The 45th Liberation Day Games kicked off Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the PICS Field, with Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang joining dignitaries from Pohnpei and beyond to mark this important occasion. The games, a yearly tradition commemorating Pohnpei’s liberation during World War II, highlight the spirit of sportsmanship and unity within the state.
Among those in attendance were The Honorable Marvin T. Yamaguchi, Speaker of the 11th Pohnpei Legislature; The Honorable Nelbert Perez, Floor Leader of the 23rd FSM Congress; The Honorable Quincy Lawrence; The Honorable Kumer Biza, Mayor of Kolonia Town; His Excellency Wu Wei, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the FSM; Her Excellency Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM; and Her Excellency Jennifer Grant-Curnow, Australian Ambassador to the FSM.
Both Governor Joseph and Speaker Yamaguchi delivered remarks, expressing their heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the games and the athletes who had worked diligently to represent their respective municipalities. In his address, Governor Joseph emphasized the importance of fostering goodwill and sportsmanship in these games, which symbolize both the resilience of the people of Pohnpei and their dedication to building a strong, united future.
Click below to watch the Liberation Day Message by Governor Joseph: