By Shima Zormandshahriyari, Northwest Region

More than 400 Red Cross responders have been deployed to support communities across Guam following Typhoon Bavi. Since the response began, volunteers have served tens of thousands of meals and snacks to shelter residents and community members. Across 16 shelters on the island, more than 10,000 overnight stays have been recorded.

While those numbers illustrate the scale of the disaster, they do not tell the full story. The true story of Guam is one of resilience, generosity and hospitality. For many Red Cross responders, the people they met transformed a deployment assignment into an unforgettable experience.

Larry Bleich, a community volunteer leader, traveled throughout Guam, visiting shelters to ensure they had the support and resources needed to serve residents. Along the way, he witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the typhoon.

“Cars burned out and destroyed and abandoned by the side of the roads, all vegetation overturned and homes buckled.  Even hotels with windows blasted out and the hotel abandoned.  It takes your breath away to see how forceful Mother Nature can be and, being on a small island, how vulnerable the population can be,”  Larry said.

But amid the destruction was another story: the story of the people.

Shelter volunteers went above and beyond to provide comfort and care to residents, bringing compassion, patience and positivity even during the most challenging moments.

“Volunteers and staff who work in shelters are unsung heroes, and they deserve the utmost appreciation for what they do," Larry said.

Every deployment comes with challenges, but it also creates moments that remain with responders long after they return home. For Larry and many others, those lasting memories were shaped by the people of Guam.

“Coming to Guam, you see the phrase "Hafa Adai" everywhere.  In short, it translates to "Hello" or "Welcome".  It reflects the culture's warmth and hospitality from their Chamorro language. They do not just say it; they mean it and live it, and I feel it each and every day," Larry said.

The warmth and generosity of the people of Guam gave Red Cross responders countless meaningful memories to carry home. Larry describes his interactions with community members as sincere, heartfelt experiences filled with kindness and connection.

Throughout his deployment, Larry saw the Red Cross mission come to life in a powerful way. For volunteers considering joining a Disaster Action Team or pursuing future deployment opportunities, he offers simple advice: take the first step.

“At that point you gain clarity about what the Red Cross mission represents...preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies. I would encourage volunteers at any level to 'dip your toe in the water' and secure a GAP status so that you can gain the experience of a lifetime. Giving back in this way is the ultimate humanitarian gift,” Larry said.