[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 19]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 26317]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         AMERICAN SAMOA TSUNAMI

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ENI F.H. FALEOMAVAEGA

                           of american samoa

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 29, 2009

  Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, one month ago, the U.S. Territory of 
American Samoa was struck by the world's most powerful earthquake of 
2009, which set off a tsumani that left untold damage and loss. Once 
more, I want to thank the Obama administration, the U.S. Congress, and 
our friends in the House and Senate, including the Hawaii Delegation 
and the Territorial Delegates who have stood by us every step of the 
way.
  I especially thank Senator Daniel K. Inouye, HI, Senator Daniel K. 
Akaka, HI, Congressman Neil Abercrombie, HI, Congresswoman Mazie 
Hirono, HI, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, GU, Congressman Gregorio 
Kilili Camacho Sablan, MP, Congresswoman Donna Christensen, VI, and 
Congressman Pedro Pierluisi, PR for their unwavering support.
  I also thank the many foreign nations and non-government 
organizations who have been so generous in helping us rebuild.
  I also want to recognize Cathy Barnhardt of the Combined Airline 
Ticket Office, CATO, and those at the United Airlines government desk 
including Debbie Smith and Darlene Sacha, and also Debbie Trance-
Mordecai of United Global Services at the JFK airport in New York for 
the outstanding service they provide at all times.
  Above all, I pay tribute to the people of American Samoa for the 
strength, courage and faith they have shown in the face of adversity. 
My heart also continues to go out to the families of those who have 
lost loved ones, and I ask for your continued support and prayers on 
their behalf.
  Again, I express my sincere gratitude for everyone, named and 
unnamed, for lending us a hand when we need it most. I appreciate your 
kindness and assure you that the people of American Samoa are grateful 
for your service.

                          ____________________