The Soldier Who Never Surrendered: Shoichi Yokoi

Episode Summary:
In this premiere episode of Echoes of Our Ancestors, we journey into the heart of Guam’s jungle to revisit a story not from ancient mythology—but from living memory. Shoichi Yokoi, a Japanese soldier, lived hidden underground in Talo’fo’fo for 28 years after World War II ended. His story is one of survival, trauma, discipline, and the long-lasting imprint of war on Chamorro land and people.

Join us as we reflect on what Yokoi’s presence beneath the soil reveals about our island's history, and how compassion, even toward a former enemy, is deeply rooted in Chamorro values of respect, humanity, and resilience.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The dramatic backstory of Shoichi Yokoi’s jungle survival
• How Chamorros discovered and responded to him in 1972
• The symbolic weight of Yokoi’s story in the larger Chamorro experience of war
• A personal reflection from the host on visiting Yokoi’s Cave

Why It Matters:
Yokoi’s story may not come from ancient times, but it speaks to our people’s journey through war, memory, and survival. It reminds us that some wounds remain buried—but never forgotten.

Featured Sites:

• Yokoi’s Cave Replica & Site Info: Visit Guam – Yokoi’s Cave
• Museum Exhibit featuring Yokoi's Artifacts: Visit Guam - Guam Museum