On May 30th, 2018, I interviewed Bobbie Lizama at the Sons and Daughters of Guam Club in Southeast San Diego. Born in August of 1955 on the island of Guam, Bobbie shares stories of her hometown in the village of Yoña and her upbringing as the eldest of eight siblings. As the responsible eldest child, she knows what each of her family members is up to, even to this day.
In the interview, Bobbie also discusses her time in the military. She served in the U.S. Army for five years and continued her working life in civil service, primarily as a human resources specialist. While in the military, Bobbie was influential to the people around her, particularly when supporting others as they step outside their comfort zones and when educating people about Guam.
Many Chamorros, like Bobbie, found their way to San Diego through the military. The Guam Club is the main meeting place for Chamorros of San Diego. Bobbie describes the Guam Club as her “home away from home.” By being involved in their events and activities, Bobbie has been able to keep Catholic traditions from Guam alive, get updates on her friends and their families, and stay connected to the larger Chamorro community.
