Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he will be attending the funeral services for Mrs. Margaret “Maggie” Awamura Inouye scheduled for Thursday, March 23, 2006 in Honolulu, Hawaii.

 “Although most in American Samoa have never had the privilege of meeting this great woman, we have benefitted greatly from her sacrifices and tremendous efforts,” Faleomavaega said.  “Our great friend Fofogaosamoa Senator Daniel Inouye credited her with everything he has done when he said, ‘she was my inspiration, and all that I accomplished could not have been done without her at my side.’ They were a great team and American Samoa reaped the fruits of their labor and kindness.” 

 “As a Territory, American Samoa does not have the benefit of a Senator or a representative in the U.S. Senate.  For almost 45 years, we have been relying on the kindness and assistance of Senator Inouye to support legislations in the Senate that will provide federal assistance to our territory.”

 Congressman Faleomavaega concluded saying, “No other Senator has done more for the people of American Samoa than the great Senator from Hawaii – Fofogaosamoa Daniel Inouye.  I am honored to attend the funeral services for his late wife and pay my final respects to this great Japanese American woman – Mrs. Margaret Awamura Inouye.”