October 14, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H11313 Our community and the entire nation are The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Nauru, Australia, Cambodia, Vietnam, proud of these brave men and women, and tion. Japan, Pacific Islands Forum members, and we are glad to see them home safely. Soldier- The text of the resolution is as fol- the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) citizens who voluntarily make such a tremen- lows: sent messages of support and offers of aid to the people of American Samoa; H. RES. 816 dous sacrifice are what have kept our nation Whereas organizations including the Li Ka safe, free and strong for over 200 years. The Whereas, on September 29, 2009, at 1748 Shing Foundation, the Hanwha Group, Save work performed in support of Operation Iraqi UTC, a powerful earthquake struck below the Children, the American Red Cross, Habi- Freedom is important—requiring personal the ocean about 140 miles southwest of Pago tat for Humanity, Latter-day Saint Char- commitment and sacrifice. Your service to our Pago, American Samoa, and 125 miles south ities, Catholic Charities, the American Jew- country will not be forgotten. of Samoa, centered only 11 miles below the ish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), Na- seabed; tional Voluntary Organizations Active in Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. Mr. Speaker, Whereas the earthquake registered 8.3 on I rise today to recognize the return home of Disaster, StarKist, Bumble Bee, the National the Richter scale and is recognized as the Football League (NFL), and many others are the 81st Brigade. world’s largest earthquake of 2009; In August 2008, it was a cloudy day in East- providing assistance; Whereas a second earthquake with a mag- Whereas the Samoan community in areas ern Washington when our community said nitude of 5.6 occurred at 1808 UTC in the vi- such as California, Utah, Washington, and goodbye to the men and women serving in the cinity of the first one; Hawaii have been instrumental in helping 81st Brigade. These citizen soldiers volun- Whereas the first undersea earthquake cre- their ‘‘aiga’’ abroad; teered to serve a year in Iraq. The day they ated a massive tsunami that crashed into Whereas President Barack H. Obama tele- American Samoa, Samoa, and neighboring departed, we all had tears in our eyes. How- phoned the Governor of American Samoa and Tonga, sweeping cars and people out to sea American Samoa’s Delegate to the United ever, I also saw in every mother, father, wife, as survivors fled to high ground; States House of Representatives to person- husband, and friend how proud they were of Whereas the tsunami, with towering waves ally extend his and the First Lady’s condo- their soldier. I am grateful for the uncommon that reached up to 20 feet in height and pene- lences to the families and loved ones of those commitment as a ‘‘citizen soldier’’ leaving not trated one mile inland, caused death and de- who lost their lives in the earthquake and struction on a nearly unprecedented scale; only family and friends, but putting your job tsunami in American Samoa and the region, Whereas the death toll, as of October 7, and perhaps educational goals on hold. and to assure the Governor and the Delegate 2009, is estimated at 32 in American Samoa I also want to applaud the families of the that he would speed the deployment of re- and 135 in the Independent State of Samoa; 81st Brigade. More often than not, as soon as sources and provide the tools necessary for a a servicemember deploys, the spouse is faced Whereas many individuals and families af- fected in this region are now lacking basic full, swift, and aggressive response; with an unforeseen obstacle like their brand survival necessities and there remains the Whereas Secretary of State Hillary new car needing to go back to the shop or the risk of numerous additional deaths due to Rodham Clinton also telephoned American refrigerator deciding not to work. The families shortages of clean water, adequate shelter, Samoa’s Delegate in his capacity as Chair- of the 81st Brigade have much catching up to food, sanitation, and basic healthcare; man of the House Foreign Affairs’ Sub- do. They will have a Thanksgiving to cele- Whereas the human cost of this disaster committee on Asia, the Pacific and the Glob- al Environment to convey her sympathy and brate, Christmas presents to open, birthday transcends mere statistics and has resulted in deeply personal tragedies for numerous offer her full support which subsequently in- candles to blow out, Easter eggs to hunt and cluded the authorization to airlift emer- many, many kisses and hugs to share. families and communities in the region and throughout the world; gency supplies to Samoa; The operations we face in Iraq and Afghani- Whereas children in the United States Ter- Whereas Speaker of the House Nancy stan have now lasted longer than World War ritory of American Samoa running for home Pelosi issued a press statement on behalf of II. In the last five years our nation has tasked unknowingly ran in the direction of the tsu- the entire Congress promising to quickly ad- every branch of the military and every compo- nami; dress the needs of American Samoa and the nent; active duty, National Guard and Re- Whereas the villages of Fagamalo, Poloa, Americans who live there; and serve. Each has responded admirably and Amanave, Fai’lolo, Nua, Se’etaga, Afao, Whereas Senate Majority Leader Harry Asili, Amaluia, Leone, Fagasa, Fagatogo, Reid, House