With his more than four decades of experience with the US Army, Retired Lt. Colonel Paepaetele Mapu Jamais commands respect not only in military circles but the community.
When he kicked off his campaign for American Samoa’s seat in Congress, his military friends were there to support him.
Among them was Retired US Army Chaplain Rev. Fouvale who shared his experience working under Paepaetele’s leadership.
Another veteran and three time candidate for Congress Rosie Tago Lancaster emceed the event.
Addressing supporters and invitees at Maliu Mai Beach Resort , Paepaetele said he wants to be a messenger for the people of American Samoa in the US Congress.
He says he has the right connections in DC to get things done for the territory.
Play Audio Paepaetele AS messenger
Paepaetele says he is following an admonition of his late mother, to remember the people when he becomes successful.
He talked about why health care is at the top of his list of priorities.
He said last November the LBJ Hospital recorded one of the highest number of deaths.
The fatalities included a Filipino mother in her early 30’s who rented from him.
According to the candidate, the woman was admitted for a urinary infection and was pronounced dead four days later.
As the person who established the local army reserve and the PX store, and serves as the civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army, Paepaetele is confident he can make use of his contacts in high places to get q new hospital for American Samoa.
Play AudioPaepaetele hospital
Paepaetele is currently the director of the JROTC Program and this will be his second attempt for Congress.
