WWII Veteran Allan Chatwin Returns to Guam

NAVAL BASE GUAM (Sept. 12, 2024) – WWII Veteran Allan Chatwin, visited U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) and met with NBG Commanding Officer Capt. John Frye, NBG personnel, and fellow Yeomen, during a historical tour of the installation, Sept. 12.

In 1944, Yeoman 3rd Class Chatwin, was assigned to what was known as Naval Operating Base Guam. Chatwin was born on January 17, 1926 in Williamsville, New York. When the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, he was just fifteen years old, but understood the gravity of what it meant for the United States. He dropped out of high school shortly after. Chatwin was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1944 and sent to Canandaigua Lake, NY for basic training. As a Petty Officer 3rd Class, he was sent to Guam to serve guard duty.

During the tour, Chatwin visited the WWII Memorial, the former Sumay village, the National War Dog Memorial, remnants of the Guam Cable Station, and the Prisoner of War Steps. Chatwin also visited the Orote Airfield where he recalled memories of his time on the island.

In total, Chatwin served 2 years, 1 month, and 11 days in service during WWII. After the war, he completed his GED and went onto the School of Electronics using his GI Bill.