Flag of Guam

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U.S._Army_Sgt._1st_Class_Patrick_Flores,_with_Echo_Company,_1st_Battalion,_294th_Infantry_Regiment,_Guam_Army_National_Guard,_attaches_a_miniature_Guam_flag_to_his_carry-on_bag_Dec._25,_2013,_at_Camp_Phoenix_131225-Z-WM549-201

Guam_Liberation_Day_2019_(190722-N-AY639-0008)

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Flag_of_Spain_(1785-1873_and_1875-1931)

Flag_of_Japan_(1870-1999)

Flag of the U.S. territory of Guam

Guam

The flag of Guam consists of a dark blue field with a narrow red border on all sides (border was added in 1948). In the center of the flag is the Seal of Guam, which depicts a proa (a type of sailboat) sailing in Agana Bay near Hagåtña, with a coconut palm tree on the shore. The shape of the seal is that of a Chamorro sling stone, used as a weapon and tool by the indigenous people of Guam.

Design

The flag's design reflects the island's cultural heritage and its natural beauty. The blue field represents the ocean that surrounds Guam, while the red border symbolizes the blood shed by the people of Guam during the Japanese occupation in World War II. The Seal of Guam, which is the central element of the flag, includes several important symbols:

• The proa, a traditional Chamorro canoe, represents the seafaring skills of the Chamorro people.
• The coconut palm tree symbolizes the resilience and resourcefulness of the people of Guam.
• The land and water depicted in the seal highlight the island's natural resources and beauty.

History

The flag of Guam was officially adopted on February 9, 1948. However, the design of the Seal of Guam dates back to 1917, when it was created by Helen Paul, the wife of a naval officer stationed on the island. The flag was designed to represent the unique identity and heritage of Guam, as well as its connection to the United States.

Symbolism

The flag of Guam is rich in symbolism, reflecting the island's history, culture, and natural environment. The blue field represents the Pacific Ocean, which is central to the island's geography and way of life. The red border signifies the sacrifices made by the people of Guam during times of conflict, particularly during World War II. The Seal of Guam, with its depiction of a proa, coconut palm, and scenic landscape, encapsulates the island's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Related Pages

• Seal of Guam
• Guam
• Chamorro people
• Japanese occupation of Guam
• Hagåtña
• Agana Bay