American Samoa Army Reservists Become U.S. Citizens
Pago Pago –Monday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata, joined a group of Army Reservists on Monday for their induction ceremony to officially become United States citizens.
The newly inducted citizens take the oath of allegiance
Congresswoman Amata and Lt. Soo Moliga following the ceremony
The emotional ceremony included remarks from several guest speakers, including Congresswoman Amata and other leaders from the island, and U.S. Army. The new citizens were also presented with a certificate to mark the momentous occasion.
The 31 newly naturalized citizens include: LamekoLualemaga, Suttermemory Faamao Talamoni, Misifoa Umi, Malele Kitiona, Josh faamagalo Puni, Jermaine Tipeni Tuiasosopo, Josephine Meafou Salipopo, Ruth Titiula Faatiga, Harota Jamil Fruean, Filisi Edgar Filisi, Tuifao Ramsey Esera, Gauula Faliu Moemoe, Lagilelei Apoiliu Moliga, Ulysses Ioane, Kim Young Kyu, Pala Tupufua Lefiti, Sefika Sefika, Elmer Tuifiti Titania, Tuluiga Richard Salanoa, Travis Tiualii Viena, Faiupu Faiupu Tagaleoo, Betty Rosanne Wells, Sigago Sina Samiu, Nainiu Fiapito Aliitaeao, Megan Ashley Shimasaki, Peteru Kitiona Lam Yuen, Tavita Piula Poutoa, Lafi Tuivaiti, Jr., Epitacio Aguimbagz Jr., Toia Levao Jr., and Solomona Nimoy Iatala.
The following is an excerpt from the Congresswoman's remarks.
"For over 200 years, the United States has been a shining beacon of hope and prosperity to the multitudes of immigrants, dreamers, and entrepreneurs who have sought out a life of opportunity through hard work and one that is free from the tyranny of oppression.
A true "melting pot" of diversity, our great nation holds true to those values that let men and women of all creeds and color seek a better life for themselves and their families. A land where one can truly become whatever they desire, so far as they put forth the effort and are determined to succeed," stated Amata during the opening remarks.
"As I look across the faces of those here with us today, I stand confident and proud with you all; knowing that you will be excellent representatives of American Samoa as United States citizens. Your service and sacrifices have allowed for this opportunity and I can think of none more deserving of the title of United States citizen, than those who have stood in her defense, even before being granted full rights as a citizen.
The United States is truly an exceptional country, and that is due to the exceptional nature of its people. Well, I can say that today, our republic is a little stronger and even more exceptional, due to the addition of these fine men and women who will now be U.S. citizens," continued Amata.
This is the third in a series of similar ceremonies that allows for U.S. Army Reservists and active duty service members who reside in American Samoa to obtain U.S. citizenship while on the island.
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