Marines


Guam

Håfa Adai

 
 
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Brigadier General Vicente "Ben" Blaz, USMC (Ret.

Brigadier General Vicente "Ben" Blaz was a distinguished Marine Corps officer and the first Chamorro to attain the rank of General in the U.S. military. Born in 1928 in Hagåtña, Guam, he survived the Japanese occupation during World War II and later pursued higher education, earning a commission in the Marine Corps in 1951. Over his 29-year career, he served in Vietnam, commanded at various levels, and made significant contributions to military strategy and leadership. After retiring, he continued his service as a delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives for Guam from 1985 to 1993, advocating for the island's interests.

In honor of his legacy and contributions, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz in Guam was named after him, marking the first new Marine base activation since 1952. The base stands as a tribute to his dedication to the Marine Corps and his commitment to Guam.



Brigadier General Vicente "Ben" Blaz was a distinguished Marine Corps officer and the first Chamorro to attain the rank of General in the U.S. military. Born in 1928 in Hagåtña, Guam, he survived the Japanese occupation during World War II and later pursued higher education, earning a commission in the Marine Corps in 1951. Over his 29-year career, he served in Vietnam, commanded at various levels, and made significant contributions to military strategy and leadership. After retiring, he continued his service as a delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives for Guam from 1985 to 1993, advocating for the island's interests.

In honor of his legacy and contributions, Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz in Guam was named after him, marking the first new Marine base activation since 1952. The base stands as a tribute to his dedication to the Marine Corps and his commitment to Guam.

Explore Guam: Life Outside the Base


Guam isn’t just a duty station—it’s an adventure waiting to happen.

Diving & Snorkeling – Explore world-famous reefs and WWII wrecks.

Hiking & Waterfalls – Try out Tarzan Falls or the Two Lovers Point trail.

Local Cuisine – Enjoy Chamorro BBQ, red rice, and fresh seafood.

Beaches & Resorts – Visit Tumon Bay for crystal-clear waters and entertainment.

Housing: Your Home on Guam


Finding the right housing in Guam starts with understanding your options. Whether you're single, bringing your family, or considering living on-base or off-base, here's what you need to know.

Unaccompanied Marines (E-4 and Below)

Single Marines in the rank of E-4 and below are required to live in assigned bachelor quarters unless an exception is granted by the local housing authority.

Housing Options for Families

On-Base Housing is available at Naval Base Guam (North Tipalao), which is approximately 45-60 minutes from Camp Blaz, and Andersen Air Force Base, which is only 15-20 minutes away.

Off-Base Housing with OHA is also an option for Marines with dependents. Eligible Marines can receive an Overseas Housing Allowance (OHA) to live off-base. Important: Do not sign a lease before approval from the Housing Office, as this may result in loss of OHA eligibility.

Checking in with the Housing Office

Upon arrival in Guam, all Marines must check in with the Andersen Air Force Base Housing Office to discuss available housing options. If a Marine elects to apply for OHA, the Housing Office will assist with completing all required documents, scheduling a mandatory site inspection for off-base housing, and reviewing the lease agreement.

⚠️ Do NOT sign a lease before approval! Marines who sign a lease before obtaining Housing Office approval may not receive OHA payments.

Understanding the OHA Process

Once OHA is approved, the Camp Blaz administration section will begin processing the allowance for the service member. It is important to note that OHA does not begin immediately and may take several weeks to reflect in your pay.

Marines in need of financial assistance while waiting for OHA to begin can request Advanced OHA after their approval is in the system.

📌 Need help? Contact the Andersen AFB Housing Office for further assistance.

Bringing a Vehicle to Guam


Understanding the process of shipping or storing your vehicle before your move will ensure a smooth transition. Marines are allowed to either ship one vehicle at the government’s expense or store one vehicle stateside at no cost, but not both.

Eligibility & Requirements

Marines must verify that Guam allows the import of their personally owned vehicle (POV) and that all host country entry requirements are met.

Marines must provide documented proof that no open recalls exist. This can be checked through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

Vehicle Condition & Preparation

Vehicles must be in fully operable condition with **functional standard and parking brakes**.

The fuel level must be at a quarter tank or below at the time of shipment.

Vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned inside and out to meet USDA agricultural inspection standards, ensuring they are free from dirt, plant debris, food particles, and other contaminants.

Documentation Required

A complete set of orders, including all amendments, must be presented when turning in the vehicle at a Vehicle Processing Center (VPC).

Proof of vehicle ownership is required, which can include a title, registration, or bill of sale (if purchased within 90 days).

If the vehicle is leased or has a lien, written authorization from the leasing or lienholder company is required.

If someone other than the service member is handling the vehicle turn-in, a Power of Attorney or notarized letter granting authorization must be provided.

Storage Option

For Marines opting to store their vehicle stateside, a storage letter of authorization from the Installation Transportation Office must be submitted.

Stored vehicles must still meet shipment standards, including safety checks and recall clearance.

Scheduling & Tracking

Marines are encouraged to schedule an appointment at their nearest Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) in advance to avoid delays.

The PCSmyPOV mobile app allows Marines to track their vehicle shipment in real-time, access pickup details, and communicate directly with the assigned VPC.

Education: Schools for Military Families


Guam offers DoDEA and local school options for children of service members. The Joint Region Marianas School Liaison assists with enrollment and school issues.

📌 Andersen AFB: Andersen Elementary (PreK-5), Andersen Middle School (6-8)
📌 Naval Base Guam: Commander McCool Elementary/Middle (PreK-8)
📌 U.S. Naval Hospital Guam: Guam High School (9-12)

 

For more options, visit the School Liaison Website or call (671) 475-0457.

Bringing Pets to Guam


Guam is a rabies-free territory, so all pets must go through quarantine (fees reimbursed up to $550).

Book pet travel ASAP on the Patriot Express (limited to two pets per family).

The Andersen Pet Lodge on Andersen AFB is an on-base quarantine facility.

For more info, visit the AMC Pet Travel Page or the Guam Military Pet Information Facebook Page.

What to Pack Before Moving to Guam


Passports are NOT required for U.S. citizens.

Driver’s License – Guam licenses take ~1.5 years to obtain. Keep your stateside license current.

Medical Screening (NAVMED 1300/2) – Guam has limited medical services, so confirm availability with your provider.

Required Uniforms – Bring Service Alphas, Service Charlies, Dress Blues (Alphas, Bravos, Deltas), Woodland MARPAT (sleeves up year-round), and PT gear.

Map of Marine Corps Base Guam, showing key locations for checking in.
 
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02

LATERAL MOVE

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03

OVERSEAS ASSIGNMENTS

Learn how you can serve while living abroad.

04

SPECIAL DUTY ASSIGNMENTS

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05

DIRECT AFFILIATION PROGRAM

Discover the benefits of the Marine Corps Reserves through the DAP.

06

ENLISTED TO OFFICER

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07

MARINE EDUCATION

Get all the details surrounding completing your education while on active duty.