Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In declaring today, Monday, May 31st, as the Memorial Day holiday in American Samoa, Gov. Lemau Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga encouraged the public to “honor the memories of our fallen heroes” during this three-day weekend.

“Memorial Day is a time to commemorate the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in our great nation,” the governor said in a May 24th memorandum. “I encourage you all to take time this weekend to honor the memory of our fallen heroes who selflessly laid down their lives to ensure our safety and protect our freedom.”

Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day — formerly known as Decoration Day — commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in military service.

Extended to a three-day weekend, it is a federal and local holiday for most of the nation’s workers. It is also the official start of the summer.

National observance of Memorial Day is marked by the U.S. President placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.

Memorial Day in American Samoa marks the day our community remembers all our loved ones who have passed on, and the Memorial Day weekend activities include cleaning, painting and decorating gravesites island-wide. By Monday morning, flowers — fresh and plastic — along with other decorations will adorn the island’s graves.

A common sight throughout the territory today will be U.S. and American Samoa flags flying over many of the gravesites paying tribute to our fallen soldiers.

In their Memorial Day message, Gov. Lemanu Peleti Mauga,  and Lt. Gov. Talauega Eleasalo Va’alele Ale said:

“Memorial Day brings respect and a sense of history as we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and to whom we owe a debt that we can never repay. We are honored to join in solemn remembrance of the long line of brave men and valiant women who have given their last full measure of devotion in support of freedom.

“Let us take a moment this Memorial Day to remember the fallen Toa o Samoa, whose dedication of duty is a true testament of selfless service. As we honor their memory, let us continue to reflect on the unwavering commitment and patriotism of our fallen heroes, whose act of valor has allowed for our people to live entire lives basked in freedom. We extend our prayers for God’s grace, strength, and comfort to the families of these heroes.

“President Ronald Reagan once said, ‘Their lives remind us that freedom is not bought cheaply. It has a cost, it imposes a burden.’ On this day, and every day after, I urge that we continue to tell their stories and remember the names of these brave individuals.

“On behalf of Lieutenant Governor Talauega and our families, we thank all the servicemen and servicewomen who courageously gave their lives in exchange for our freedom. Their commitment will never be forgotten. Their bravery is the pinnacle of patriotism. Their sacrifice has secured the liberties we enjoy.

“They are the reason we memorialize today. “

With today a holiday, all government offices are closed and normal activities are suspended. Employees not required to perform essential service shall be excused from their duties, according to the governor. Those required to work, will receive holiday wages in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

A majority of businesses are also closed today including StarKist Samoa cannery, the two local financial institutions and the US Post Office — along with other local federal offices.

In honor of Memorial Day, Samoa News will not have a print edition today. .  Have a safe and blessed Memorial Day.