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Guam senators tour THAAD
Senators of the 32nd Guam Legislature pose with military leadership in front of the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense system on Andersen Air Force Base on May 7. The senators visited the site to gain a deeper understanding of the THAAD mission, which has been at Andersen since April 2013. (U.S. Air Force/Airman 1st Class Adarius Petty)
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam—Senators of the 32nd Guam Legislature were provided a tour and briefing of the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense, or THAAD, battery located on Andersen Air Force Base on May 7.
Democrat Sen. Rory Respicio, majority leader, and Republican Sen. Anthony Ada, minority leader, made the initial request for the tour, which was hosted by Rear Adm. Tilghman Payne, commander of Joint Region Marianas; Brig. Gen. Steven Garland, commander of 36th Wing; and Army Lt. Col. Clyde Cochrane, commander of Task Force Talon, THAAD.
“As we continue to foster positive relations with our regional partners, it is important that we provide opportunities for Guam’s leaders to better understand the military’s mission,” Payne said. “We appreciate the senators’ support and willingness to familiarize themselves with our capabilities and to become acquainted with the men and women who serve our great nation.”
Respicio stated: “With the deployment of this missile defense system, our armed forces have once again demonstrated their professionalism and dedication to securing our island’s defense and our nation’s security.”
Legislative Secretary Tina Muña Barnes stated further: “It was a very impressive and informative tour and I know I speak for all my colleagues in conveying our gratitude to Admiral Payne and his command for keeping us apprised of this new addition to our island’s security.”
Senators Thomas Ada, Aline Yamashita, Christopher Duenas, Frank Aguon, Jr., and Thomas Morrison were also in attendance. (PR)
