Moylan: Updates on DOD, RECA, and veteran’s affairs

Guam’s Delegate to U.S. Congress James C. Moylan expressed his confidence in the U.S. military and National Guard in Guam following the recent test launch of the People’s Republic of China’s intercontinental ballistic missile.
“Our men and women in uniform, including our sons and daughters in the Guam National Guard, are ready and prepared if any conflict were to arise,” he said during a press conference on Oct. 3 at his Hagåtña office.

Moylan said the federal government and the Department of Defense has prioritized the protection of the Pacific region.

Guam's Delegate to U.S. Congress, James C. Moylan, speaks at a press conference held at his Hagåtña office on Oct. 3. Photo by Skyler Obispo.

The delegate also provided updates on different issues, including funding for defense infrastructure in Guam, and veterans affairs.

The Senate will convene after the election season to vote on their version of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act according to Moylan.

A total of $2 billion in total investments would be authorized for the island with $140 million being authorized for roads and $167 million for repairs of the Glass Breakwater in Piti.

Added funding and authority is being discussed for the Guam National Guard as well as complete funding of the island’s missile defense.

Additionally, the discussion awarding of the Medal of Honor to Sgt. Maj. Juan Ogo Blas, Sgt. Maj. Martin Manglona, and Sgt. Joseph Meno Perez is ongoing.

The congressman added that things may change depending on the version the Senate votes on.

Moylan’s HR-522 aims to help veterans. It passed in the U.S. House floor and is on its way to the Senate according to the congressman.

The bill will authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to cover the costs associated with the delivery of adaptive vehicles for disabled veterans.

Moreover, the DOD and the Department of Veterans Affairs are working closely to construct or lease medical facilities to be used by veterans.

Moylan said that the program is slated to end after one year, but has co-signed a letter hoping to extend it for another five. Additionally, a feasibility study was requested to understand what specialty care veterans need.

A memorandum of understanding is being worked on with Hawaii for extended care for Naval Hospital Guam.

Moylan said that the current version of Radiation Exposure Compensation Act is lacking support due to its high cost.

A $50 billion proposed legislation to expand the program to include downwinders, such as those in Guam, passed in Senate but was held by the House.

His team and others, including Missouri Senator Hawley, are working together to produce a version “more palatable” for leadership which could include placing a cap on the bill.

Better known by its acronym RECA, the act provides one-time benefit payments to persons who may have developed cancer or other specified diseases after being exposed to radiation from atomic weapons testing or uranium mining, milling, or transporting.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association proposed a list of 10 species of Giant Clams (Hima) under the Endangered Species Act.

Moylan said that under the proposed ruling, cultural carving of the clams will not be permitted and will prevent the next generation from continuing traditional practices.

“NOAA’s proposed rules is yet another case of rule making that does not take into account cultural heritage and traditions of the Pacific Islands,” he said.

Moylan said that he is engaged with conversation with NOAA to find a solution which promotes culture and conservation. mbj

Moylan: Updates on DOD, RECA, and veteran’s affairs