Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata has requested the United States Army consider options for Army recruit required physical examinations in American Samoa, which are currently held up by COVID-related travel restrictions between Hawaii and American Samoa. The letter, dated November 12th, is addressed to Major General Kevin Vereen of U.S. Army Recruiting Command.

“It has been brought to my attention that constituents of mine, who wish to serve in the U.S. Army, have not been able to receive their physical examination required to attend recruit training due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions between American Samoa and Hawai’i,” Amata states. “Usually, physicians fly to the territory to conduct these examinations. American Samoa has multiple physicians that can conduct these examinations, including one who is TRICARE certified, in addition to our physicians at the local VA clinic.”

“Our office has been informed that they have submitted a request to the 6th Recruiting BDE, to allow them to conduct these examinations, but have received no response,” she continued. “I humbly ask you to look into this matter and help expedite the request of these physicians to conduct these examinations.”

“American Samoa has the highest enlistment rate of any state or territory, and our young men and women are eager to serve. I appreciate any help you can provide to expedite this process,” she concluded, before she closed with contact information and fa’afetai tele lava.