Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Speaking at Thursday’s cabinet meeting, under a tent at the Su’igaula o le Atuvasa Beach Park in Utulei, Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga informed cabinet directors, that the Governor’s Office is preparing for a visit by the US Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Robert Wilkie, who is arriving next week.

He said the Office of Samoan Affairs is charged with setting the program for the Secretary’s visit, including the usual airport arrival and traditional welcoming protocol.

Lolo’s remarks came after LBJ Medical Center chief executive officer, Faumuina John Faumuina informed cabinet members that the hospital has been informed that Wilkie will be visiting LBJ next week.

Faumuina said the scheduled visit is for 10:40a.m on July 31st and LBJ will share with the VA secretary the programs and services the Hospital is able to provide for veterans.

Two ASG officials told Samoa News yesterday that after the LBJ meeting, there will be  public forums to provide the opportunity for veterans to address their needs to the VA Secretary.

As of yesterday afternoon, LBJ was the only ASG entity that will meet with Wilkie, who has been serving as VA Secretary since last year, according to the officials, who noted that the agenda and program for the visit is being firmed up.

It’s unclear at this point if the ASG Department of Health will be involved in the discussions with LBJ.