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SFC Taisi R. Steffany-Alosu'esu'emanogi retires
Written by MAJ Tauapai Laupola

The 24th of April 2008 marked the end of SFC Taisi R. Steffany-Alosu'esu'emanogi's 20 years of military service. SFC Steffany-Alosuesuemanogi was amongst 28 soldiers that were honored during a retirement ceremony hosted by the 264th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 82nd Airborne Division.

SFC Steffany-Alosu'esu'emanogi was born on 3 JAN 1970 in the village of Fagasa, AS to Rudy Utagamamao Steffany of Fagasa and Mrs Patosina Tuitau of Fagatogo. He is married to Mrs Dayna Steffany, and they have 2 children, BJ Borders and Haliikai. He was raised in Fagasa, Fagatogo and Leone respectively. He is a product of Leone Midkiff and Leone High School until his senior year when he moved to California and graduated from Carson High School in 1988.

Immediately after graduation; he joined the US Army and was stationed at Ft Carson, CO with Delta Company 112th Infantry from 1988-1991, Ft Bragg, NC with the 1st Special Warfare Training Group 1991-1993, Ft Myers, VA with 3rd Infantry or better known as the Old Guard 1993-1997, Ft Benning, home of the infantry as a Drill Sergeant 1997-2000, Ft Shafter, US Army Pacific 2000-2003. In 2003-2006 he returned to Ft Bragg, NC and from 2006-2007 he deployed to Iraq as the NCOIC for the 129th AS (Postal).

SFC Alo's awards and badges includes the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense medal, Global War on Terrorism Service medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, NCO Professional development Ribbon, Army Service ribbon, Parachutist Badge, Expert Infantry Badge, Drill Sergeant Badge, and Superior Unit Award.

SFC Steffany-Alosu'esu'emanogi has been a strong supporter of Samoans at Ft Bragg since his arrival in 2003. He helped establish a successful Samoan association before he deployed to Iraq. He will be remembered for his efforts to bring together Samoan service members at Ft Bragg to promote the Samoan language and culture. He is also the Assistant Pastor for the Samoan Christian Congregation.

When asked about his thoughts about retirement, SFC Steffany-Alosu'esu'emanogi thanked his families, friends and relatives for their unwavering support throughout the last 20 years. He proceeded in teary eyes and paid a special tribute to his parents, the late Utagamamao Rudy Steffany and Patosina T. Steffany, his sisters and his brother Rudy. "I hope that I lived up to your expectations and have carried our family name with pride. I am returning home to serve our families and the people of American Samoa."

SPC Antoinette Graduated from Warrior Leaders Course

On a cool and cloudy morning with a breeze of 5 knots, SPC Ponafala, Antoinette graduated from the Warriors Leaders Course (WLC) Class 09-08 at the NCO academy graduation field on 8 MAY 2008 Ft Bragg, NC. Under the cover of smoke and the sounds of the M-60 machine guns, 297 WLC graduates negotiated their way from the wood line into the parade field in front of family, friends & fellow comrades. SPC Antoinette is the daughter of High Chief Fuimaono Ponafala and Mrs Anna Suani Fuimaono of Vailotai & Leone AS.

The WLC trains enlisted soldiers in leadership, battle focused training and physical training utilizing the train the trainer concept. These soldiers have accepted the challenge to become noncommissioned officers and have undergone extensive training in the fundamentals necessary to become leaders in the Army.

CSM Lauro F Obeada, guest speaker for the day, emphasized the importance of being a leader in the U.S. Army. He reminded the graduates about the traits a leader in the Army should possess - Respect, Lead from the front, Troops first, and Guard your integrity. These leadership traits should always be kept in their kit-pack.

WLC is an MOS non-specific course that requires soldiers from combat arms, combat support, and combat service support to interact and work together as a team. These soldiers now have a better understanding of how each MOS is a vital part in the combined arms team. These soldiers are ready to return to their units eager to accept the challenges of leading, training and caring for the soldiers in their charge. The completion of this course will help SPC Ponafala be promoted to Sergeant (E-5) in the near future according to First Sergeant Baker.