Majority Leader Steny H. consistently. Our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Hoyer, Chairman John F. Kerry of the Sen- and Marines are a vital part of that critical re- Pago Pago, Aua, Afono, Vatia, Masefau, Faga’itua, Pagai, Utusia, Alofau, Auto, Alao, ate Committee on Foreign Relations, Chair- sponse in keeping America safe. We could not and Tula in American Samoa were dev- man Howard L. Berman of the House Com- protect our nation if it were not for what each astated by the disaster; mittee on Foreign Affairs, Chairman Nick J. of them bring to the fight. Whereas in response to this disaster and Rahall, II, of the House Committee on Nat- Mr. Speaker, the 81st Brigade recently re- call for assistance, the people of the United ural Resources, as well as many other Mem- turned on a sunny day back to Washington States have responded with a generous and bers of Congress also offered expressions of State. I am proud to welcome them home and heartfelt outpouring of aid; support in the aftermath of the devastating congratulate them on a job well done. Whereas a team of more than 300 respond- tsunami: Now, therefore, be it Mr. SMITH of Washington. I yield ers from the Federal Emergency Manage- Resolved, That the House of Representa- back the balance of my time. ment Agency (FEMA), the American Red tives— The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Cross, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the (1) mourns the loss of life caused by the question is on the motion offered by Department of Health and Human Services earthquakes and tsunamis that occurred on (HHS) and other Federal agencies is on the September 29, 2009, in American Samoa, the gentleman from Washington (Mr. ground in American Samoa coordinating re- Samoa, and Tonga; SMITH) that the House suspend the lief and recovery operations; (2) offers its deepest sympathy and condo- rules and agree to the resolution, H. Whereas the United States Navy (USN), lences to the families of the many earth- Res. 627, as amended. the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the quake and tsunami victims, and to Head of The question was taken; and (two- Hawaii Air National Guard, and the U.S. State His Highness Tui Atua Tupua thirds being in the affirmative) the Army Reserve American Samoa, under the Tamasese and Prime Minister Tuilaepa rules were suspended and the resolu- leadership of Admiral Timothy J. Keating, Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi of Samoa, as tion, as amended, was agreed to. Commander, U.S. Pacific Command well as to His Majesty King George Tupou V A motion to reconsider was laid on (PACOM), and Command Sergeant Major and Prime Minister Feleti Vaka’uta Sevele the table. (CSM) Iuniasolua T. Savusa, Senior Enlisted of Tonga; Leader, PACOM, with the support of Major (3) pledges its full support to the people of f General Robert G.F. Lee, the Adjutant Gen- American Samoa and the villages of MOURNING THE LOSS OF LIFE ON eral, State of Hawaii, provided critical trans- Fagamalo, Poloa, Amanave, Fai’lolo, Nua, AMERICAN SAMOA AND SAMOA port of the life-saving and life-sustaining Se’etaga, Afao, Asili, Amaluia, Leone, supplies and equipment to meet the imme- Fagasa, Fagatogo, Pago Pago, Aua, Afono, AFTER THE EARTHQUAKES AND diate needs of the survivors, including more Vatia, Masefau, Faga’itua, Pagai, Utusia, TSUNAMIS ON SEPTEMBER 29, than 26,000 meals, 14,000 liters of water, 1,800 Alofau, Auto, Alao, and Tula as they begin 2009 blankets, 800 tents, more than 800 cots, and 9 the long and difficult process of rebuilding Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, pallets of medical supplies and medical their homes and lives; I move to suspend the rules and agree equipment in support of American Samoa’s (4) recognizes the humanitarian response to the resolution (H. Res. 816) mourn- mass care operations; that is currently underway and commends Whereas foreign governments, including the efforts of all persons and relief organiza- ing the loss of life caused by the earth- Kazakhstan, the People’s Republic of China, tions who continue to alleviate the suffering quakes and tsunamis that occurred on the Republic of Korea, Palau, Thailand, by providing financial and material support; September 29, 2009, in American Samoa Samoa, Fiji, Grenada, Hungary, Uzbekistan, (5) urges continued attention by donors and Samoa, as amended. Republic of China (Taiwan), Indonesia, and relief agencies to the needs of vulnerable

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(6) expresses gratitude and appreciation to also offered her full support and au- The United States Navy, the Coast the foreign governments from around the world that are lending their support to the thorized the airlift of emergency sup- Guard, the Hawaii International Guard United States Territory of American Samoa; plies to the independent state of and the U.S. Army Reserves in Amer- (7) commends the over 100,000 Samoans re- Samoa. ican Samoa provided critical transport siding in the United States from American Speaker of the House NANCY PELOSI of the life-saving and life-sustaining Samoa and Samoa for coming to the aid of issued a special statement on behalf of supplies and equipment to meet the their ‘‘aiga’’ in the affected islands; and the entire Congress, promising to immediate needs of the survivors. (8) pays tribute to the people of American quickly address the needs of American On behalf of the people of America Samoa and Samoa for their strength of spirit Samoa and the Americans who live Samoa, I express my gratitude for all and their deep and abiding faith in God of those who have stood by us when we which brings hope to all of us. there. Senate Majority Leader HARRY REID, have needed you most. