Rear Adm. Shoshana Chatfield, commander, Joint Region Marianas, addressed the Guam Contractors Association (GCA) at the Hyatt Regency Guam in Tumon July 19.

Chatfield spoke about the historic and continued One Guam partnership between the military and local communities, from the liberation of Guam in 1944 to current and future projects that affect the island and her people.

"From 2010 through 2016, the Department of Defense (DOD) contributed $83 million toward One Guam construction projects and initiatives that supported Guam's infrastructure," Chatfield said. "We're in a good place."

The admiral highlighted recent DOD and local government joint ventures with the Guam Power Authority and Guam Waterworks Authority to further provide quality utilities for island residents. She also addressed the DOD's goal of decreasing its footprint on island.

"This area is fundamental for future progression in Guam and I will ensure that Joint Region experts diligently work to preserve the environment for our children and grandchildren," Chatfield said. "To date, we are on pace to be 'net negative' by 564 acres as compared to the Department of the Navy's January 2011 footprint."

GCA Vice Chairman John Robertson was among the audience and thanked Chatfield for her remarks and commitment to continuous partnerships between local, military and private organizations.

"I think the theme of her message striving for One Guam was great," Robertson said. "All the contractors have relationships with the military so I think it's very important for us to have meetings like this to build our partnerships."

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