Aumua Encouraged by Upcoming Visit of VA Officials to American Samoa

Washington, D.C. – Monday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata, "I want to thank Secretary McDonald for his and the departments' interest in our island's veterans," stated Amata. "It is essential that these high level VA officials and decision makers see first-hand the needs of our local veterans," continued Amata.

Image

From June 22 – 26, the VA's Western Region Directors will be in American Samoa to tour the island's VA facilities, conduct a town hall meeting with local veterans in order to get a better understanding of the needs of our veterans who call American Samoa home. (More information regarding the town-hall meeting will be released as it becomes available).

Traditionally, the Insular Areas have had a tough time getting the same resources and outreach efforts when compared to the states in regards to VA support. As a member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Congresswoman Amata has made it one of her top priorities to ensure that the Insular Areas and American Samoa specifically are no longer "forgotten" by the department.

"I am encouraged by the VA and the actions they are taking to make sure that all of our veterans are receiving the benefits and services they have so rightfully earned. I am especially optimistic about our island's future in regards to the services available to our veterans. While this is just the first step in my mission to improve both access and the quality of services that our local veterans are receiving, it is an important one, because it gives those VA officials a first-hand account of the island's needs. Under Secretary McDonald's leadership; with new legislation and guidance from Congress, the VA is on the right path to fulfilling its' mission to our veterans," concluded Amata.

# # #