Vicente T. Blaz, American general and politician (d. 2014)

Vicente Tomás Garrido Blaz: A Trailblazing Chamorro Leader in Military and Politics

Vicente Tomás Garrido Blaz, universally known as Ben Blaz (February 14, 1928 – January 8, 2014), was a truly distinguished figure whose life embodied unwavering dedication to both the United States and his native territory of Guam. A proud Chamorro, Blaz achieved historic firsts, becoming a Brigadier General in the United States Marine Corps and subsequently serving as a respected Delegate to the U.S. Congress, leaving an indelible mark on national defense and island advocacy.

A Decorated Military Career: Breaking Barriers in the Marine Corps

General Blaz's exemplary military career in the United States Marine Corps spanned nearly three decades, from 1951 until his retirement on July 1, 1980. A graduate of the prestigious U.S. Naval Academy in 1951, he was the first Chamorro to achieve this distinction, laying the groundwork for his groundbreaking ascent through the ranks. His service encompassed critical periods of American history, and his strategic acumen and leadership qualities propelled him to the esteemed rank of Brigadier General. This was a monumental achievement, as Ben Blaz became the first Chamorro ever to attain such a high rank within the U.S. military, inspiring generations from the Pacific islands and beyond. Prior to his retirement, he held a pivotal leadership position as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Reserve Affairs at the Headquarters Marine Corps in Washington, D.C., a role that highlighted his commitment to maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of the Marine Corps' vital reserve forces.

Transition to Public Service: Advocating for Guam in Congress

Following his highly decorated military service, Ben Blaz transitioned into the realm of public service, channeling his passion for his homeland into political advocacy. In 1984, he successfully ran for office as a Republican, becoming Guam's Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. This election was another historic moment for Guam, bringing a seasoned leader with deep military and administrative experience to the nation's capital. From 1985 until 1993, Blaz served four consecutive terms, representing the interests of the United States territory. As a non-voting delegate, he tirelessly championed issues vital to Guam and other insular areas, including economic development, veterans' affairs, environmental protection, and the ongoing quest for greater self-determination for his people. His tenure in Congress was characterized by a steadfast commitment to ensuring Guam's voice was heard and its needs addressed on the national stage.

A Lasting Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

Vicente Tomás Garrido Blaz's life was a testament to his profound love for his Chamorro heritage, his unwavering patriotism, and his steadfast commitment to service. Through his groundbreaking achievements as the first Chamorro Brigadier General and a dedicated Congressional Delegate, he carved a path for future leaders from Guam and set a high standard for public service. His contributions continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of individual dedication to effect significant change and represent one's community with integrity and distinction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Blaz

Who was Brigadier General Ben Blaz?
Brigadier General Vicente Tomás Garrido Blaz, commonly known as Ben Blaz, was a distinguished Chamorro leader from Guam who achieved historic success in both military and political spheres. He was the first Chamorro to become a U.S. Marine Corps Brigadier General and later served as Guam's Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives.
What was General Blaz's significance in the U.S. Marine Corps?
Ben Blaz made history by becoming the first Chamorro to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1951 and subsequently rose to the rank of Brigadier General in the U.S. Marine Corps. His almost three decades of service (1951-1980) culminated in his role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Reserve Affairs, making him a pioneering figure and an inspiration for his community.
What role did Ben Blaz play as Guam's Delegate to Congress?
From 1985 to 1993, Ben Blaz served as the Republican Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives for Guam. In this capacity, he was a vocal and dedicated advocate for the territory, working on crucial issues such as economic development, veterans' rights, environmental concerns, and the advancement of self-determination for the Chamorro people, despite not holding a vote on the House floor.