Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Faleomavaega Eni Fa'aua'a Hunkin VA Clinic held the official opening and blessing of its newly expanded laboratory facility this week, an investment that will enhance healthcare services and improve access to quality medical care for veterans throughout American Samoa. Acting Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. joined Congresswoman Uifa'atali Aumua Amata, representatives from the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS), community partners, veterans, and clinic staff in commemorating the occasion.

The ceremony began with welcoming remarks by VA Clinic Director Dr. Fred Uhrle, followed by an invocation delivered by Eti Falaniko. A project overview and a brief history of the laboratory expansion were presented by VAPIHCS Associate Director of Operations Devin Woods. The nearly $2 million investment represents a collaborative effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and expand services available to veterans locally.

The upgraded facility is expected to provide faster laboratory testing, improve clinical decision-making, enhance access to care, and reduce barriers to essential medical services. “This project represents another step forward in ensuring that veterans in American Samoa receives world-class healthcare closer to home,” said Woods. “This facility stands as a reminder that no matter how far across the Pacific you may live, you were made an important part of the VA family.”

Special remarks were delivered by VAPIHCS Interim Director Thomas A. Steinbrunner, who emphasized the long-term benefits the expansion will bring to the territory's veteran population. “With the expanded laboratory capabilities here in American Samoa, more services can be delivered right here in your community,” Steinbrunner stated. “Care becomes more convenient, more efficient, and more connected. This investment reduces the need for outside referrals and allows more veterans to receive comprehensive healthcare without unnecessary travel or disruption to their daily lives.”

In his closing remarks, Acting Governor Pulumataala expressed his sincere appreciation to the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System leadership and team for their partnership and commitment to improving healthcare services in American Samoa. He also recognized the dedication of the local VA Clinic staff, whose hard work and perseverance were instrumental in bringing the project to completion. “The successful completion of this expansion reflects what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to serving our veterans,” said Acting Governor Ae Ae. “We are grateful to the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System, our community partners, and especially the local staff, whose dedication behind the scenes made this project a reality. Most importantly, this investment honors our veterans by ensuring they receive the quality care they deserve.”

“As always, thank you most of all, today and every day, to our Veterans for their service, leadership and wisdom throughout our islands,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata, who serves as Vice Chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. “Thank you to Acting Governor Pulu, Veteran Healthcare Pacific Interim Director Dr. Thomas Steinbrunner, Associate Director/Chief Operating Officer Devin Woods, American Samoa CBOC Business Manager Eti Falaniko, who led the benediction, American Samoa CBOC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Fred Urhle Jr., LBJ Chief Medical Officer Dr. Aitofele James Sunia, and all others taking part and attending.”

The ceremony concluded with a benediction by Eti Falaniko, followed by an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tour of the newly expanded laboratory facility.

The laboratory expansion represents another important step in advancing healthcare services for American Samoa's veterans and reinforces the ongoing commitment of federal and territorial partners to improve healthcare accessibility and outcomes across the territory.