A decorated war hero and Guam's first delegate to the US Congress, known for advocating for the island's rights and self-governance.
Vicente T. Blaz, also known as Ben Blaz, was a decorated Chamorro United States Marine Corps Brigadier General from Guam, who later served as the delegate to Congress from Guam. He is renowned for his distinguished military career and his subsequent service in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1985 to 1993.
Vicente Toms Garrido Blaz was born on February 14, 1928, in Agana, Guam, to Vicente Dero Cruz Blaz and Rita Pangelinan Garrido. During World War II, he was forced to work in labor battalions building aviation fields and planting rice under Japanese occupation. In 1947, he received a scholarship to the University of Notre Dame, where he began his journey towards a life of service and leadership.
Blaz joined the Marine Corps Reserve at the outbreak of the Korean War and attended Officer Candidate School. He graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science degree and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. He served in Japan during the war and subsequently attended George Washington University, where he earned a Master of Arts degree in 1963.
After retiring from the Marine Corps on July 1, 1980, Blaz was elected as the delegate to Congress from Guam in 1984 as a Republican. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives for eight years, from 1985 to 1993.
Vicente T. Blaz's life of service and leadership has left an indelible mark on Guam and the United States. His dedication to his country and his people has inspired generations of Chamorros and Americans alike.
Throughout his life, Blaz has been guided by a strong sense of duty, honor, and country. He believed in the importance of public service and the role that individuals can play in shaping the future of their communities.
Blaz received numerous awards and decorations for his military service, including the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Navy Commendation Medal.
In addition to his military and congressional careers, Blaz was a devoted husband and father. He married his wife, Joan, in 1954, and they had three children together.
Vicente T. Blaz's legacy extends beyond his military and political careers. He has inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in public service and has worked tirelessly to promote the interests of Guam and its people.
Vicente T. Blaz passed away on January 8, 2014, but his life of service and leadership continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
89 Years Old
The first African American to serve as Secretary of State, he played a crucial role in shaping US foreign policy during the Gulf War and War on Terror. He's also known for his diplomatic efforts and leadership in the military.
73 Years Old
A highly decorated four-star general who led the US military efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan, later becoming the head of the CIA, known for his strategic thinking and leadership.
71 Years Old
A four-star general who led the Joint Special Operations Command and later served as the commander of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan, known for his counterinsurgency strategy and leadership.
81 Years Old
A four-star general who led NATO forces to victory in the Kosovo War and later ran for US President, known for his military strategic expertise and diplomatic efforts.
81 Years Old
Led a coalition of forces to a swift and decisive victory in the Iraq War, and was a key figure in the War on Terror.
75 Years Old
A four-star general who led US Central Command during the Iraq War, known for his expertise in Middle Eastern affairs and counterinsurgency strategy.
90 Years Old
A prominent leader of the Church of England, serving as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1991 to 2002, known for his efforts to modernize the church and promote interfaith dialogue.
