samoa news - TOASAVILI SATURDAY FEATURE

* NATIVES *

 My Idol "American Samoa" Contestants

by Tauva Esera

To'asavili Correspondent

Saturday, September 4, 2004 - My Idol is here. It starts tonight. Ten weeks of musical fun and entertainment you would not want to miss. The My Idol competition is being sponsored by GHC Reid and Coca Cola at the Maliu Mai Beach Resort in Fogagogo.

Eleven local young people have been practicing their songs and are anxious to get on the stage and sing their hearts out.

Who will be the winner is hard to determine, according to Samoan international singing sensation, Lole, who is assisting the Executive Director of the program, Max Fatupaito, in coordinating the contest.

"There is a serious market here in American Samoa and it's just a matter of giving them the right technique to develop themselves to the international level," Lole said.

It's going to be a tough competition for the next ten weeks. Who is going to make it all the way?

Who will be MY IDOL?

 

Name: Paulena Afo

Age: 18

Parents: Tasiaeafe Afo

Village: Faganeanea

Student: American Samoa Community College studying Pre-Law.

Church: Congregational Christian Church in Matu'u

Paulena says music resolves problems and acknowledges the My Idol contest as a great opportunity and an open window for the young people of American Samoa to explore even further their talent in music.

"I am looking forward to this great competition, and win or lose, I'm already thankful to be chosen after auditioning and I'm thankful to Max and Lole for believing in the talent possessed by the youth of American Samoa. I had wished someone would have created this opportunity long ago. I'm very thankful." - Paulena

 

Name: Trista Clara Keil

Age: 20

Village: Mesepa

Parent: Frederick Keil and Agnes Keil

Student: Brigham Young University studying Bio Chemistry

Church: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

Musical Idols: Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston and Pacific Soul.

Trista developed her musical talent when she started to sing at the age of five and likes just about any kind of music.

She is currently on island for summer vacation and is supposed to be back for school. She would like, however, to take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime of going through the My Idol contest to discover new standards in the music world.

"Opportunity is more important than winning." - Trista

 

Name: Tapu Jr. Maiava

Age: 18

Parents: Roketi & Tapu Maiava

Village: Afono

Student: American Samoa Community College studying Liberal Arts

Musical Idols: Luther Vandross & Brian McKnight

"This has been a great experience for me, even before the contest started. I love music and I love singing and just to be selected to appear on My Idol is a victory in itself. We have all known for a long time that there is so much talent across the island at all the schools and I'm am so proud to be a part of the first My Idol contest on the rock. Good luck to all my brothers and sisters in the competition. You Gotta Believe!" - Tapu

 

Name: Savelio Pele

Age: 23

Parents: Susana Pele & late Konelio Pele

Village: Lauli'i

School: American Samoa Community College majoring in Music.

Religion: Catholic

The proud husband to Jessica Masaniai-Pele and proud father to four year old Litiana and six months Kahlini wants our leaders to know that music can be a bridge of effective communication and the best way to honestly tell others who you are.

"It's about time some people recognize and acknowledge the local talent our young people have and I'm thankful to My Idol, particularly Max and Lole, for creating the opportunity that many of us have been waiting for." - Savelio

 

Name: Terri Shauna Hunkin Sa'aga

Age: 19

Village: Tafuna, Leone & Fagatogo

Parents: Otilia E. Hunkin & Eti Sa'aga

Student: American Samoa Community College pursuing an Associate of Arts degree in Marine Biology

Church: CCCAS Fagatogo / Cornerstone Church, Malaeimi

Musical Idols: Mariah Carey, Alisha Keys, Shania Twains, late grandfather Tuiletufuga Papali'i Hunkin, a traditional song composer.

Ms. Terri started developing her musical talent at the very young age of five. Her mom and brothers were people with the talent and family band. Terri and her brother used to have a family band called "Latitude 14."

"My Idol contest is a good opportunity to showcase my talent in music and whether I win or not, I appreciate the chance I have had, because it is the experience I am really after." - Terri

 

Name: Smurf Sili

Age: 21

Parents: Sharmaine & Aniani Sili

Village: Vatia

School: American Samoa Community College majoring in Music

Church: Methodist

Musical Idols: Brian McKnight, Alisha Keys, and Rev. Orekene Taofi

Smurf expressed how overwhelmed he is with the privilege to put himself to the test to find out the quality of his talent in a serious competition.

Sili would like to acknowledge his fiancé, Ms. Saitutuila Tagaloa, who is being supportive of his quest to find positive results in the My Idol contest.

"I thank God for My Idol because I just love to sing. I feel singing is a healing medicine that removes you from feelings of loneliness, depression and sadness. Singing makes me feel happy, It's communication. It's an expression, so I hope it all comes together for me." - Smurf

 

Name: Pelivia Fagamalo Iupeli Sosoli

Age: 16

Village: Leone

Parents: Rev. Iupeli & Kuinivia Sosoli

School: Tafuna High School

Church: CCCAS Leone

Musical Idols: Everyone with voices!

The youngest contestant of the competition was born with passion in music. Singing since the age of ten, Pelivia loves just about any song, according to her mom.

"I just love singing. I love many kinds of music. I have never performed at anything close to this kind of formal contest. My public singing experience includes church events, school functions, family gatherings, and special occasions. That was my stage. You have to start somewhere, right?" - Pelivia

 

Name: Elijah Jared Tavai

Age: 17

Village: Leone

Parents: Pastor Elia Tavai & Amy Tavai

School: Senior at Leone High School

Church: Pentecostal Church, Lepuapua,Leone

Musical Idols: Destiny Child, Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin.

Elijah who is one of the male soloist for the Leone High School Taumafai Swing Choir. He started singing at the age of seven in church. He said that it feels good having the My Idol contest coming to American Samoa which is a recognition of the local talents the young people in the Territory possess.

"My Idol will take our local talent to an international level and it is a chance of a lifetime." - Elijah

 

Name: Susan Inosia Te'o

Age: 28

Village: Mapusaga Fou / Faleniu

Parents: Ma'ataua Te'o & Andrea Moana Te'o

Occupation: Day Care Operator/ Part time family business

Religion: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint

Musical Idols: Anita Baker, Mariah Carey & Whitney Houston

Susan is a proud offspring of a family with the talent in music. Parents had her sing on several occasions --church, birthday parties and weddings as well as participating in music competition-- which she said to have done pretty well in.

Music is an effective way of communication and I believe that Samoan young people are finding it appealing enough to express themselves." - Susan

 

Name: Fuafiva "Fivah" Va'a

Age: 21

Parents: Avalisa & Eneliko Feavaai

Village: Leone

Occupation: Caregiver for Grandpa

Church: Assembly of God, Leone

Fuafiva is the female soloist in the Leone High School Taumafai Swing Choir CD with the hit track "Leafaitulagi."

The 21 year old has been singing since the age of six. Through music, "Fivah" claimed she is serving the ministry of God through her talent to reach out to her fellow sisters and brothers.

"I was born with music and I give thanks and praise to our Heavenly Father for the gift He has given me. I am truly blessed and I look forward to the experience of My Idol while glorifying His name." - Fiva

 

Name: Francis Vaivao

Age: 24

Parents: Rev. Semi Vaivao & Fa'aiuga Vaivao

Village: Tafuna

Occupation: Salesman at ASCO Toyota

Church: Good Samaritan Church

Musical Idols: Anyone who can sing with a passion in music like Lole.

Francis, who just got back this week from Japan on training, was surprised when told by his boss that he was among contestants for the My Idol competition.

