HONORING LUCIA G. McDONALD

On 2026-06-08, Representative James C. Moylan (R-GU) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING LUCIA G. McDONALD" in the House.

HONORING LUCIA G. McDONALD

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 96 (Monday, June 8, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 96 (Monday, June 8, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E537-E538] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING LUCIA G. McDONALD _____ HON. JAMES C. MOYLAN of guam in the house of representatives Monday, June 8, 2026 Mr. MOYLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable woman whose life reflects the resilience, faith, and strength that have helped shape our island of Guam for generations--Ms. Lucia G. McDonald--as she reaches the extraordinary milestone of her 100th birthday. Born on November 29, 1926, Lucia has witnessed a century of history and has lived a life marked by perseverance, devotion, and unwavering commitment to family. Reaching one hundred years of age is an incredible accomplishment. Yet what makes this occasion truly special is not simply the number of years she has lived, but the legacy she has built throughout those years. Ms. McDonald's story is also a story of Guam. As a young girl growing up in pre-war Hagatna, she enjoyed a childhood filled with family, friends, and the simple joys of island life. She fondly remembered walking through the streets of Hagatna with her friends, enjoying the close-knit community that defined Guam before World War II. Her family was preparing for a major move to California, where her stepfather, a member of the United States Navy, had gone ahead to establish a home for them. But history had other plans. The outbreak of World War II and the Japanese occupation forever altered the course of her life. Like many members of Guam's Greatest Generation, Lucia endured years of hardship, uncertainty, and fear. Her family was forced from their home and sought refuge with relatives in rural areas of the island. They experienced food shortages, violence, and the daily realities of living under occupation. They witnessed the devastation of war and the destruction of the community they once knew. Through it all, Lucia survived. Her experiences stand as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and suffering endured by the people of Guam during one of the darkest chapters in our island's history. Following the war, she helped build a new life. In 1948, Lucia married Charles Henry Mariano McDonald, and together they built a home and family in Agana Heights. Their marriage would span nearly five decades and be blessed with twelve children. Through the years, their family continued to grow, eventually including 37 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren. Few accomplishments speak more powerfully to a life well lived than generations of family gathered together because of the love and foundation established by a mother and grandmother. While raising twelve children, Lucia embraced her role as a homemaker. She managed a busy household while helping care for a large farm filled with livestock, crops, and the countless responsibilities that came with supporting a growing family. Yet despite the demands of raising children and maintaining a home, she always found time for family gatherings, community events, and helping others. Friends and relatives knew her as someone who enjoyed bringing people together and celebrating life's special moments. Faith has always been at the center of Lucia's life. She devoted countless hours to her church and parish community. Whether preparing food for church functions, participating in Christian Mothers activities, leading rosaries, or attending daily Mass, she lived her faith through service. Her family describes her as someone who would carefully prepare herself each day before heading to church, eager to participate and contribute. Even today, despite the challenges that naturally come with age, her love for prayer and worship remains strong. Her family notes that while age may have affected certain abilities, her prayers and church hymns continue to ring out clearly and proudly. Another remarkable part of Lucia's story is her connection to one of Guam's historic family businesses. Her family traces its roots to the pre-war ``Home Bakery,'' established through the efforts of her parents and relatives, a venture that helped serve the community and would become part of Guam's broader business history. That entrepreneurial spirit, commitment to family, and dedication to community service have continued throughout the generations that followed. Today, as we recognize Lucia McDonald on her 100th birthday, we celebrate far more than a centennial milestone. We celebrate a World War II survivor, devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, whose life has touched countless people across our island. [[Page E538]] On behalf of the people of Guam and the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest congratulations to Lucia on reaching this extraordinary milestone. May her story continue to inspire future generations, and may she be blessed with continued health, happiness, and the love of family and friends. ____________________