The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Leanne J. Leigh, is in the territory this week to naturalize six active duty military personnel.
This marks the first in person visit by the USCIS to the territory in eight years.
Naturalization ceremonies took place virtually due to the covid epidemic.
Ms Leigh and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Federal Security Director Nanea Vasta met with Lt Governor Laapui Talauega Eleasalo Ale on Tuesday.
Director Leigh remarked, “We are really excited to be here to hold the naturalization ceremony for new citizens. We look forward to continuing our engagement with American Samoa to better assist the military community.”
Lt Governor La’apui thanked the group for visiting American Samoa and highlighted the significance of their support for the local community. “This ceremony is crucial for helping these individuals become naturalized and join our active duty members,” he said.
TSA Federal Security Director Nanea Vasta briefly met with Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga at the airport Monday night upon her arrival. They briefly reviewed ongoing efforts to improve airport security and ensure smooth travel operations. Both officials exchanged views on enhancing passenger safety measures while maintaining efficient airport processes.
Director Vasta discussed TSA Officer training and opportunities to train and hire additional TSA Officers.
She said, “I appreciate the TSA team in American Samoa for their continued excellent work. We are fully staffed, and I look forward to creating more job opportunities for locals who want to join our TSA team in American Samoa.”
Photo: L-R Tepora Paga, Lt Gov La’apui Talauega E.V. Ale, USCIS District Director Leanne J.Leigh, Honolulu Field Of ice Director Jayci Roney, USCIS Officer Evagelike Almazan, TSA Federal Security Director Nanea Vasta.