"Oh, the Lord works in mysterious way, indeed. What a nice feeling it is to take part in My Idol. Samoans love to sing, oh yeah, we can all sing. This contest takes it to another level and makes you get serious about it. I love this experience already and I thank you My Idol for showcasing the local talent. There is plenty on island." - Francis

Leama Vaouli finishez combat training / Petelo Duffy completes basic combat training

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - (HOMETOWN NEWS USA) - Army Pvt. Leama Vaouli has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Leama is the daughter of Vaouli Leama of American Samoa.

In 2001, she graduated from Nuuuli Poly Tech High School, and in 2003, received an associate degree from Education America, Honolulu, Hawaii.

 

Army Pfc. Petelo P. Duffy has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Knox, Ky.

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - During the nine-week training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremony, weapons, rifle marksmanship and bayonet training, chemical warfare, field training and tactical exercises, armed and unarmed combat, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, traditions, and core values.

He is the son of Tauaana Duffy, and nephew of Anita Maliselu, both of American Samoa.

Duffy is a 2003 graduate of Tafuna High School.

Melissa Fepulea'i to be promoted to senior airman

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - (HOMETOWN NEWS USA) - Melissa M. Fepulea'l has been specifically identified for early promotion to senior airman in the U.S. Air Force.

The airman was awarded the new rating ahead of other Air Force members by a "below-the-zone" promotion board, which considered job performance, military knowledge, bearing, exceptional qualifications, self-improvement efforts, and best overall record.

Fepulea'l is a logistics planner assigned to the 45th Logistics Readiness Flight Squadron, Patrick Air Force Base, Cocoa Beach, Fla.

She is the daughter of Paulo Fepulea'l of American Samoa.

The airman is a 2001 graduate of Samoana High School.

 Lilieni Togia graduates from Army ROTC in Kentucky

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - (HOMETOWN NEWS USA) - Lilieni B. Togia has graduated from the Army ROTC (Reserve Officers' Training Corps) Leader's Training Course at Fort Knox, Ky. The camp is a four-week leadership internship for cadets who are normally between their sophomore and junior college years. College students experience and examine the Army without incurring an obligation to serve in the Army or ROTC, and are eligible to receive two-year college scholarship offers and attend the ROTC Advanced Course at their college.

The Army observes and evaluates cadets to determine their officer potential, leadership abilities and skills, while cadets are trained to have a sound understanding of traditional leadership values. The training develops well-disciplined, highly motivated, physically conditioned students, and helps improve the cadets' self-confidence, initiative, leadership potential, and collective team cohesion. The cadets receive training in fundamental military skills, rifle marksmanship, small arms tactics, weapons training, drill and ceremonies communications, and squad-level operations field training.

The cadet is a student at New Mexico Military Institute, Roswell.

Togia is the daughter of Tufoua F. Togia of Linapuni St., Honolulu, Hawaii, and Elisapeta Togia of American Samoa.

In 2004, she graduated from Farrington High School, Honolulu.

 Richie Amisone and Mercy Te'o at Air Force Academy Prep School

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - (HOMETWON NEWS USA) - Richie L. Amisone and Mercy S. Teo have entered the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School in Colorado Springs, Colo., to qualify for appointment to the Air Force Academy. The curriculum helps students develop a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence that enables them to function in the academy's demanding environment. Students are motivated to attend the academy, graduate and be Air Force officers.

The 10-month school is designed to assist students in meeting strict academic and physical requirements of the academy. Students receive extensive instruction in English, mathematics, the basic sciences, physical education, athletic conditioning, academic preparation and military training.

To qualify for an appointment to the academy, students must complete the preparatory school program in academics and military training, pass a fitness test, exhibit strong ethical character, be recommended by the preparatory school commander and approved by the Air Force Academy board.

Cadet candidates whom complete prep school will enter the academy next summer to begin four years of study leading to a bachelor of science degree and a commission of second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

Amisone is the son of Liatama and Lydia Amisone of American Samoa. He is a 2004 graduate of Samoana High School.