Samoans at Ft Bragg were well represented during SPC Ponafala's graduation. Those who attended were Mrs Anna Suani Fuimaono Ponafala, Ann Margaret Taeario Ponafala Davis, SPC Michael Davis, Adelene Lagisoliatofagaotuimanu'a Ponafala, Alexandria Sinaitaaga Ponafala, Darius Kuresa Ponafala, Viliamu Ponafala Fina'i, CW5 Totolua "Koko" Yandall, CSM Tuileama Nua, SGM John Letuli, SGT Faasiusiuga Taumua, Lana Aga and MAJ Tauapai Laupola. The graduation was followed by a luncheon hosted by SPC Ponafala's mother, Mrs Anna Suani Fuimaono Ponafala. When asked on her feelings about this accomplishment, SPC Ponafala commented, "I want to thank the Samoan military community in Ft Bragg for supporting the Samoan soldiers and especially my parents for their love and support. To my father, HC Fuimaono Ponafala who is in Vailoa, AS, even though you are not physically here, I can feel your presence and can see your face from miles away."

Ft Bragg Welcomes Elisapeta Alaimaleata and Stephanie and Henry Cancinos
Written by MAJ Tauapai Laupola

"E lele a le toloa ae maau ile vai" (Birds of a feather flock together). This Samoan proverb is heard throughout any Samoan gathering around the world. The Toa o Samoa in Ft Bragg, NC and their families have made it their goal to welcome any Samoans that are stationed there or just passing through Fayetteville, NC. It is repeatedly heard that no matter where you go, people will always know you're a Samoan.

Samoans at Ft Bragg, NC were able to fellowship with Mrs Elisapeta Alaimaleata of Alofau, when she came to visit her husband SGT Keresema "Penu" Alaimaleata who is stationed at Ft Bragg, NC. "I have heard of how Samoans at Ft Bragg has taken an interest in morale, welfare & professional development of Samoan soldiers but to experienced it first hand meant a lot to me and my family."

On 19 April 2008, Samoans at Ft Bragg, NC came together to welcome Stephanie and Henry Cancinos and their son Lucas at the Laupola residence. Stephanie is the daughter of CSM (RET) Kaio Ah Hing of Tafuna and SFC (RET) Leah Ah Hing of Florida. The Cancinos family was accompanied by Stephanie's mother Leah and a friend of the family, SFC (RET) Simi Malepeai, who helped them drove from Ft Huachuca, AZ to Ft Bragg, NC .

CSM (RET) Kaio Ah Hing flew in to Fayetteville, NC from American Samoa enroute to a JROTC meeting at Ft Monroe, VA. He stopped at Ft Bragg to visit with his wife and children. CSM (RET) Ah Hing is the Senior Army Instructor at Fagaitua High School.

CSM (RET) Ah Hing expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Samoans that were able to be there to welcome his family.

Source: http://www.army.mil

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month Kicks Off With Ceremony

May 08, 2008
BY Cheryl Harrison

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas -- Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month is celebrated in May to commemorate the contributions of people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent in the United States. Congress passed a joint Congressional Resolution in 1978 to commemorate Asian American Heritage Week during the first week of May.

This date was chosen because two important anniversaries occurred during this time: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in America on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad (by many Chinese laborers) May 10, 1869. Congress voted to expand it from a week-long to a month-long celebration in May 1990.

As part of the annual tradition Fort Sam Houston publicly observed the achievements of Asian/Pacific Americans in a ceremony held May 6 at Army Community Service, with performances, a fashion show and food samplings. The theme for this year's celebration is "leadership, diversity, harmony, gateway to success."

Command Sgt. Maj. George Range III, 470th Military Intelligence Brigade, introducing the guest speaker, said "This is the high point of my career in introducing this man. He is a hero in every sense of the word. Command Sgt. Maj. Iuniasolua Savusa, which means June 2, the day he was born."

Keynote speaker for the ceremony, Savusa, from U.S. Army Europe and 7th Army, said, "I am a native of American Samoa and I am a Soldier." Savusa began his military career more than 30 years ago on June 17, 1975. An infantryman, he spent the majority of his career in infantry, ranger, air assault and airborne assignments prior to assuming duties as the USAREUR command sergeant major.

Following a brief history of the Asian/Pacific people and their immigration into our country, land of America dreams, Savusa said, "Life at times for these people was a nightmare rather than the American dream, but due to persistence and diligence they built the railroad, built businesses and grew to be major sectors of our society."

Ft Bragg Bid Farewell to Three Toa o Samoa & a Sister from the Kingdom of Tonga
Written by MAJ Tauapai Laupola

"May you travel with our Lord." This was the theme amongst the three separate gatherings to bid farewell to SPC Hana Moors, CPT Fitiuta Galeai, CPT Pili Faagai & MAJ Manu Yasuda. Supporting Samoan service members that pass through Ft Bragg, NC, and other states nearby is our goal commented Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) Totolua "Koko" Yandall, of Leone, AS, who is serving over 36 years in the U.S. Army. These sentiments were echoed during SPC Moors departure at Pope Air Force Base by Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Tuileama Nua, of Ta'u, Manu'a, serving over 30 years in the US Army. SPC Hana Moors was born and raised in Pavaia'i, American Samoa. She attended Pava'ia'i Elementary and Tafuna High School. She moved to Long Beach, CA with her mother Faaliga Moors after her freshman year and enlisted in the US Army after graduation.

