Stories of the War Series

Agueda Iglesias Johnston (1892-1977), a revered educator and community leader, played a pivotal role during World War II. Risking her life, she gathered crucial information from individuals with hidden radios, sharing news with fellow CHamorus to instill hope for the return of Americans to Guam. Despite facing brutal beatings and suffering at the hands of the Japanese, who suspected her of being loyal to the United States, Agueda remained resilient. After the war ended, she became a pioneer in Guam's education system, contributing to the reconstruction of schools from the ashes of war. Agueda also played a key role in establishing July 21st as a celebration day to commemorate the Liberation of the island from the Japanese.

During the Japanese Occupation, Joaquin Aflague Limtiaco (1903-1970) had the misfortune of being picked to complete tasks on behalf of the Japanese commanders. Many of these tasks put him in danger, risking anger from the Japanese and betrayal from his fellow CHamorus. Knowing it could have cost him his life, Joaquin skillfully navigated the delicate balance of aiding his fellow CHamorus, while also convincing the Japanese that he was serving their cause. However, when he did not meet the demands of the Japanese, Joaquin suffered brutal beatings. After the American recapture of Guam, Joaquin was acknowledged for his patriotism, and was chosen to be the Grand Marshall of the 1961 Guam Liberation Day parade.

Ignacia Bordallo Butler (1897-1993) is renowned as one of Guam's earliest and most successful businesswomen. Her entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of Butler’s Emporium, a thriving store in Hagåtña that she co-owned with her husband, Chester Butler. During the Japanese Occupation, Ignacia faced tremendous challenges as Chester was taken as a prisoner of war. Left to manage the business alone, she demonstrated exceptional resilience, withstanding Japanese pressure, enduring beatings and punishment for withholding information, and even aiding George Tweed, an American Navy radio man in hiding from the Japanese. Ignacia's steadfast determination earned her admiration, and her dedication, hard work, and loyalty to her island made her a revered figure in the community.

Renowned as the second ordained CHamoru priest, Father Jesus Baza Dueñas (1911-1944) ministered at St. Joseph Church in Inalåhan prior to World War II. During the Japanese Occupation of Guam, the Japanese saw Father Dueñas as troublesome because he dared to speak out against them and their actions towards the CHamoru people. Suspected of aiding the American Navy radio man George Tweed and secretly listening to radios for war information, Father Dueñas was arrested and brutally tortured, ultimately facing beheading. Today, Father Dueñas’ is buried near the altar in St. Joseph Catholic Church and his legacy lives on through Father Dueñas Memorial School in Ta'i, Mangilao. He remains a revered hero and a symbol of strength, inspiring successive generations on the island.