A Patriotic Territory
On April 17, 1900, American Samoa became a U.S. Territory. Part of an archipelago over 2,000 miles from Hawaii, these small islands have a big presence in the U.S. Army. This U.S. Territory has the highest military enlistment rate of any U.S. State or territory.
Explore American Samoa:
The Complete Guide to
Tutuila, Aunu’u, and Manu’a Islands
Paperback – March 24, 2021
by Melinda Clayville (Author)
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Far away from the madness of bright lights and crowds is an island where time slows down and Mother Nature reigns. American Samoa can be found in the warm, tropical waters of the South Pacific, rich with a living culture, wild landscapes, and world-class snorkeling. Explore American Samoa is your own personal tour guide, pointing out everything from the best hiking trails and snorkeling spots to the most breathtaking views and sun-soaked beaches. This guidebook also includes common Samoan words and phrases, hotel contact information, and instructions for obtaining SIM cards and medical care, so you’re ready to hit the ground running the moment you land. You won’t find any chain resorts and tiki bars in American Samoa, just an island paradise, focused on authenticity and ecotourism to preserve their natural beauty and traditional way of life.
American Samoa consists of five main islands and two coral atolls. The largest and most populous island is Tutuila, with the Manuʻa Islands, Rose Atoll and Swains Island also included in the territory. All islands except for Swains Island are part of the Samoan Islands, west of the Cook Islands, north of Tonga, and some 300 miles (500 km) south of Tokelau. To the west are the islands of the Wallis and Futuna groups. As of 2021, the population of American Samoa is approximately 46,366 people.[8][10] Most American Samoans are bilingual and can speak English and Samoan fluently
A Tribute by the Army
Pershing’s Own – The United States Army Band celebrates American Samoa with a performance of “Lo Ta Nu’u,” featuring Staff Sgt. Erik Tue, who enlisted in the Army in 2010. Raised in American Samoa, SSG Tue was inspired by the service of his Auntie, combat veteran Col. (Ret.) Leafaina Yahn, a West Point graduate now serving as Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Aumua Amata; his Uncle, First Sgt. (Ret.) Tipo To’omalatai, who served as a Green Beret with 312th Infantry of Baumholder, Germany; and his cousin, Sgt. First Class (Ret.) Pio Pa’au, Jr.
“Lo Ta Nu’u” is an unofficial anthem of American Samoa. Sung in Samoan, a Polynesian language, the song depicts the pride Samoans have for their culture and people. As Tauaipolu Kelly Tue, SSG Tue’s mother said, “No matter where in the world a Samoan may be, the love they have for their tiny little island is felt way beyond its shores.”