Dozens flocked to the Guam National Guard Readiness Center in Barrigada to witness the promotion of ColonelJohnny Lizama to the rank of brigadier general.
Military and government officials attended the ceremony, including Capt. Andy Anderson, commanding officer of U.S. Naval Base Guam; Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz and other members of the Guam Legislature; Brig. Gen. Andrew Toth, commanding officer of the 36th Wing; and former Maj. Gen. Benny Paulino, former adjutant general of the Guam National Guard.
GovernorEddie Calvo and Brigadier General Roderick Leon Guerrero, current adjutant general of the Guard, delivered remarks during the ceremony. Air National Guard Capt. Alvin Alvarez served as master of ceremonies.
Two of Lizama’s children, Capt. Keith Lizama and Lt. Kimberly Fowler, assisted Leon Guerrero as he presented a flag signifying Johnny Lizama’s promotion to brigadier general. Lizama is the first Chamorro airman to be promoted, and federally recognized, to the rank of brigadier general in both the Guam Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force.
Leon Guerrero talked about the difficult path Lizama took in order to earn his promotion. “In the U.S. military, getting promoted has nothing to do with aristocratic ties,” Leon Guerrero said. He noted Lizama’s extensive military career and the sacrifices associated with moving up the ranks. “Like many of us in the military, Johnny missed birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, time with his children, and many other important family events,” he said.
He added that Lizama should serve as a role model for Guam’s youth, noting that regardless of origin, anyone can excel in their profession through hard work. “In our country and our own island we make our own destiny. Colonel Lizama is a great example for our young soldiers and airmen to emulate.”
Lizama also spoke during the ceremony thanking both his faith and his family for the support he has gained through the years. “I am a humble God-fearing family man who takes pride in serving his God, country, island and family,” Lizama said.
Lizama also presented his wife, Doris, with a bouquet of flowers during the ceremony. “After 32 years, you still bring a smile to my face and tears to my eyes,” he said.
Lizama is a 1977 graduate of Father Duenas Memorial School. He has a bachelor’s degree in management from the University of Guam, a master’s in public administration and human resources from Golden Gate University and is a graduate of the Air War College.