5 August 1944. “Home Again” – Col. Merlin F. Schneider (kneeling, left), Commanding Officer of the Marine unit that recaptured the Marine Barracks on Orote Peninsula, Guam, holds the plaque that was removed by the Japanese when they took possession of the barracks and the island nearly three years earlier.
NHHC Photograph Collection, from the “All Hands” Collection, September 1944.
The three Marines, who located the plaque and presented it to the Colonel, stand behind it. They are (left to right): Privates First Class John C. Brown; Carmen J. Catania; and Corporal Joseph J. Mannino.
On 21 July 1944, the 3rd Marine Division launched an amphibious assault to liberate and recapture Guam during World War II.
Landing craft returning to their transports, after landing Marines near Asan Beach, Guam, on 21 July 1944. National Archives 80-G-248260
Last week, Guam celebrated their 74th Liberation Day parade. The Division Color Guard and III Marine Expeditionary Force Band participate annually in the parade and Liberation Day festivities with the local Chamorros, and it shows Asan Beach as it is today.