Monday, September 29, marked 16 years since the September 29, 2009 earthquake and tsunami, which claimed the lives of 34 men, women and children in American Samoa. The bodies of two children were never found. 149 others were killed in Samoa and 9 perished in the same tsunami in Tonga.
Several of those killed in American Samoa were elderly fathers and mothers who started the morning very early going to the TAOA Center in Pago Pago and a toomaga in Leone to weave and carve. Children who were sent home from school after the first trembling of the ground around 6:45 a.m. were caught up in the deadly waves. The villages most affected were Pago Pago and Leone.
It has been said that the death toll could have been higher, but thanks to earthquake and tsunami awareness and education activities, pulenuu, and teachers, and students rang bells in some villages alerting residents to move to higher ground after they saw the sea receding.
Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula ordered that flags be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset in remembrance of those who perished in the worst tragedy to strike the territory in recent memory.
The Governor said, “As we come together on this 16th anniversary of the September 29, 2009 tragedy, we hold close the memory of how deeply it touched the lives and spirit of our people in American Samoa. This day reminds us not only of the loss we endured, but also of the unity, resilience, and extraordinary bravery shown by so many. In those moments of unimaginable hardship, the strength and courage of our community shone brightly, and this was and still is a heartfelt reminder of the bonds that make us one people.
“Let us stand in solemn tribute to their memory and enduring presence in our hearts.”
