Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga met Tuesday with several officials of the FirstNet Authority and FirstNet Build with AT&T to coincide with the 5-year mark, since the establishment of the network and the signing of the territorial plans.
Attending were FirstNet Authority Board members Alexandra Fernandez Navarro and Billy Hewes, who’s Mayor of Gulfport, Mississippi, FirstNet Build with AT&T US Territories Program Lead Michael Fox, Section Chief Response Operations Group Shannon Browning, AT&T FirstNet Technology Group Director Jeff Carl, and Client Solutions Executive, Hawaii and Pacific Territories Liz Greg.
ASG officials included Homeland Security Director Samana Veavea, and CEO of the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority Chuck Leota.
The FirstNet Progress Update (FPU), provided an opportunity to discuss the history of FirstNet in American Samoa, the current state, pending upgrades, future planning, and a review of recent experiences.
- FirstNet network in American Samoa has expanded LTE coverage across much of the territory as well as priority and preemption capabilities for first responders.
- Deployable cell sites can be used to provide temporary coverage where needed, including on Swains Island.
- Upgrades to include in-building coverage solutions and new devices/applications continue to roll out.
- Continued partnership and communication between FirstNet, AT&T, American Samoa officials, and first responders for network planning and emergency response.
“FirstNet plays a critical role in enhancing public safety and emergency response capabilities,” stated Governor Lemanu in the roundtable discussion. He continued, “FirstNet provides first responders with a dedicated and reliable communication platform tailored to their unique needs. We commend you all for your efforts to ensure the safety of the people of American Samoa.”
FirstNet Authority and FirstNet Build with AT&T team congratulated American Samoa for successfully launching the Wireless Emergency Alert System.
