Judiciary of Guam gives generous donation to Operation Christmas Drop

(Hagåtña, Guam) The Judiciary of Guam yesterday presented a donation totaling $2,590.00 to the Guam Visitors Bureau and the United States Air Force for the annual “Operation Christmas Drop.”

“This is the season of giving, and in just about three work days, our Judiciary family stepped up to make this happen. The Judiciary has been a part of the Pacific Judicial Council for nearly 30 years, and we have developed friendships with those in our neighboring jurisdictions throughout Micronesia and the Pacific. We know the needs of our brothers and sisters in these islands, and we are happy to help in whatever way we can,” said Chief Justice F. Philip Carbullido. Carbullido presented the donation from the Judiciary to Jason Ornellas, the U.S. Air Force Representative for Operation Christmas Drop.

Since 1952, the Christmas Drop Organization has given aid to residents of the Western Pacific. This year marks the 69th anniversary, and the Organization has set a goal to air drop 125 relief boxes throughout Micronesia. With a stronger need for donations in 2020, GVB has also been actively assisting the operation in reaching out to government agencies, businesses, and organizations in the local community.

“The Judiciary of Guam was the first one that responded in such a positive manner to Operation Christmas Drop. I just looked at the contribution, and that’s going to go a long way. I want to thank the people of Guam and the Judiciary for this moment,” said former Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez, GVB President and CEO. “I got to experience three Christmas drops when I was stationed at Andersen Air Force Base in the 1960s. I know how enthused the people at Andersen are to make this happen. I think with the COVID situation, what the court did here really moved more resources for them to help thousands of people. So, on behalf of the Guam Visitors Bureau, thank you for your great response.”

The generosity of the employees of the Judiciary of Guam allowed a “Tronko” Sponsorship for the Operation Christmas Drop. This sponsorship will equate to 800 pounds of life sustaining supplies and specialized tools and equipment for our surrounding islands.