Teo is the daughter of Epenesa Teo Jennings of American Samoa. Her grandparents, Leatuamalama and Tupe Teo, also reside in American Samoa. She is a 2004 graduate of Faga'tua High School.

 Samoan-Tongan, Benjamin Fifita Makisi opera tenor hits high note Down Under

by Fili Sagapolutele

To'asavili Correspondent

Saturday, August 14, 2004 - Benjamin Fifita Makisi is making a name for himself in the Opera world and so far has captured media attention in New Zealand and Australia.

Makisi, a tenor, is half Tongan and half Samoan and in July was featured in the New Zealand-based newspaper Dominion Post. He also just released a CD.

Sydney-based Makisi, 34, performed in New Zealand early this month, in The New Zealand Opera production of Mozart's classic Cosi Fan Tutte ("thus do all women"), according to the July 30th edition of the Dominion Post.

Makisi, who grew up in Wellington, New Zealand, plays the hot-headed Ferrando in the production, which tells the story of two soldiers who placed a wager over the age-old question of whether or not you can trust your lover.

"Benjamin Fifita Makisi has worked extensively in New Zealand and Australia," wrote June Townsend of Townsend Management in a letter to local radio station KSBS-FM 92.1 promoting Makisi's new CD called "Tenor of the Pacific".

The CD includes one Samoan song, a love ballad, in which Makisi sings tenor in Samoan language and was aired on KSBS-FM Wednesday morning. It attracted a few calls to the radio station because of the way the song was sung by a tenor, who sings opera.

Townsend said Makisi is currently working on tour with the New Zealand Opera company and early this year, he sang at the Prime Ministers Pacific Forum that was held in Aotearoa.

Makisi has won several major singing competitions and fellowship and among those won, said Townsend, is the 2002 McDonalds Operatic Aria award held in The Opera House in Sydney Australia.

Makisi holds a degree in musical performance from Victoria University and a masters from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Last year he toured The Barber of Seville around New Zealand with the opera company.

Last December, Makisi sang in Tonga, in a special performance before King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV and since then there has been much publicity in the Island Kingdom about Makisi.

The Dominion Post said that when Makisi was 27, he had the chance to train in Britain and the US, but thought he was too young so decided to concentrate on Australia.

Now, he is determined to break into the US and Europe and he heads there in October.

To obtain a copy of Makisi's latest CD, please contact Townsend Management: e-mail: townsend.management@bigpond.com

Kalili Hunt Jr. graduates from basic training in Texas

Saturday, August 7, 2004 - (HOMETOWN NEWS USA) -Air Force Airman 1st Class Kalili A. Hunt has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Hunt is the son Tuputausi Hunt of Auto.

He is a 2002 graduate of Samoana High School.

 Peter AhChing Jr. receives U.S. medical license in Hawaii

Saturday, July 31, 2004 - (PRESS RELEASE - Hawaii Medicine News) - The John A. Burn's School of Medicine, University of Hawaii congratulates Peter Leiataua AhChing, Jr. for passing the United States Medical Licencing Exam (USMLE) and obtaining his US Medical License in 2004.

Peter Leiataua AhChing, Jr. is the son of the late Leiataua Le Sa Peter L. Ah Ching and Mrs. Failelei "Lei" Ah Ching of Pago Pago, American Samoa. Peter Jr., is the brother of ASG Sea Captain Ronald AhChing, Katie Godinet, Marriane Reid, Josephine AhChing and Elizabeth AhChing.

He is also the nephew of Chief Airspace Officer Paul AhChing on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. This son of Pago Pago, American Samoa and Samoa has passed his United States Medical Licensing Exam in Hawaii while attending the John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa.

The US Medical License Exam (USMLE) is taken by United States and international medical students and medical doctors to practice medicine in the US. Peter Jr. has now successfully attained his US Medical License and plans to continue serving the Samoan and other Polynesian communities in Hawaii, Samoa, American Samoa and the Pacific Basin.

