The Guadalcanal Homage of 6 September 1964, to the discoverer of the island and native son Pedro Ortega de Valencia, was a unique, one-time event and a golden public relations opportunity in Spain for the Marine Corps. Accordingly, The Corps went all out in its efforts to provide the best possible support to the town. The Marine Barracks received a ready-to-install exhibit of pictures, maps, and a Japanese sword captured during actual Guadalcanal fighting, for delivery to the town of Guadalcanal. The Barracks Drill Team, along with officers and other personnel from the barracks were dispatched to set up. The drill team provided a spectacular performance in the narrow streets as well as in the halls of the municipal center.

A host of U.S. and Spanish military and civilian dignitaries participated. It proved to be a highly successful venture for both the Marine Corps and the municipality. Hundreds of residents from nearby towns and villages came to attend and also to see Americans first-hand for perhaps the first time in their lives. Additionally, a fair was presented where Flamenco groups performed, local people sang and danced Sevillanas, and savored excellent wines through the night. Rota Marines had an experience that would always be remembered.