Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Manu’a High School JROTC and CCCAS Pulega FaleTa’u are proud to announce the inaugural Veterans Day event dedicated to honoring the courageous veterans from the Manu’a Islands. 

This significant event is scheduled on Tuesday in Ta’u, Manu’a. The honoring ceremony has been organized by the Manu’a High School Segaula JROTC in partnership with Reverend Toeaina Ekitoa Sopoaga of the CCCAS in Ta’u, Manu’a, to celebrate the veterans from Manu’atele and thanking them for their sacrifices and services.

The event will commence with a parade, followed by a church service.

According to the program, the Task Force Parade will begin at the CCAS Ta’u Hall located at Lumā Point. Cadet CSM Tevaseu will proudly lead the Task Force, accompanied by Commander Ve’e and the Color Guard, as they march in formation toward the CCAS Church in Matafele, showcasing a display of unity and respect.

During the ceremony, TFC Ve’e will have the honor of escorting the Manu’atele veterans and their families into the church, highlighting the community's gratitude for their service. CSM Tevaseu will lead the Color Guard, while TFC Ve’e expertly oversees the formal posting of the U.S. Flag, the American Samoa Flag, and the Manu’atele Flag, a symbol of pride and heritage.

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, carries profound historical significance as it marks the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. This day serves a dual purpose: it not only signifies the conclusion of a crucial chapter in global history but also underscores the vital importance of honoring America's veterans, who have served selflessly.

These brave individuals have demonstrated extraordinary patriotism, an unwavering love for their country, and a steadfast commitment to serving and sacrificing for the greater good. On this day, we take the opportunity to recognize their valor and dedication, acknowledging the invaluable contributions they have made to uphold freedom and security. Through heartfelt ceremonies, grand parades, and moments of solemn reflection, we celebrate their enduring legacy and reaffirm our gratitude for their service, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Governor Pulaalii N. Pula has officially declared that Veterans Day will be celebrated as a public holiday in American Samoa on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

This special day offers us a significant opportunity to honor and express our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who have selflessly served our nation, demonstrating remarkable courage and unwavering dedication in the face of adversity.

On Veterans Day, all government offices in American Samoa will be closed, and standard operations will be suspended to allow individuals time to reflect and pay tribute to our veterans. Employees of the American Samoa Government who are not assigned to essential services will be excused from their duties for the day. Employees who are required to maintain essential functions will receive holiday pay, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, ensuring they are fairly compensated for their commitment.

He concluded that as we observe this significant holiday, let us take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy as a result of the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout our history. Their bravery has preserved the ideals of our democracy and the rights we hold dear. Thank you for your ongoing hard work and dedication. I wish everyone a safe, meaningful, and enjoyable Veterans Day.

According to the organizers this is the first time the Veterans in Manu'a will host such a ceremony.