[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 143 (Tuesday, October 6, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                REGARDING THE TSUNAMI IN AMERICAN SAMOA

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                        HON. HENRY E. BROWN, JR.

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 6, 2009

  Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as the Ranking Republican 
Member of the Natural Resources Subcommittee of Insular Affairs, Oceans 
and Wildlife, which has jurisdiction over the U.S. territories, 
including American Samoa, I was saddened to hear of the severe 
devastation that occurred after a tsunami hit the island. My deepest 
sympathies go out to the island nation of 65,000 people.
  News outlets are reporting that four tsunami waves 15 to 20 feet high 
roared ashore on American Samoa. Many of the island towns are located 
near the sea and the devastation that followed the tsunami event 
appears to be immense, with pictures of the island showing buildings 
destroyed, cars and boats displaced and the local people trying to 
recover. The island is without power and water at this time as it is in 
the early stages of the recovery effort. Sadly, it has been reported 
that many people have lost their lives and the casualty numbers may 
increase as the recovery effort expands.
  Madam Speaker, it is my understanding that the airport and sea port 
are open and emergency supplies and assistance are en route to the 
island. The Coast Guard will be inspecting the sea port and is bringing 
in much needed medical and other necessary supplies from Hawaii. In 
addition, the USS Ingram is headed to the island to assist with medical 
support, rescue efforts and water needs. Shelters are open on the 
island to assist displaced citizens and efforts are under way to clear 
roadways. It will most likely take months to recover from this event 
and we should do all we can to help assist and support American Samoa 
in their recovery from this tsunami.
  I had the privilege of traveling to American Samoa where I received 
the utmost hospitality. My thoughts and prayers are with their people 
as they cope with the effects of this sudden natural disaster.

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