SPC Moors is stationed at Ft Bragg and is deploying on a 15 month tour with Delta Battery, 3rd Battalion, 4th Air Defense Regiment. According to 1LT Oblon, Jonathan's, Rear Detachment Commander, SPC Moors is one of the best in his unit. She is tactically and technically proficient. When asked for parting comments, she replied, "please tell my mom not to worry and that I'll be OK."

Upon arrival in the war zone, SPC Moors sent the following email, "While I was sitting at my corner watching the people I was getting 'ready to deploy' with, something hit me. Every soldier is surrounded by families and friends; everywhere they turn, there was someone behind them, next to them, telling them, it's OK, come back safe, I'll be waiting for you. An abundance of hugs and kisses were evident everywhere while some are holding on to their love one's hands like they don't want to let go. And all of a sudden, my phone rang, once, twice then I picked it up. Out of no where a voice from the other end was saying "why didn't you tell us you're deploying today. We'll be there in a little bit." I didn't even know what just happen... to be honest I really didn't know who it was and 'why does this person have to come to my deployment' Now that I have a chance to absorb everything, I understand why I was sad that day until I saw you and CSM Nua. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart... if you & CSM Nua, SFC Alo-Steffany & Dayna and CPT Galea'i didn't show up, I'll probably be crying in the bathroom... but thank you for your love and support, it has given me courage and the strength to shed no tears and understands the value of family. Thank you and may God bless you and all Samoans at Ft Bragg. Signed Hana Toetu Moors.

CPT Fitiuta Galea'i re-deployed from Iraq in early March 2008, on his way back to American Samoa. He has been deployed since October 2006. As he reminisces about his tour, CPT Galea'i stated, "It was hard to leave my family, especially not knowing if that will be the last time I will see them." CPT Galea'i lost his father and his brother during his deployment to Iraq with the 351st Civil Affairs Command out of Mountain View, California. CPT Galea'i thanked all the Samoans at Ft Bragg who welcomed him in their homes and making his re-deployment a positive experience. The highlight of his redeployment at Ft Bragg was the trip to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Maryland in support of SFC Senetenari Polu who was a victim of an IED in Iraq.

CPT Pili Faagai of Futiga, AS arrived at Ft Bragg in early March 2008 in preparation for his deployment. He was born and raised in Futiga, American Samoa to Pili Faagai of Futiga and Pausea Faimeasoo of Fagaitua. He is a 1979 graduate of Marist Brother HS in Malaeloa, AS. CPT Faagai deployed with the 311th Expeditionary Support Command (ESC), USAR, out of Los Angeles, California as the Chief Communication Officer for the ESC. He is married to Alana Faagai of Hawaii and they have 5 children. Before he departed Ft Bragg, CPT Faagai commented, "I am amazed by the hospitality shown by senior Samoan military personnel at Ft Bragg. Their ability to host & support soldiers coming in and going out of Ft Bragg is a feat to strive for and a humble lesson for me. Their actions give substance to the biblical saying; 'friends for all seasons and kin in moments of crisis.' Thanks for your love and support."

Ft Bragg is fortunate to meet MAJ Manu Smith Yasuda who deployed with CPT Faagai out of the 311th ESC. MAJ Yasuda was born in Tonga to Sione Lauhaki and Nonu Mahoni and was later adopted by Bill and Carol Smith of San Diego, CA. Her adopted family moved to American Samoa in the late 1980s for a tour with the FAA. MAJ Yasuda graduated from Tafuna High School in 1988. She continued her education at ASCC and later transferred to the University of Hawaii (UH), Manoa where she received her commission in 1993. During this deployment, MAJ Yasuda will be the 311th ESC Current Operation, Night Battle Captain. She is a Command and General Staff Officer College graduate. MAJ Yasuda sends her alofa's to her alma mater in American Samoa as well as UH. Malo e lelei, Soifua, and God bless.