AhChing's published work includes, science research work in the scientific journals of (1) Genetics (2) Molecular and Cellular Biology and (3) Pacific Health Dialog on Tuberculosis in the Pacific, and also authored a book series entitled, "POLYNESIAN INTERCONNECTIONS" to promote literacy, science education on the genetic origins of the Polynesian people.

The educational books also include common medical terms in Samoan and Hawaiian to help doctors and nurses effectively communicate with Polynesian patients and provide for health care workers an opportunity to give the best medical care to the Samoans and other Polynesian communities in Hawaii and across America.

The Hawaii medical community confer our support and proud congratulations upon the parents and family of Peter Leiataua AhChing, Jr. and wish to see him provide outstanding medical service upon Hawaii patients and more cultural education on to our doctors and nurses.

We congratulate the people of American Samoa and Samoa for this Samoan medical student of persistence, determination and hard work.

 Pvt. So'oalo Ropati completes basic training in Kentucky

Saturday, July 31, 2004 - (HOMETOWN NEWS USA) - Army Pvt. Ropati F. So'oalo has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Knox, Ky.

During the nine-week training, the trainee received instruction in drill and ceremony, weapons, rifle marksmanship and bayonet training, chemical warfare, field training and tactical exercises, armed and unarmed combat, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, traditions, and core values.

Sooalo is the son of Anevili Semeatu of Pago Pago, American Samoa.

NATIVES: Army Pvt. Molimoli Sione has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina.

Saturday, July 24, 2004 - During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Sione is the daughter of Lau Sione of American Samoa.

She is a 2003 graduate of Leone High School.

 

NATIVES: SSG Fa'alevao Tuatau Jr. and SSG Fa'aola Susunu Jr. teach discipline to Iraqi soldiers

(BUTLER RANGE, IRAQ) - SSG Fa'alevao Tuatau Jr. (second from left) and SSG Fa'aola Susunu Jr. (far right) are instructors for the Iraqi National Guard. Here they take a break in the celebration at the graduation ceremony for Basic Tranees at the Iraq National Guard Academy.

SSG Fa'alevao, Unit: HHB, 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery, 1st Calvary Division, Fort Hood, Texas, is from Faga'alu, and is the son of the late Ifitoto, T. Fa'alevao. His mother is Fa'atasiga, T. Fa'alevao.

SSG Fa'aola, Unit: HHC, 1st Battalion, 8th Calvary, 1st Calvary Division, Fort Hood, Texas, is from Pago Pago and is the son of Susunu and Oilau Fa'aola.

MESSAGE FROM SSG FA'ALEVAO: "To all the Sons and Daughters of Samoa serving in the US Armed Forces, we would like to commend you on your sacrifice. Thank you for your service. From one soldier to another, "Malo le faamalosi."

Soldiers who are trained at the academy also receive an extra course, no cost to anyon: Samoan Culture. In this course, we try to emphasize discipline in all Iraqi soldiers." - SSG Fa'alevao

Sammy Tali completes basic training at Fort Benning, GA

(HOMETOWN NEWS USA) - Army Reserve Pfc. Sammy F. Tali has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga.

During the eight weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions. Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.

Tali is the son of Leualesi and stepson of Siatiu Hemana of Fagaitua, American Samoa. He graduated in 1998 from Fagaitua High School, and received an associate degree in 2002 from American Samoa Community College.

 Claire Sua

Saturday, June 5, 2004 - Claire Sua, a senior at UCLA in Westwood, CA, is swingin' away as a top softballer in the nation. She took 2003 honors as a First-Team All-American designated player. Claire also was selected First-Team All-Pacific Region and First-team All-Pac-10.

Class: Senior; Hometown: Cooper City, FL; High School: St. Thomas Aquinas; Height: 5-7; Position: 1B/DP; Birthdate: 12/31/1981; Bats/Throws: R/R

In high school, she was Gatorade Player of the Year for softball in the state of Florida. Six-time first-team All-Broward County honoree.

