OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
(for immediate release – April 13, 2007)

Contact: Pati Faiai, Chief of Staff
Contact Number: 633-4116

Governor Togiola mourns death of
Sgt. Raymond S. Seva’aetasi in Iraq

(UTULEI) – Governor Togiola Tulafono, in Honolulu awaiting return to the Territory on Sunday night, expressed his sincere condolences on hearing of the death of another Samoan soldier in Iraq.

Governor Togiola today received word from the Department of the Army of “the loss of Sergeant Raymond S. Seva’aetasi, 29, of Pago Pago and Leone, American Samoa, who died on April 11, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. According to initial reports, Sergeant Seva’aetasi, assigned to the 15th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Calvary Division, in Fort Hood, Texas, died when an improvised explosive device detonated near his military vehicle.”

Governor Togiola extends heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his family.

“On behalf of the people of American Samoa, Mary and I extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Sgt. Seva’aetasi, a true warrior who was very proud of his service to the

Territory and to America. Again, we mourn the death of a native son who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the preservation of freedom that we continue to enjoy daily. May God provide comfort to his parents –Tuala and Leata Seva’aetasi, family and friends during this difficult time.”