The following Samoans at Ft Bragg are providing the support group for Samoan soldiers that are stationed at "The Home of the Paratrooper & Special Operations": CW5 Totolua "Koko" Yandall & Gwen (Leone), SFC Taisi Steffany-Alo & Dayna (Fagasa/Poloa), SSG Taumua Faasi'usiuga (Poloa), SGM John Letuli (Futiga), SGT Doreen Fiaui (Amaua), SPC Rapi Leota & Emerald (Pago Pago/Fagasa), PFC Angel Fofoa (Leone), PFC Nephi Isumu (Nu'uuli), SPC Jeremiah Vaeotama (Fagaitua), SSG Derek Afalava & Violeta (Aoloau/Nuuuli), SGT Burgie Perofeta & Corinna (Tafuna/Afao & Leone), SPC Aliimau Kilisi (Auasi), Tiaseugogo Tiapula (Laulii), SGT Venus Taumanupepe (Utulei), Susuga Gafatasi Fuimaono Ponafala & Faletua Ana (Vailoa), Lucia Bartley & family (Tafuna), SGT Penu Alaimaleata & Peka (Alofau), SFC Fonoti Mata'utia (Poloa), SGT Monty Loa (Pago Pago), Fau Tufele, SPC Filemoni Fanuaea & Rosa (Tafuna), SPC Christina Auvaa (Laulii), PFC Bud Luuga (Indiana), SSG(P) Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano & Shannon (Falelatai/Pago Pago), SGT Michael Pless & Brenda, Elsa Talalemotu Smith & family (Fagaitua), CWO1 Tauasose Tupua & family (Vailoa), SSG Malua Malua & Katherine, Derrick & Nita Leomiti, (Pavaia'i & Vatia) CSM Tuileama Nua & Anita (Ta'u), MAJ Tauapai Laupola & Lana (Afono/Fagaitua & Pago Pago)

Honoring American Samoa with Flag Raising Ceremony in COB Adder, Iraq
By Easter Asi Bruce

As American Samoa awoke on 17 April to begin Flag Day celebrations, little did she know, on the same morning more than 12 hours earlier in the sandy desert of Iraq, a flag raising ceremony honoring and celebrating American Samoa's 108th year existence under the U.S. took place at Contingency Operating Base (COB) Adder, Iraq.

The 400th Combat Support Platoon (CSP) held a flag raising ceremony on COB Adder at 0800, 17 April (Baghdad time) to celebrate American Samoa's 108th birthday. The ceremony took place in front of the 7th Sustainment Brigade (7SB) with the 7SB Commander, COL Barbosa, and 7SB CSM, CSM McCorkle present as 1LT Wong-Mageo and SGT Mua Migi raised the American Samoa flag.

SSG Filoialii put together the brief but momentous program. Their ceremony opened with the singing of a prayer of thanksgiving, the favored hymn "Faafetai I Le Atua," led by SGT Ututoa. As the American Samoa Flag was being raised, the Soldiers of the 400th CSP sang the "Amerika Samoa Anthem." The platoon ended the program by singing "Lota Nu'u."

The flag raising idea was the brainchild of 1LTs Puletasi Wong-Mageo and Samuel Fruean. About a month ago, they brainstormed ideas for parting gifts to present to the 7SB from the platoon as they prepare to depart Iraq the latter part of May. After their chain of command approved their flag raising idea, they were asked for a specific date. The response 1LTs Wong-Mageo and Fruean unanimously came back with: 17th April. The American Samoa flag flown will be encased and a certificate signed by the 7SB and will be presented to the 7SB as a parting gift from the 400th Combat Support Platoon. The 400th CSP will re-mobilize to Ft. Hood in the latter part of May as the re-deployment process continues for these Soldiers as they make their way back to American Samoa in mid-June.

I contacted the unit and spoke with CPT Jackson, Executive Officer for 1015th Combat Support Maintenance Company, and asked for the leadership's response when they were broached with this flag raising idea, he basically told me, "we support 1LT Wong-Mageo 100%." According to Wong-Mageo, "I felt the need to have a flag raising ceremony to commemorate 108th year that the United States Flag was flown in American Samoa. Since then our young men and women have served since the first great war "WWI" and all the wars our nation has fought since then. Likewise, we wanted to show our patriotism to the United States as well as our Samoan Pride."

Soldiers of the 400th CSP involved in Flag Raising Ceremony

1. SSG Filoialii - Tau, Manua
2. SSG Mataese - Utulei, Tutuila
3. SSG Naiuli - Alofau, Tutuila
4. SSG Ueligitone - Tau, Manua & Alofau, Tutuila
5. SGT Migi - Masausi, Tutuila
6. SGT Vaapuu - Fagatogo & Amaua, Tutuila & Fitiuta, Manua
7. SGT Hirata - Pavaiai, Tutuila
8. SGT Ino - Utulei, Tutuila
9. SGT Moeolo - Vaitogi, Tutuila
10. SGT Tauanuu - Vaitogi, Tutuila
11. SGT Niusulu - Pago Pago, Tutuila
12. SPC Fosi - Fagaitua, Tutuila
13. SPC Sele - Masefau, Tutuila
14. SPC Talalemotu - Vatia, Tutuila
15. SPC Paama - Pago Pago, Tutuila
16. SPC Fetu - Nuuuli, Tutuila
17. SPC Eseroma - Vailoa, Tutuila
18. 1LT Wong-Mageo - Pago Pago & Leone, Tutuila

On behalf of the 400th CSP Soldiers, 1LT Puletasi Wong-Mageo would like to send their message of alofas and blessings to Governor Togiola and the people of American Samoa.