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- House Majority Leader STENY HOYER, I also join with Governor Togiola ant to the rule, the gentleman from Chairman JOHN F. KERRY of the Senate Tulafono and First Lady Maryanne American Samoa (Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA) Committee on Foreign Relations, Togiola Tulafono of American Samoa and the gentleman from Washington Chairman HOWARD L. BERMAN of the conveying my deepest condolences to (Mr. HASTINGS) each will control 20 House Committee on Foreign Affairs, the families of the many earthquake minutes. and tsunami victims, and to the Head The Chair recognizes the gentleman Chairman NICK RAHALL of the House from American Samoa. Committee on Natural Resources, as of State, his Highness Tui Atua Tupua well as many other Members of Con- Tamasese and Prime Minister Tuilaepa GENERAL LEAVE Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi of Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, gress also offered expressions of sup- Samoa, as well as to His Majesty King I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- port in these trying times. George Tupou V and Prime Minister bers may have 5 legislative days to re- I especially want to thank my col- Feleti Vaka’uta Sevele of Tonga. vise and extend their remarks and to league and dear friend, Congresswoman As we begin the long and difficult include extraneous material on the res- LAURA RICHARDSON, for her working process of rebuilding, we thank God for olution under consideration. side by side with my office in support The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there of our Samoan communities living in the prayers you have offered on our be- objection to the request of the gen- her district and in Samoa, as well as in half and express appreciation to all tleman from American Samoa? American Samoa. Congresswoman persons and relief organizations who There was no objection. RICHARDSON has stood by us every step continue to alleviate our suffering. Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield my- of the way and has earned her rightful In memory of those who are no self such time as I may consume. place in our hearts for leaving no stone longer with us, I urge my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support unturned in relief efforts. support passage of House Resolution of this resolution mourning the loss of I also want to thank our Samoan 816, mourning the loss of life caused by life caused by the earthquakes and communities and congregations— the earthquakes and tsunamis that oc- tsunamis that occurred on September churches from Hawaii, Washington, curred on September 29, 2009, in Amer- 29, 2009, in American Samoa, in the Utah, and California—which collected ican Samoa, Independent State of independent state of Samoa and in critical supplies that will now be air- Samoa and the Kingdom of Tonga. Tonga. lifted or transported by surface trans- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of On September 29, 2009, a powerful portation to Samoa and, hopefully, my time. earthquake, which registered 8.3 on the also to American Samoa. Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. Richter scale and is recognized as the I want to also thank the Reverend Speaker, I yield myself such time as I world’s largest earthquake of 2009, Liki Tiatia, the Reverend John Mailo, may consume. struck below the ocean about 140 miles the Reverend Misipauena Tagaloa, and Mr. Speaker, as my friend from southwest of Pago Pago and 125 miles High Chief Loa Pele Faletogo, who American Samoa said, a terrible trag- south of Apia, in the state of Samoa, have been instrumental in gathering edy occurred on September 29, 2009, in creating a massive tsunami, or tidal emergency supplies for our families the South Pacific. American Samoa wave, that crashed into American abroad. and Samoa were struck by separate Samoa, the Independent State of With so many people in need of basic tsunami waves which devastated nu- Samoa, and the Kingdom of Tonga, supplies, words cannot express how merous communities on each of the is- sweeping cars and people out to sea as grateful I am to all of my fellow Amer- lands. We offer our deepest sympathies survivors fled to high ground. The tsu- icans and to our friends from around and condolences to the many victims nami, or tidal wave, with towering the world who have responded to this in the region. waves that reached up to 20 feet in disaster and to our call for assistance The outreach of support and humani- height and penetrated 1 mile inland, with a generous and heartfelt out- tarian efforts to assist each of the is- caused death and destruction on a pouring of aid. More than 300 respond- lands in their recovery efforts has to be nearly unprecedented scale. ers from the Federal Emergency Man- commended. Federal agencies, military The human cost of this disaster tran- agement Agency, the American Red services, foreign governments, relief scends mere statistics and has resulted Cross, the U.S. Corps of Engineers, the organizations, and private citizens in deeply personal tragedies for numer- Department of Health and Human have all reached out to assist these is- ous families and communities in the Services, and other Federal agencies land