10–17, organized into teams of three, to creatively showcase CHamoru and Japanese cultures, as well as environmental sustainability, through sand sculpture design. The USCG Auxiliary, active duty Coast Guard personnel, and other community members provided vital support in event coordination, safety oversight, and community engagement, helping ensure a well-organized, safe, and enriching experience for participating teams and their families.