Talofa I lau Afioga le Kovana Sili,

E momoli atu alofaaga ma fa'amanuiaga mai fitafita uma ole 400th Combat Support Platoon i lau Afioga, Le Malo, faapea tagata nu'u uma o Amerika Samoa. Fa'amalo atu ua tatou aulia le Aso Fa'apitoa, le Sisiga Fu'a, a Amerika Samoa. Faafetai mo talosaga. O lo'o manuia uma i matou i Iraq.

Ia manuia tele le faamanatuina ole fu'a.

Alofaaga Mai Fitafita uma ole 400th Combat Support Platoon.

Soifua,
1LT Puletasi Wong-Mageo

Naturalization Ceremony at Camp Victory, Iraq
by Easter Bruce

On 12 April 2008, the first and largest overseas naturalization ceremony in history took place at Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory where over 250 U.S. service members raised their right hands in the heart of the war zone to take the oath of U.S. allegiance to become U.S. citizens. Participating in the historical event on the outskirts of Baghdad were six of our own Toa-O-Samoa: SSG Alumamalu A. Filoialii, SSG Maranata Temese, SGT Lauie A. Laban-Ilalio, PFC Thomas Eseroma, PFC Perry Fetu, and PFC Sialei Tapusini.

Presiding over the ceremony, LTG Lloyd J. Austin III, Commander XVIII Airborne Corps, eloquently conveys the strength of the United States of America: "Our nation's unique quality is that it weaves the world's cultures into a great American tapestry, and our military benefits from their strengths - thank you all for sacrificing so much for the United States and for the Iraqi people." Addressing the crowd's unique ethnic and cultural diversity as the group recited the oath of citizenship vowing to "bear arms on behalf of the United States," each service member was then called to the front of the room to receive a certificate of citizenship and a folded American flag.

Traveling from Tallil Airbase, southwest of Baghdad, were members of the 400th Combat Support Platoon (CSP): 1LT Puletasi Wong-Mageo, SSG Alumamalu A. Filoialii, PFC Thomas Eseroma and PFC Perry Fetu. 1LT Wong-Mageo is the 400th CSP Commander and traveled with his soldiers in support of this historical event. According to Wong-Mageo, "I have been involved from the beginning when we inquired about the US Citizenship process - obtaining information, completing and filing the applications, following-up with the legal office and sometimes with the Nebraska and Rome Offices for status. Also to represent the Soldiers families and friends, as well as Soldiers of the 400th CSP who could not witness this special event. I was there for them."

The 400th CSP deployed last June from American Samoa to Ft. Hood, TX, where they mobilized as a plug in platoon for the 1015th Combat Support Maintenance Company from Ft. Gillem, GA. They arrived in Iraq back in August 2007 and are scheduled to re-deploy the third week of May.

1LT Wong-Mageo is the proud son of Mele Fili Mageo of Pago Pago and Hikan Wong from China; however, it was the late High Talking Chief Meauta Onosa'i Atufili Mageo of Pago Pago that raised Wong-Mageo. Although born in Pago Pago, he was raised in Upolu in the villages of Solosolo and Fagali'i. Today, he resides in Leone with his lovely wife and children.

SSG Filoialii is a Reverend hailing from Ta'u Manu'a; PFC Eseroma is the proud son of Jeanne and Lefanoga hailing from village of Vailoa; PFC Fetu is the proud son of Tafi Peneueta and Maneta Fetu and hails from Nu'uli. PFC Fetu shares his thoughts prior to returning to Tallil Airbase. "I love being a soldier because of the camaraderie, but getting my U.S. citizenship will provide more opportunities."

Two service members of the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) deployed from Ansbach Germany traveled from Camp Taji to participate in this historical event: SSG Temese and PFC Tapusini.

SSG Temese hails from Upolu, the villages of Falealili Satalo and Moata'a; he is married to Leaiseaiga A'asa of Iliili, American Samoa. He deployed with Golf Company, 12th CAB, of which he is a platoon sergeant for the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Launch and Recovery Site (LRS) Unit at Camp Taji.