nations. region and throughout the world. are on the ground in American Samoa, These islands face months, if not In the U.S. territory of American coordinating relief and recovery oper- years, of recovery actions. They will Samoa, children running for home un- ations. depend on Congress and the continued knowingly ran in the direction of the efforts of the Federal Government, re- tsunami. The villages of Fagamalo, b 1130 lief organizations, and private citizens Poloa, Amanave, Failolo, Afao, Asili, Organizations including the Li Ka to recover. Amaluia, Leone, Fagasa, Fagatogo, Shing Foundation, the Hanwha Group, I urge all of us to be steadfast in our Pago Pago, Aua, Afono, Vatia, Lauli’i, Save the Children, Habitat for Human- support for the communities on Amer- Faga’itua, Masefau, Alao, Tula, and ity, Latter-Day Saint charities, Catho- ican Samoa and Samoa and assist them Aoa in American Samoa were dev- lic Charities, the American Jewish to recover from this terrible event. astated by the disaster. Villages were Joint Distribution Committee, tuna Finally, I would like to commend and also wiped out in the independent state canneries like StarKist, Bumble Bee, extend my best wishes to our friend of Samoa. even the Polynesian professional foot- and colleague, Eni Faleomavaega, who In response to this tragedy, President ball players with the National Football has worked tirelessly on behalf of his Barack Obama speedily deployed the League and the coalition of various Sa- constituents to meet the needs of his

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:31 Oct 15, 2009 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A14OC7.005 H14OCPT1 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with HOUSE October 14, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H11315 constituents who have suffered much FALEOMAVAEGA from American Samoa. press my sincere appreciation to the during this very, very difficult period. There is no tougher time as a Member comments by my dear friend and col- With that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the that we have when a disaster hits our league, Congresswoman LAURA RICH- balance of my time. community to respond where he has ARDSON. Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, been working over the last week vis- Just to give my colleagues a sense of I thank my good friend and gentleman iting all of the territories, all of the what took place, as I said earlier in my from Washington for his support and areas to assess and to understand how remarks, it was an earthquake right on endorsement as well as the chairman of we can help best. the fringe of the Tonga Trench. The our Committee on Natural Resources, You might ask how I got involved. Tonga Trench is one of the two deepest NICK RAHALL, for his support. Why would an 8.3 magnitude earth- trenches in the world, second only to At this time I would like to yield 2 quake 120 miles away, that caused a the Marianas Trench. And when the minutes to my distinguished friend and tsunami, that caused death throughout earthquake struck at almost 7 in the colleague, the gentlelady from the many of our communities, why would I morning, it caused tremors in the Sa- State of Hawaii (Ms. HIRONO). be engaged? Well, in the United States moan Islands for about 3 minutes, but Ms. HIRONO. Mr. Speaker, I rise we have over 80,000 Samoans who live the shock wave was traveling at about today in support of H. Res. 816 which here, over 52,000 who live in California, 500 miles an hour. So there was no way expresses the condolences of the Con- and almost 30,000 of those actually live that anybody could possibly prepare gress to the Samoans following the in my district. So this is beyond an for this disaster to occur because in a natural disasters in the South Pacific. issue of just a concern of a community manner of minutes—I’ve seen tidal I cannot stress how much these terri- that had a disaster. It’s actually family waves before, and what happens is that fying events were so deeply felt and friends and people that I’ve worked the water is totally sucked out from throughout the State of Hawaii be- with for a long time who are looking the shoreline from the reefs so pretty cause of our close familial, historical, for help and assistance. much you can prepare yourself to an- cultural, and geographical ties to these So when we stand today, I want to ticipate the coming of the tidal wave. islands. stand in full support with Congressman What made this disaster so different I would like to extend a heartfelt ENI FALEOMAVAEGA to really look at is the fact that the tremors occurred ‘‘mahalo’’—my thanks—to Hawaii’s the tragedy that has happened but also for about 3 or 5 minutes, then 5 min- Army Air and Army Guard Medical how we can move forward. The Con- utes later, the tidal wave was up there Communication and search and rescue gressman has been successful in work- 20 feet in height coming to the many specialists who assisted in the recovery ing with the Secretary to be able to people who were so surprised and efforts. It is worth noting that this was send aid this very week that’s going to shocked that early morning at 7 the first time the Hawaii National go to western Samoa which the chair- o’clock when the tidal wave came in. Guard had deployed such a sizable tax man has been a chairman over for So we’re looking at two disasters: an force outside our State in support of a many years on the committee. But we earthquake that caused a lot of prob- Pacific partner. I