“These computers were procured for use by the LBJ Tropical Medical Center through the DOD surplus program,” the Congressman said.  “The DOD surplus program was established in 1972 and is responsible for offering excess military property to federal agencies or state and local governments.  The surplus program maintains an inventory of items such as air conditions, vehicles, furniture, clothing, and computers.”

         “At this time, I want to commend Chief Taufete’e Faumuina and Mr. Sandy Ilaoa for their hard work and commitment to improving health care services in America Samoa.  The computer equipment they have procured was located at a warehouse in Canadaigua, New York,” the Congressman explained.  “I contacted the DOD to arrange for shipment of the computer equipment to American Samoa.  The computer equipment was shipped to Travis Airforce Base in California and from there is scheduled to depart to American Samoa on July 18, 2003 and arrive July 20, 2003.”

         “This shipment comes at no cost to LBJ or ASG and this is as a result of legislation Senator Inouye and I worked on to provide free shipment via military flights for medical equipment and supplies bound for American Samoa.  As always, I would like to thank the DOD for its support in providing shipment of our computer equipment.  These computers will allow LBJ to upgrade its systems which will allow it to better serve the American Samoan public and provide better care and service to its patients.”

         “Once again, it was my honor to be able to assist LBJ and I would urge other governmental agencies to take advantage of the DOD surplus program,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “For more information regarding this program, please contact me at my DC or Utulei office.”