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Three-year ROTC scholarship awarded to THS Cadet Command Sergeant Major

Cadet Command Sergeant Major Charles Tauiliili (right), Cadet CPT Loring Faiivae (left) and Cadet Colonel Olefa Fepuleai (center)
The third ROTC award this year going to a Tafuna High School student
Source: JROTC Program, American Samoa

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In a notable achievement for Tafuna High School and its community in American Samoa, Cadet Command Sergeant Major Charles Tauiliili has been awarded a three-year National Army ROTC Scholarship. The scholarship, valued at over $80,000, covers full tuition and fees, includes an annual book allowance of $1,200, and provides a monthly stipend of $420 for the sophomore through senior years of college.

Tauiliili, a cadet leader from the Tafuna High School JROTC program, is among three cadets from his school to receive this scholarship in the current academic year. He plans to attend Southern Utah University (SUU) in the fall of 2024 to study mechanical engineering. Although initially awarded the scholarship for the University of Nevada Las Vegas, Tauiliili opted to transfer it to SUU, attracted by the university's Army ROTC program. Upon completing his degree, he will be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

Additionally, Tauiliili has secured a Founder’s scholarship from SUU worth $55,264 for all 4 years which brings his total scholarships earned to $135,264 for the duration of his college career.

Winner of a three-year ROTC scholarship, c_CSM Charles Tauiliili is the son Ionatana and Falaga Tauiliili from Tafuna. His achievement is a point of pride for both his family and the local community, emphasizing the value of dedication and hard work. [courtesy photo]

Tafuna High School's Army JROTC Program leaders, Major Siimoa Galoia, Master Sergeant Acania Puletasi, and Sergeant First Class Lei Solaita, congratulate Tauiliili on his accomplishments.

Principal Tutuila Togilau and Counselor Fiatele Aiono were also acknowledged for their support in the scholarship application process, highlighting the role of school officials in student success.

Charles’ scholarship win underscores the support and quality of the JROTC program at Tafuna High School, demonstrating the potential of its students to achieve significant accomplishments with appropriate guidance and opportunities.

The community looks forward to Tauiliili's future contributions as a U.S. Army officer.