would also like to thank the 15 Red need to continue to work so when dis- lems and then the tsunami. So the two Cross volunteers from Hawaii who fo- asters like this occur, we can get help disasters occurred at the same time. I wanted to share that with my col- cused on outreaching to the families and assistance quickly, and time league that this is what made a very who lost loved ones in the disasters and should not be with delay I also want to thank Secretary Clin- unusual disaster was because there was served meals that included local favor- ton publicly for her assistance. We ap- no way that anybody could properly ites like spam and saimin. I would also preciate the initial efforts that had prepare for what was coming when this like to thank the many Hawaii busi- been done in American Samoa, but earthquake occurred. nesses who made monetary or in-kind much more needs to be done, and we At this time, Mr. Speaker, I would donations. like to yield 2 minutes to my colleague The outpouring of support for relief will work in concert to ensure that from the Virgin Islands, DONNA efforts from Hawaii’s Samoan commu- that continual work supplies things CHRISTENSEN. nity has been tremendous. I know that that many people care desperately for Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. I thank you for much of their strength in the wake of actually get to the people. yielding, and I want to rise also in these disasters is derived from their As I conclude my comments, I want strong support of H.R. 816, mourning personal faith for which I have long to say that as Members, as we stand to- the loss of life caused by the earth- had great admiration. gether to deal with this tragedy, people I want to close by letting my dear should know that there are over 60 or- quake and tsunami that occurred on September 29, 2009, in American Samoa friend and colleague, Congressman ENI ganizations in my district who have and Samoa, and to extend my thoughts FALEOMAVAEGA, know that I stand now donated over 200,000 pounds of var- ready along with other Members of ious supplies: water, food, clothing, and prayers and that of the people of Congress to continue to support his ef- things that people desperately need. the Virgin Islands to the victims of forts to help the people of American But what they really need is they need that 8.0 magnitude earthquake and tsu- Samoa and Samoa in any way that we to also know from us as leaders that nami that devastated our brothers and can. they’re not there alone, that we are sisters in the U.S. territory of Amer- Mahalo. watching what’s happening, we are ican Samoa and the Nation of Western Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. I re- watching the response of FEMA and Samoa and to offer our condolences to serve the balance of my time. the other aspects of our government, those that lost loved ones as a result of Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank the and we are committed to them not that tragedy. gentlelady for her kind remarks from only today but we’re committed as Like my colleague from California, the State of Hawaii. they’re going to have to rebuild which I’ve been to American Samoa several At this time, I would like to yield 4 will take for many months to come. times with the Congressman. We were minutes to my good friend from Cali- I commend you, Congressman, for all there in early August and visited his fornia, Congresswoman LAURA RICH- your efforts. You passionately lead the own village of Leone—which we heard ARDSON. people in your community. We’re fortu- so much about in the wake of the Ms. RICHARDSON. Mr. Speaker, I nate to have you here. And I will work earthquake and the tsunami because thank the gentleman for yielding, and with you and other members of our they were so hard hit—and I remember I rise in strong support of H.R. 816, to caucus to ensure not only this support, how the people came out and welcomed mourn the loss of the lives and all of but all of the support that you need us. They fed us. We had a joyous time the tragedy that we had with the that you have us right there standing with them. That evening they earthquake and the subsequent tsu- side by side. showered us with so many gifts, and we nami that devastated American Samoa Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. I re- just hope that we can return those gifts and the independent State of Samoa. serve the balance of my time. to them in their time of greatest need. May I first of all take a moment to Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, As I speak to you, there is a young really commend Congressman ENI I yield myself 1 minute to again ex- girl—and I wish I had her name with

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Three hundred live in my area of Los Angeles County. U.S. Virgin Island, a community of is- emergency responders have reportedly Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. lands that is also vulnerable to tropical been dispatched by FEMA. The Red Speaker, I am very pleased to yield 1 disasters, I am very aware of the toll it Cross, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, minute to my namesake and friend can take on the people, infrastructure, and the Department of Health and from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS). and our time and resources. I know Human Services are coordinating relief Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. I thank how hard it has been on our colleague, and recovery operations. my colleague for yielding. I did not ask Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA to be home. I called The U.S. military, under the direc- my distinguished good friend, because I him one morning, forgetting that it tion of the U.S. Pacific Command in didn’t know how many speakers he was 5 o’clock in the morning in Amer- Hawaii, is providing emergency assist- had, and I didn’t want to interdict the ican Samoa, but he was already up and ance, including food, water, tents, program as it is set forth. Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong preparing to go and visit just another blankets, and medical supplies. In this support of the resolution offered in a area that had been devastated. regard, military personnel are helping bipartisan fashion and demonstrating The people of my district, the U.S. their friends and colleagues, as the very strongly how we do respond to Virgin Islands, have asked me to ex- young people of American Samoa are those who are in need. press their solidarity with the people of well known for their patriotic spirit of In the case of ENI FALEOMAVAEGA, American Samoa at this time of their service in the United States military, American Samoa has had for a consid- distress, and to extend our support to including in both Iraq and Afghanistan. erable period of time a distinguished our colleague, Congressman ENI We appreciate and honor that service. Member of this body who has helped so FALEOMAVAEGA, as they make and we I urge my colleagues to give their many of us when we have had difficul- make with them the necessary ar- strong support to this resolution. ties such as in Hurricane Andrew. rangements to mobilize and deploy ur- Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, Those that live in these areas, or my gently needed emergency assistance again, I thank my good friend, the sen- friend that just spoke from Hawaii, all and to assure them that all of the ior ranking member of our House For- of us understand these dynamics. American people, but especially those eign Affairs Committee, for her kind ENI, our heart goes out to you. As on the other off-shore territories, are comments, mentioning also about the one who has visited American Samoa ready to assist them. military participation of the sons and with you on three different occasions In visiting American Samoa you can- daughters of American Samoa. and had the good fortune of bringing not help but be struck by the strong According to the recent reports of my son there, I just want you to know community spirit that exists there and USA Today newspaper, American how heavy my heart was when I saw the strong faith, and I know that will Samoans have the highest percentage those places, and my heart goes out to bear them up through this difficult per annum in the whole United States you and all. time, but they still need our support, in terms of those who sacrificed their Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, and we’re here for them. lives in the war in Iraq and Afghani- I yield 1 minute to my good friend from Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. stan, with about 136 percent above all the Northern Mariana Islands, Con- Speaker, I am pleased to yield 4 min- States and territories. I do want to gressman SABLAN. utes to the gentlelady from Florida, thank the gentlelady for reminding us Mr. SABLAN. Mr. Speaker, 2 weeks the ranking member of the Foreign Re- of that. ago I came to the floor to offer my con- lations Committee, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, if I could ask how much dolences to the people of American Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. I thank the more time do we have? Samoa and to their far-flung families gentleman for the time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- who were still reeling from the initial Mr. Speaker, I was honored to join tleman from American Samoa has 5 shock from the tsunami and from the my good friend, Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA, in minutes remaining, and the gentleman many losses suffered. Today, we meet serving as an original cosponsor of this from Washington has 16 minutes re- in a more formal manner to broaden critical resolution. This resolution of- maining. the expression of these condolences to fers the condolences in a heartfelt way Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield 1 include this House and all the people of the Congress to those who endured minute to the gentlelady from Cali- we represent from across our Nation. suffering and loss in American Samoa fornia, my dear friend, Ms. CHU. I said before that the people of the and Samoa and neighboring Tonga dur- Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Pacific, though separated by thousands ing the tragic events of September 29 support of House Resolution 816. Last of miles, feel that we are part of one and the aftermath. We join with the month’s magnitude 8.0 earthquake in family. We understand the vulnerabil- people of American Samoa, Samoa and Samoa, Tonga, and American Samoa ity and isolation of life on an island in the entire Samoan community here in was devastating, setting off tsunamis the midst of a sea, a vast sea. That the United States in mourning those that washed over islands killing 168 shared understanding makes us one. who have died in this terrible disaster. people. Today, I rise that all Americans, The quake generated three separate though separated by experience and b 1145 tsunami waves, the largest measuring culture, by language and distance, are The previous tragic events of 2004 5.1 feet, completely destroying villages, part of one family. It is inexplicable made us all keenly aware of the devas- leaving families whose entire lives had how this may be so, but this evidence tation which can be wrought by a tsu- washed away with nothing. On the makes clear that it is so. When many nami after an earthquake takes place small islands, ocean waters washed of us are in need, as American Samoa in ocean waters. away houses, cars, and main access is and will continue to be, then we find Waves from this tsunami in Amer- roads, making it all the more difficult we are not alone. Then we remember ican Samoa were reportedly 20 feet for rescue parties and aid to reach we are all Americans. high and rushed 1 mile inland, causing hard-hit areas. Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, unprecedented death and destruction. In the aftermath of the disaster, how much time do I have remaining? The latest death toll reported is 32 local aid agencies, foreign nations, the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- dead in American Samoa and 135 dead U.S. Coast Guard, and FEMA instituted tleman from American Samoa has 3 in Samoa. Children mistakenly run- a quick and much-needed response. minutes remaining. ning in the direction of the tsunami With the lack of proper sanitation, Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, were among the victims. water and shelter continuing to be a at this time I yield 11⁄2 minutes to my

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:31 Oct 15, 2009 Jkt 089060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K14OC7.027 H14OCPT1 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with HOUSE October 14, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H11317 good friend from Texas (Mr. AL lences and deepest sympathies to the people tional Guard, which is a testament to their GREEN). of American Samoa and Independent Samoa training and professionalism. I know FEMA, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- for the loss of life that was caused by the the Hawaii Red Cross and other relief organi- er, I believe that there is but one race, earthquakes and tsunamis that hit these is- zations are on the ground, as well, aiding and that is the human race. I believe lands on September 29, 2009. communities to cope with the devastation. that one God created all humanity to Struck by towering waves that reached up There are many people in Hawaii with live in harmony. I am honored to be to 20 feet in height, the people of American friends or family back in American Samoa and here today to express my sympathies Samoa, Independent Samoa and Tonga are Samoa. They are our brothers and sisters of and my oneness with the people of today confronting staggering losses of life and the Pacific and we will do all we can to help American Samoa, Indonesia, as well as property as they watched helplessly as the in- and support them. the Philippines. rushing sea swallowed up coastal towns and I urge my colleagues to support this resolu- I also want to make it very clear villages. tion and the people of American Samoa and that my district is a polyglot melting As of last week it is estimated that 32 Amer- Samoa. pot. It is, in fact, a culture of cultures. ican Samoans and 135 residents of Inde- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Because it is such, I have a special kin- pendent Samoa lost their lives. And today, to offer my support and sympathy to the peo- ship and relationship with the persons many families in the affected areas still lack ple of the U.S. Territory of American Samoa who have been devastated by these nat- basic necessities resulting in the risk of addi- and Western Samoa in the aftermath of the ural disasters. tional deaths because of scarce clean water, devastating tsunami that hit the region last I believe that we cannot do enough to shelter, food and basic health care. week. The wave claimed over 200 lives and help them recover. But I also under- I was pleased to have had the opportunity left thousands more homeless. I ask that this stand in my heart that when you can- to visit American Samoa earlier this year with body support our colleague, Congressman not do enough, you have a duty to do my good friend and colleague, Congressman Faleomavaega and his community as they re- all that you can. I want us to do more ENI FALEOMAVAEGA, the author of the resolu- cover from this disaster. All necessary aid to because these are our fellow human tion we are debating today. Among the places this region in the South Pacific should be beings. They are part of the one race, we visited while we were there was the Village brought to bear for our fellow Americans. the human race. of Leone; one of the areas on American We on Guam have experienced our share Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. Mr. Samoa that was severely impacted. I want to of disasters. I recognize the efforts of my con- Speaker, I have no more requests for express my profound condolences to the peo- stituents, many of whom have banded to- time, and I yield back the balance of ple of Leone for their suffering as well as to gether to raise money and donate clothes, my time. thank them once again for the warm welcome blankets, and food to the relief effort for Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, and hospitality they offered us. Samoa. The people of American Samoa and I again want to thank my good friend I want to also commend