PFC Tapusini, although hails from Faga'alu, American Samoa, she was raised in Leauva'a, Upolu and Manase, Savaii. She is the proud daughter of Lalolama and Lemana Tapusini. Tapusini is a Human Resource Specialist within the Headquarters Company of the 12th CAB based at Camp Taji.

SGT Laban-Ilalio also received her certificate of citizenship. SGT Ilalio is assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) 202d Bridgade Support Battalion (BSB) 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division out of Ft Lewis, Washington. She hails from Lauli'i, American Samoa. Ilalio is the proud daughter of Alosio Aukuso Laban of Portsmouth, Virginia and Taufusi, Samoa and the late Loretta Laban of Falealupo, Savaii and Lauli'i American Samoa. She is married to Savelio Ilalio (Amouli) and they have a one year old son, Alosio Lucsa Ilalio.

Chaplain (MAJ) Vaioa Leau, of the Multi-National Corps - Iraq (MNC-I) Regimental Support Squadron (RSS)/ 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment (SCR) Headquarters and Headquarters Troops (HHT), Camp Stryker attended this momentous occasion to support the Samoan service members in this notable feat.

Leau was born in the village of Solosolo, Samoa but grew up in the village of Pago Pago, American Samoa. After graduating from Samoana High School and American Samoa Community College, Leau continued his educational studies obtaining a Masters in Theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, Texas. Chaplain (MAJ) Leau is an ordained Southern Baptist Minister. He is married to the former Lana Sanders of Roanoke, Virgina, and they have a beautiful 7 year-old daughter named Leulua'itama'itai.

After meeting with these soldiers and posing for pictures, Chaplain (MAJ) Leau shared his closing thoughts:

I am very proud of all the Samoan men and women who are serving in the military and their extraordinary contribution to our nation's defense. I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation and sincere thanks to the people of American Samoa and Samoa for their prayers and thoughts for Samoan Soldiers. Let us continue to praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy on all of us. "Faamalo le Tapuai."

Bronze Star awarded to SSG Sualauvi Tuimaleali'ifano III
Written by MAJ Laupola

The Bronze Star Medal was awarded to SSG Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano on February 14, 2008, by the 1/3, 3rd Special Forces Group for actions under fire while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force. LTC Ruth, Leo, 96th Civil Affairs Battalion Commander, presented the Bronze Star Medal to SSG Tuimalealiifano. The citation below summarizes all of SSG Tuimalealiifano's accomplishments for the Bronze Star Medal.

Sualauvi Tuimaleali'ifano , United States Army, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious service as Team Engineer, Civil Affairs Team Alpha (CAT-A) 644, Task Force 31, Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 22 August 2006 to 15 March 2007. SSG Tuimaleali'ifano was instrumental in the proper execution of civil military operations during combat to support the Commander's intent for southeast Zabol Province.

He greatly enhanced Coalition Forces capability to gain popular support for the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (IROA) and the Afghanistan National Security Forces (ANSF). SSG Tuimaleali'ifano conducted over 20 Joint combat reconnaissance patrols with Operational Detachment Alpha 314 and the Afghanistan National Army (ANA), assisting the Detachment in disrupting enemy fighters and their robust support network in Shinkay, Nawbahar, Shamulzai, Atghar, Maruf.

SSG Tuimaleali'ifano supervised a number of critical projects in the Shinkay area to include construction of more than 10 wells and irrigation canals and the development of the Lura Rod bridge project to ensure that the main road between Shinkay and Qalat remained open to vehicle traffic. Additionally, SSG Tuimaleali'ifano personally managed CAT-A 644's 40 thousand dollars of Operational Fund and over 100 thousand dollars of the Commander's Emergency Relief Project (CERP) fund that helped to improve the local villages, schools and healthcare facilities of the Zabol Province.

SSG Tuimaleali'ifano served as a liaison with numerous government and non-government organizations to include the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). SSG Tuimaleali'ifano was instrumental in synchronizing and executing a number of projects on behalf of the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Qalat. In addition, SSG Tuimaleali'ifano's ability to resource and execute projects under austere conditions was vital to hastily implementing high impact projects such as the flood control system in Asrafkhel, Zabol Province, a project that immediately provided relief for over 200 citizens in a tactically significant area.

SSG Tuimaleali'ifano also assisted in the training, development, and application of an ANA civil affairs team which facilitated the ANA's ability to develop a better relationship with the Shinkay population, distribute humanitarian aid, and generate more information about enemy activity in the area. SSG Tuimaleali'ifano's performance during combat operations was outstanding. His diligence, work ethic and dedication to every mission led to the Detachment's mission success in the Shinkay area. His achievements reflect distinct credit upon himself, the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan, Special Operations Command Central, and the United States Army.

