Remembering the 34 Victims of 2009 Quake & Tsunami

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They say time heals but listening to parents, children and siblings of the 34 women, men and children who perished in the 2009 earthquake and tsunami recall the tragedy that befell the territory that day, and longing to see their loved ones, it’s clear that time hasn’t erased the pain.

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Some of the relatives of those who were taken away by the ravishing waters of  one of the worst tragedies  that American Samoa has ever experienced…the 2009 earthquake and tsunami,  recounting painful memories of that tragic day.

The annual memorial Service hosted by the Pago Pago Rotary club and Hawaiian Air in remembrance of the victims and giving hope to their families was held Saturday at the Tsunami Memorial Shelter at Lions Park. Tsunami memorial Margie & Jackie

Lt. Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga and First Lady Cynthia Moliga were among the dignitaries, with Dr Jueta McCutchan of Human and Social Services, Marvis  Vaiagae representing Hawaiian Air,  and Rep. Vui Florence Saulo.

tsunami memorial marvisThey were welcomed by Rotary Club President Margie Tafiti who lost her niece Sabrina in the tsunami.

Saturday was the first time Tafiti has ever spoken publicly about her harrowing experience.

Her message to the gathering was dont miss the opportunity to say, “I love you.”

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Lt Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga  called those whose lives were taken heroes and  said it is fitting that the community remember them each year. tsunami memorial lemanu

Tsunami memorial silenceHe also told the relatives attending the memorial that this was a way for the territory to give their support and share their heavy hearts.

He thanked the Rotary Club and Hawaiian Air for their commitment to honoring the lives lost in the tragedy.tsunami memorial child

Rev. Iasepi Ulu of the Fagatogo CCCAS church  repeated a testimonial by one of the Gold Star Mothers of the territory Mrs. Mary Time, whose daughter Tina was the first local casualty of the Iraqi war, in his final words at the service.

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