Congressman Western Samoa have shown great courage in from Washington for his assistance and FALEOMAVAEGA for his efforts in marshalling the face of this tragedy. Following the disaster partnering with me in putting this res- the response of the federal government in re- they have pulled together and expressed their olution before our colleagues. sponding to the disaster in his home island. determination to recover what was lost. They I also have a proverbial expression, ENI and his staff labored around the clock to deserve our backing and support in their time going along with what my good friend coordinate the efforts of FEMA, the Red of need. My thoughts and prayers will remain from Texas has said, that, yes, there Cross, Army Corps and the other federal with the families and those impacted by this truly is only one race, and that’s the agencies tasked by President Obama to disaster. Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I yield back human race. That’s what makes this speedily deploy all the resources and tools the balance of my time. country so great. necessary for a full, swift and aggressive re- I also believe that this country is but The SPEAKER pro tempore. The sponse. question is on the motion offered by a microcosm of the whole world in Mr. Speaker, American Samoans in the Pa- the gentleman from American Samoa itself, and the fact that it seeks no race cific and in the mainland United States are an or creed or boundaries to the extent (Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA) that the House integral part of our country’s history and of our suspend the rules and agree to the reso- that we are all fellow human beings, American social fabric. They are our brothers and whenever there is a need, it’s our lution, H. Res. 816, as amended. who fight valiantly in our wars and contribute The question was taken. moral responsibility to do all that we immensely to the prosperity of our country. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the can to give assistance. Today, I send my thoughts and prayers to the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being There is also a saying among the Chi- victims and their family members in this mo- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. nese people that says there are many ment of grief and tragic loss. We stand in soli- Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, acquaintances but very view friends. darity with our brothers and pray for their on that I demand the yeas and nays. I will say, Mr. Speaker, to express speedy recovery. The yeas and nays were ordered. my deepest appreciation and gratitude Mr. ABERCROMBIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- to my colleagues who truly are my today to support H. Res. 816 in mourning the ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the friends, when I am in need, just from loss of life caused by the earthquakes and Chair’s prior announcement, further the fact that many of our colleagues tsunamis that occurred on September 29, proceedings on this motion will be have had occasions of having to appear 2009, in American Samoa and Samoa. postponed. before the floor and expressing and I want to express my sincere condolences f asking for assistance when disasters to those that have lost family, friends and occur in their States and their terri- other important people in their lives. Despite EXPRESSING CONDOLENCES AND tories, this is what the Congress is all this loss, the people of American Samoa and SUPPORT TO INDONESIA IN THE about. This is what democracy is all Samoa remain strong and resilient. They are AFTERMATH OF THE EARTH- about in this great country. continuing on, picking up the pieces of what QUAKE THAT STRUCK SUMATRA Again, Mr. Speaker, I cannot say can be salvaged, cleaning their homes and cit- Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, enough words to express my deepest ies and helping each other through the strug- I move to suspend the rules and agree appreciation and gratitude for the of- gles of trying to regain the life they once had. to the resolution (H. Res. 810) express- fered help from the administration, As thousands of people continue to struggle ing condolences to the citizens of Indo- from our colleagues on the other side with this tragedy, I join my colleagues in our nesia and support for the Government of the aisle, from everybody in the Con- commitment to the relief efforts and offer sup- of Indonesia in the aftermath of the gress, knowing of the difficulties that port for the families of the many victims. devastating earthquake that struck we are going through. I am going to I would like to commend Representative ENI the island of Sumatra. say, our people are in good spirits. The FALEOMAVAEGA for his tireless efforts to help The Clerk read the title of the resolu- prayer services, all that has been of- relive the suffering and devastation in Amer- tion. fered has been tremendous. I just want ican Samoa. I will do everything I can to assist The text of the resolution is as fol- to say again, thank you to my col- my friend and colleague in speeding any addi- lows: leagues. tional federal assistance needed to the area. H. RES. 810 Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support I am also proud of the rapid response by Whereas, on September 30, 2009, a 7.6 mag- of H. Res. 816 and to express my condo- Major General Bob Lee and the Hawaii Na- nitude earthquake originated northwest of

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