Toward the end of his tour, while engaging with the enemy, SSG Tuimalealiifano sustained spinal injuries that paralyzed him from his neck to his feet. He was medivac out of the war zone to Walter Reed Army Medical Center and later moved to Tampa, FL Veteran Administration Hospital for spinal injuries physical therapy and in late March 2008, he was moved to Atlanta, Georgia, VA Hospital for advance physical therapy.

Due to tremendous outpour of love and support for SSG Tuimalealiifano during his stay in Tampa, FL, his parents, Reverend Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano (Falelatai, Samoa) and Sosefina Ativalu Seui (Nu'uuli, AS & Safotu, Samoa) traveled to Tampa, FL and thanked all those who have visited and cared for their son since August 2007.

As a token of appreciation, Reverend Tuimalealiifano & wife presented Fine Mats (Ie o Auafa) to Lamasi Peterika for the Samoan community in Tampa, FL, to express their heartfelt appreciation for the love and support rendered to their son. Like wise, Reverend Tuimalealiifano presented the Fine Mat, Ie o le Auafa, Tapaau o le Talalelei, to MAJ Tauapai Laupola for Samoan service members and their families at Ft Bragg, who have led the support group for SSG Tuimalealiifano.

SSG Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano II is married to Shannon Asuega Fatuesi Tuimalealiifano of Pago Pago, AS. They are blessed with two sons, Sualauvi Moeva & Aumalaga Ativalu, and a daughter, Aolele Mialani. Shannon and her children are residing at Ft Bragg, NC and commute to visit SSG Tuimalealiifano.

Maua e SSG Sualauvi Tuimaleali'ifano III le pine ole Bronze Star
Tusia e MAJ Tauapai Laupola

O le Pine o le Bronze Star a le Ami sa tauaaoina atu ia SSG Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano ia Fepuari 14, 2008, mai le vaega a le 1/3, 3rd Special Forces (Vaega faapitoa e faia osofaiga a le Ami) ona o ia o se totino o lenei vaega sa tete'eina le fili i le taua sa faia i Afakanisitana mai ia Aukuso 2006-Mati 2007. O lenei faailoga sa tauaaoina atu e le ta'ita'i au a le 96th Civil Affairs, LTC Ruth, Leo. O faamaumauga o lo'o tusia i lalo e aofia uma ai matati'a a lenei fo'i alo o Samoa ae le'i faataotolia lona gasegase e tusa o manu'a na lavea ai o ia i le tafa o taua i Afakanisitana.

E matautia matati'a sa ausia e lenei Toa o Samoa, SSG Sualauvi Tuimaleali'ifano, le vaega faapitoa a le Ami, a'o avea o ia ma totino o le Civil Affairs Team Alpha (CAT-A) 644, Task Force 31, Malae vaalele a Kandahar, Afakanisitana ona o le sapaia o le, taua, Sailiga o le Filemu mai ia Aukuso 22, 2006 ia Mati 15, 2007. Sa iloga le agava'a o SSG Tuimaleali'ifano i lona faatautaia lea o misiona e sapaia ai le latou ta'ita'i 'au i le itu i Saute o le itumalo o Zabol.

Sa iloga le atamai o lenei alo o Samoa i aga ma faiaga e maua ai le galulue faatasi o la na vaega ma vaega'au a le Islamic Republic o Afakanisitana ma le vaega a Leoleo a lea fo'i atunu'u. E ova i le 20 ni misiona na au atu ai SSG Tuimaleali'ifano faatasi ma vaega'au a Afakanisitana e sailia le fili i lalo o le vaavaiga a le Operational Detachment Alpha 314 ma le Ami a Afakanisitana ia tulia ese ai le fili ma ana 'au i aai o Shinkay, Nawbahar, Shamulzai, Atghar, Maruf.

Sa i lalo fo'i o le ta'itaiga a SSG Tuimaleali'ifano ni galuega ta'ua aua le faaleleia o le aai o Shinkay e aofia ai le fausiaina o vaieli ma alavai e 10, faapea le fausiaina o le auala laupapa i Lura Rod aga'i atu i Oalat ina ia tatalaina pea aua le femalagaina a tagata lautele. I le ma lea sa faapea fo'i ona faatautaia e SSG Tuimaleali'ifano ia tupe a le latou vaega CAT-A 644's e tusa o le $40,000.00 tala faatasi ai ma isi tupe e tusa ma le $100,000.00 e faaoga mo mea e tutupu faafuase'i aua le faaleleia o nu'u, aoga, falema'i i le itumalo o Zabol.