Four-time State Player of the Year and Broward County Player of the Year. Hit .538 as a senior with 42 RBI, 31 runs, 10 doubles and 10 home runs with an on-base percentage of .734. Career high school numbers included a .474 average, 143 hits, 140 RBI, 97 runs and 27 home runs to go with a 48-4 record in the circle, 534 strikeouts and a 0.36 ERA. Pitched a 94-inning stretch without allowing an earned run. Played ASA with the Clearwater Lady Bombers. Named a first-team ASA All-American in 1999, as her team finished third at Gold Nationals, the best-ever finish for an east coast team. Also competed three years on the varsity volleyball team. Two-time All-County volleyball player.

 Edwin Mulitalo

Saturday, June 5, 2004 - (Left to right ) Joining Edwin Mulitalo of the Baltimore Ravens at the autograph session at the PX at Fort Sam Houston in Texas last Saturday are: Edwin's older brother, Army Major Moliki Mulitalo, who is an activated Reservist serving in Fort Bliss, Texas, and first cousin, Jericho Toilolo from San Diego, CA, and Army Retiree Dave Langford, husband of Army Lt. Colonel Evelyn Vaitautolu-Langford. [courtesy photo]

Natives: SGT Tina Time & CPL Lloyd Alaimalo

Saturday, May 29, 2004 - Talofa American Samoa, I am SGT Tina Time, and along with my fellow Samoan battle buddy CPL LLoyd Alaimalo, we would like to say hello to everyone back home. I am from Futiga and CPL Alaimalo resides in Vatia, American Samoa. I am the daughter of Toilolo and Mary Time, and CPl Alaimalo is the son of Leulua'iali'i Faimafili and Galoiola Alaimalo.

We are with the 208th Transportation Palletized Loading System (PLS) Company out of Tucson, Arizona. CPL Alaimalo is an 88M truck driver and SAWgunner, and I am a 63G/63S fuel system and heavy wheel mechanic and SAW/50 Cal gunner on the M984E1 recovery vehicle. We have been in the country since February 2004, and have been moblilized since December 2003.

For the past four months since we have been in the country, our unit has had more than 60 convoys throughout Iraq and Kuwait, and have completed every mission. Fortunately, we have met fellow Samoan soldiers at different camps around Iraq, and we would like to acknowledge some of them:

PFC Berleme, Alo, and SGT Papali'i of 82nd Airborne. I would like to acknowledge my family here in Iraq, my big bro SGT Time, Mark from Ft. Lewis, brother-in-law SSG Atoe, David from Ft. Hood, Texas. Thank you to the Samoan people for your prayers and your support. We love you and miss you all dearly. May God bless you all, and may God bless our country.

Native: Airman Teve Molio'o completes basic training

Saturday, May 29, 2004 - (HOMETOWN USA) - Air Force Airman 1st Class Teve T. Molio'o has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the grandson of Fa'alagilagi Molio'o of Desha Lane, Honolulu, Hawaii, and the son of Saifa'alagi Molio'o of Pago Pago, American Samoa.

Molioo is a 1997 graduate of McKinley High School, Honolulu.

 

Army Sgt. Joannie Ha

Saturday, May 22, 2004 - A daughter, mother, wife and hero. Army Sgt. Joannie Ha answers to the call of duty in Iraq only 45 days after reuniting with her husband Army SSG Jimmy Ha who has just returned from a year long deployment. Joannie Ha hails from Vaitogi, a proud daughter of Jerry and Fata Tanuvasa and mother to 21-month old daughter Alisa Princess Ha. SSG Jimmy Ha wrote To'asavili / Samoa News that life was really hard being away from loved ones for a whole year and with Joannie in the military as well, it could mean two or three years of being apart. "I'm so proud of my wife and will never forget her in my dreams and prayers. Go get em, tiger," SSG Ha said.