Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Mary J. Tuinei Gneshin, born and raised in American Samoa and a graduate of Leone High School, has been appointed as the Commanding Officer of the 78th Legal Operations Detachment, United States Army Reserve.

On May 3, 2026, she assumed command at an official Change of Command Ceremony presided over by Brigadier General Kyson M. Johnson, Commander of the United States Army Reserve Legal Command, at Fiddler’s Green, Joint Forces Training Base, in Los Alamitos, California.

Lieutenant Colonel (Promotable) Gneshin's appointment means she has also been selected for promotion to the rank of Colonel — a remarkable achievement that reflects years of dedication, service, and excellence in the United States Army.

This is a significant milestone not only for Lt. Col. Gneshin and her family, but for all of American Samoa. She is a shining example of what our islands' sons and daughters can achieve, and a source of great pride for our High Schools and for our entire community.