Sa fai lava ia SSG Tuimaleali'ifano ma sui a le latou vaega i fonotaga a le Militeri ma isi vaega eseese o lo'o galulue i Afakanisitana i lea fo'i taimi. Sa vaia fo'i e SSG Tuimaleali'ifano le galuega o le toe faaleleia o le aai o Oalat, lea sa iai le Provisional Reconstruction Team (PRT). E le'i fo'i lava ia SSG Tuimaleali'ifano i galuega e tusa lava po'o le a le fita ma le mauga o nu'u a'o nonofo ai ni tagata, e taumafai lava ia e faia ia mea e saogalemu ai nei tagata nu'u.

Sa fesoasoani fo'i ia SSG Tuimaleali'ifano i le ao'a'oina o le Ami a Afakanisitana ma taumafai lava ia maua le agaga o le galulue faatasi o le Ami a Amerika ma Afakanisitana ia tulia ma faato'ilaloina le fili ia ia nu'u. E ese le tele o matati'a a'o galuega lelei sa faia e lenei toa o Samoa, SSG Tuimaleali'ifano. O lona faamaoni, galue malosi faatasi ai ma le toa o lona loto, o lea ua manuia ai le tele o misiona a le latou vaega.

Ae le'i toe fo'i mai le latou vaega mai le taua i Afakanisitana, sa faapea ona lavea ia SSG Tuimalealiifano ma le toe mafai ai ona savali o ia. Sa faapea ona tili mai ona manu'aga i Amerika ia Aukuso 2008, ma faataotolia ai lona gasegase i Falema'i i Walter Reed, ona siitia atu lea i le Falema'i a le VA i Tampa Florida e gafa ia fo'i itua'iga gasegase o le ivi tu. Ae o le faai'uga o Mati na toe si'itia atu ai o ia i le Falema'i a le VA i Atlanta, ina ua vaai le sologa lelei o si ona malosi faatasi mai ma gaoioiga o si ona tino.

Ona o le tele o e na alolofa atu ia SSG Tuimalealiifano a'o faataotolia lona gasegase i Tampa Florida, o lea na malaga mai ai ona matua, le Susuga i le Faafeagaiga ia Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano (Falelatai, Samoa) ma lona Faletua, Sosefina Ativalu Seui (Nu'uuli, AS & Safotu, Samoa) e asia o ia ma faafetaia i latou uma na alolofa i lo la alo a'o faataotolia lona gasegase i nu'uese.

Sa tala Ie o Auafa e puipui ai le galuega a le Atua ma tauaaoina atu ia Lamasi Peterika mo Samoa uma i Tampa, Florida, o e na alolofa atu i lo la alo. Sa saunoa faapitoa ai le Susuga i le Faafeagaiga ia Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano ma tu'uina atu le Ie o le Auafa, "Tapaau o le Talalelei, o le toga lea na momoli ai Sualauvi i Matamatanonofo, Falelatai o le aiga o lona tama; mai Sapapalii le aiga o lona tina o Tuitofa Malietoa ia Ti'a, le mea na fanau ai ua tuuina atu e le Faifeau o Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano & le Faletua ia Sosefina Ativalu mo Major Tauapa'i Laupola, ona o ia sa taulamua ma faamaopoopo i latou uma sa asia ma agalelei ile taoto ai o lo la atalii o Sualauvi Malua Tuimalealiifano ona o manu'a sa lavea ai ile tafa i Afakanisitana i a Aukuso 2007, faaalia ai le loto faafetai, loto fiafia ma le olioli ole Faifeau i e uma aemaise aiga militeli i Ft. Bragg N.C. e tusa ai o upu a le Faifeau ua outou faia le finagalo o Iesu aua ua outou asiasi ma outou agalelei ile atalii ua manu'a i nuu ese aemaise le leai o se aiga i nei atunuu ae ua avea lo outou agalelei ma le alofa ma le amanaia o aoaoga faa-auro a lo tatou Alii o Iesu ua mafua ai lo outou agalelei ma le alolofa i fanau ua manunu'a ile ala."

O SSG Sualauvi Tuimalealiifano o lo'o faaipoipo ia Shannon Asuega Fatuesi o Pago Pago, AS, e toatolu le la fanau, o tama e to'alua, Sualauvi Moeva IV ma Aumalaga Ativalau ma le teine o Aolele Mialani. O lo'o nonofo i latou ma si o latou tina o Shannon Tuimalealiifano i Ft Bragg, NC ma tausavali e asi ia le tama o le aiga.