Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's first visit to the region is underway.

The Pentagon confirmed Hegseth will tour the military facilities on Guam following his trip to Hawaii. 

In a statement to KUAM, Joint Region Marianas Commander Rear Adm. Brent Devore, stated, “We look forward to sharing our insights from across the region in person with the Secretary of Defense.”

But not all local leaders got the invite.

KUAM spoke with Emergency Management Oversight Chair Senator Shawn Gumataotao, Speaker Frank Blas Jr. and Veterans Affairs Oversight Chair Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane. 

“I know that it’s going to be closed off to most of the media but we believe he is going to get an honest assessment from the command here and really excited about that visit and its impact on defense policy moving forward,” said Gumataotao.  

Hegseth is in the Indo-Pacific region to see firsthand the defense capabilities.

“A lot of times the decisions made in Washington DC are made by individuals who can’t even find Guam on the map or much less have ever been here and for him to be able to take that time,” said Blas. 

“What we are hoping for is an opportunity to engage with and have meaningful discussion about the military building as Guam is the tip of the spear,” added Matanane. 

Hegseth has repeatedly recognized Guam's vital role to the nation in this part of the world.

Matanane hoped to bring up the need for a veterans hospital on Guam.

“If we don’t get an opportunity to meet the Defense Secretary I think it’s going to be disappointing because he is traveling all the way to Guam and he’s mentioned Guam in many of his engagements…so if he’s coming to Guam and talking about Guam then he should  make the effort to meet with the people of Guam outside of the fence,” said Matanane. 

“I am going to remain hopeful that there will be an invitation provided and that said there are many ways to address this. I’ll be disappointed but is that going to stop me from doing the work that I think needs to get done – certainly not,” said Blas. 

KUAM confirms Governor Lou Leon Guerrero is expected to meet Hegseth along with military officials.