Pacific / American Samoa

American Samoa marks becoming U.S. territory

08:26 am on 18 April 2015

American Samoa is today marking the 115th anniversary since it became a U.S. territory in 1900, with a parade, and traditional Samoan dance and songs.

American Samoa Photo: RNZI

Among the Pacific leaders attending this year's celebration at Veterans Memorial Stadium, is Samoa's Head of State, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

One of the popular activities for the annual Flag Day ceremony is the fautasi, or longboat, race which was set for yesterday, but postpone to tomorrow after two longboats encountered problems due to rough seas.

This year's ceremony is dedicated to Samoans who have retired and those still active members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The territory's governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga will deliver special remarks while the keynote address comes from Senate President Gaoteote Tofau Palaie, a military retiree.