The Guam National Guard enlisted its first Cyber Operations Specialist, as Maj. Arnold “Arnie” Arizala administered the Oath of Enlistment to his son Aidan at the Hagatna Recruiting Office Sept. 2, 2026.
The younger Arizala will head off to Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training for a total of about a year. He will then return to the Guam National Guard as the organization’s first Cyber Operations Specialist tasked with protecting military networks, countering adversaries, and securing national security assets. He will join others in the Guard who are already performing these tasks as Information Technology Specialists, who are also trained in cyber operations.
“My dad’s been in the Guard ever since I was born, so I grew up in the environment,” said Arizala. “He also provided us with an environment full of technology. So when I heard this position was available, I just thought it was the right time to join.”
When asked if he had any advice for his son prior to basic training, Maj. Arizala told his son to listen to his leaders, have thick skin, and move forward. But most importantly, to stay out of trouble.
“I’ve always encouraged my kids to enter the military – in particular the Guard,” said Maj. Arizala. “So this is great for Aiden and great for the family, as well as our island and country.”
As the newest Soldier in the Guam National Guard, Aidan Arizala said he was experiencing a mix of feelings, from nervousness to excitement.
“But I’m more on the excited side, because this is setting up my future with the life I want. I’m ready.”