The annual Veterans Day ceremony will move forward as planned despite the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to Governor’s Communications Director Krystal Paco-San Agustin.
“This year’s Veterans Day ceremony will look different, with limited to no participation from our military partners,” Paco-San Agustin said. “Nonetheless, the Leon Guerrero–Tenorio Administration will continue to honor those who have served.”
The event’s keynote speaker will be John M. “JQ” Quinata, Executive Manager of the Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport Authority, Guam. Quinata has led the self-sustaining agency since 2020, overseeing more than 220 employees across eight divisions. Before becoming Executive Manager, he served as Deputy Executive Manager and, prior to that, held several leadership roles in the Guam Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force over his 38-year military career.
A retired Chief Master Sergeant, Quinata also served as the Sixth State Command Chief Master Sergeant for the Guam Air National Guard, advising The Adjutant General on matters of morale, welfare, and training. His public service includes prior roles as Director of the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency and as a senator in the 27th Guam Legislature.