The 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Liberty, North Carolina confirmed the death of one of its paratroopers in an announcement Thursday.
Spc. Faamavaega Tanielu, who was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division Artillery Brigade, died as a result of an early morning incident on base Thursday, division spokesman Lt. Col. Cesar Santiago said.
Faamavaega was the eldest of three children of Faamavaega and Aiesi Tanielu of Mesepa.
The parents were informed of his death, Wednesday evening. Mrs. Tanielu said she spoke with her son around 4pm Wednesday local time, and at least three times in the conversation he told her, “I love you Mom. ”
“I miss him terribly. His calls always cheer me up, now he’s gone.”
Faamavaega was 24. He attended Tafuna High School and joined the Army in October 2022.
He leaves behind his wife, Sauvinemoni, and three young children.
Mrs. Tanielu said from what she has learned from her daughter in law, Faamavaega died on base.
The army said the soldier’s death is under investigation.
Col. Michael Garry, commander of the 82nd Airborne Division Artillery Brigade, said, “Spc. Tanielu was an exceptional Paratrooper, a great teammate, and an outstanding young man. He made us all better. We extend our most sincere condolences to his family, friends, and those with whom he served.”
KHJ News extends condolences to the wife, parents, and family of Spc. Tanielu.
