War in the Pacific National Historical Park While Guam is only 212 square miles, the island is rich in history. The island was captured by Imperial Japanese forces just days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and remained under Japanese control for 31 months until July 21, 1944 when the United States returned and liberated the island. Many lives were lost, and the suffering was great for all those involved in the battles on Guam and throughout the Pacific theater. In order to remember the United State's and Guam's involvement in World War II, War in the Pacific National Historical Park was established in 1978 to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those who participated in the campaigns of the Pacific Theater of World War II and to conserve and interpret outstanding natural, scenic, and historic values and objects of the island of Guam. The park is made up of six developed units, plus the undeveloped Mt. Alifan Unit. Each one tells a different story from the war.
T. Stell Newman Visitor CenterStart your visit with a 10-minute video about the Battle for Guam at the visitor center, home to a museum, bookstore and historic submarine.
Agat UnitExplore remains of fortifications used by Imperial Japanese troops during the Battle of Guam at the Agat Unit.
Asan Bay OverlookRemember those who lost their lives or suffered atrocities on Guam during World War II at the Asan Bay Overlook.
Asan Beach UnitWalk in the footsteps of the Third Marine Division at the Asan Beach Unit, one of two landing sites used on July 21, 1944.
Fonte Plateau UnitSee the remains of the Imperial Japanese communications center at the Fonte Plateau Unit.
Piti Guns UnitHike through the jungle to three Imperial Japanese coastal defense guns at the Piti Guns Unit. |
Last updated: March 17, 2025