Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — All 17 senators in attendance at last Friday's regular session unanimously confirmed Frederick Unasa Ledoux as the Chief Procurement Officer for the American Samoa Government.

The confirmation followed his appearance before the Senate Government Operations Committee, chaired by Senator Togiola T.A. Tulafono. During the brief hearing, Ledoux received advice, heartfelt blessings and commendations, particularly recognizing his commendable military service.

Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean praised Ledoux as a true son of Pago Pago, highlighting his military service and his return home following his retirement from the U.S. Army. Since his return, Ledoux has become deeply involved in village affairs as a member of the Aumaga, earning admiration and respect within the community.

Tuaolo noted that Ledoux currently serves as the Treasurer of their village Aumaga and is a good role model for the younger village youth. He also called him his right-hand man during village events.

The Senate President emphasized that the Territory owes a great debt of gratitude to its sons and daughters who have risked their lives in service to the armed forces, acknowledging that some have made the ultimate sacrifice. He said some, like Ledoux, have returned home to continue their service to the government and people of American Samoa.

Senator Gaoteote Palaie Tofau, himself an Army veteran, echoed Tuaolo's sentiments with an emotional tribute to Ledoux's military service. Reflecting on his own time in the US Armed Forces, he recalled how they were regarded as sons and expressed gratitude that individuals like Ledoux have chosen to return home to serve the Territory.

'We need good leaders today more than ever,' Gaoteote emphasized.

He also extended his appreciation to the administration for recognizing the contributions of military men and women who have returned home and entrusted them with leadership roles. Gaoteote urged Ledoux to rise to the occasion, reminding him to be a leader, not just a manager.

Senator Tuana'itau Malaki Togiola expressed how deeply moved he was to witness Senator Gaoteote on the verge of tears and in a heartfelt gesture, he moved a motion to excuse Ledoux.

Committee Chairman Senator Togiola Tulafono concluded by highlighting the senators' collective confidence in Ledoux. This confidence, he noted, stemmed from the compelling endorsements by the Senate President and Senator Gaoteote, as well as Ledoux's impressive resume.

Togiola urged the Acting Director to lead with love and integrity, and to always seek God's guidance in his service.

In response, Ledoux expressed his gratitude for the senators' advice and pledged to honor their guidance if confirmed.

"I will not be a manager, I will be a leader," he declared. "I will serve our government with dignity and respect, and I will not take your advice lightly."

Samoa News should point out that Ledoux is the current administration’s second choice for Chief Procurement Officer.

Then Acting Chief Procurement Officer Kenneth Kuaea's involvement in a company called Klaod Solutions Inc., put him in a difficult position when he appeared before the Senate Government Operations Committee on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025 for confirmation.