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NEWS
Museum and Park Headquarters Close
Date
February 25, 2003
Contact
Rose S.N. Manibusan, 671-477-9362
We would like to take this opportunity to inform the public that we have been forced to close the T. Stell Newman Visitor Center (museum) and Park Headquarters located in the village of Asan due to the devastating effects of Super Typhoon Pongsona.
For nearly 25 years, the park staff has worked to provide our visitors with a quality park experience. We have developed programs that enhance visitor awareness and understanding of the outbreak, causes, and effects of the Pacific Theater of World War II. Over the years, we have documented the personal war experiences of those who fought in the campaigns of the Pacific War and the experiences of Chamorro survivors who endured life under wartime conditions. We have documented, developed, preserved, and protected park resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
Unfortunately, we will not be able to conduct business as usual with the closure of the museum and the relocation of park headquarters. Flooding, the lack of power, extensive electrical damage, high humidity, and mold buildup has created an unsafe environment, adversely affecting museum exhibits and audio-visual equipment. This situation has forced us to temporarily relocate.
Superintendent Eric Brunneman has been working with National Park Service officials and the General Services Agency (GSA) to find park storage and relocate offices. We regret any disappointment, inconvenience, and adverse effects this may have on our visiting public, the local community, Guam’s tourist industry, and especially to our veterans and war survivors.
War memorials, like the War in the Pacific National Historical Park have become places of refuge sought out by the public. They play a critical role in preserving our nation’s heritage. They honor those who have sacrificed their lives for this country and serve as reminders that our freedom comes at a high price. They become special places where former enemies come together to heal old wounds, inspiring hope for the future and the pursuit of world peace. We realize how important this park is to the public.
We are looking into alternative solutions to address visitor services/needs and we ask for your continued support, patience and understanding in the coming months ahead. To those who have been trying to reach our office unsuccessfully, please accept our apologies. Our telephone lines have been down since December 8, 2002. GTA has scheduled line repairs and we hope to have our telephones working in the near future.
If you have concerns regarding the closure of the visitor center/museum, we encourage you to submit your comments to War in the Pacific NHP, 460 N. Marine Dr., Piti, Guam 96915. Your concerns are important to us. We are open to all alternative solutions to this situation.
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