Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is welcoming the return of Navy Lt. Ridge Alkonis, who is part Samoan, to the United States.
The US Navy officer was jailed in Japan for negligent driving that resulted in the death of two people, in May 2021.
Uifaatali said, “We have prayed for this, and advocated for it, alongside his family, and other strong voices in Congress who called for his return to the United States.
“He is Samoan, and serves our country, and I’m thankful to know that finally he is back in the U.S. where he belongs. This is an important step, so I hope his family can see him soon and his case can be reviewed. Japan is a key Pacific ally of the United States and this is another positive development in our enduring partnership with Japan.”
The Alkonis family released a statement after 507 days, expressing appreciation to the U.S. government for the diplomacy involved, and their hope for an impartial judicial review.”
Congresswoman Uifaatali, with other key Members of Congress, continually has called for his return to the U.S., restoration of Navy pay, and other factors, as he was sentenced in Japan following an accident that occurred while he was stationed there.
The Congresswoman will continue to follow his case closely, and for now, wishes Ridge and his family well upon his return to U.S. custody.
