Korean Air flight 801, which tragically crashed on Guam’s shores on August 28, 1997 still casts a shadow of sadness over the island. The fateful night that changed Guam claimed the lives of 228 souls, forever altering the lives of the 23 survivors.

On a personal note, I was a freshman in college and had to return to Guam from Manila just two days after the crash. I vividly recall the uncomfortable silence throughout the cabin of that Continental Micronesia flight as we journeyed back home, and the collective somber of everyone on board fixated on the windows as we descended onto Guam’s shores. May the island of Guam, Korea, and all the families and friends whose lives have been forever changed find peace.

*** cover photo by DoD photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Rex B. Cordell, U.S. Navy.