Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been informed about the death of Private First Class David Tipo Toomalatai in Iraq.  According to the Department of Defense, PFC Toomalatai was killed on Saturday, January 27, 2007, when an Up-Armored Humvee he was riding struck an IED (improvised explosive device) while conducting a reconnaissance mission in Baghdad, Iraq. 

 PFC David Toomalatai is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Vailala and Sally Toomalatai – originally from Matautu and Lotofaga, Samoa who are currently residing in Long Beach, California.
 
PFC Toomalatai was 19 years and 9 months old and served in the U.S. Army (Regular) for one year at the time of his death.  He was assigned to the HHT, 2nd Squadron, 8th Cavalry, 1BCT in Fort Hood, Texas when he was deployed to Iraq.

 “It is always a difficult and a very sad time whenever we hear about our men and women in uniform killed in war, but that is especially so to the parents and loved ones of David Toomalatai,” said Faleomavaega.  “Upon receiving the sad news, I called the parents of PFC David Toomalatai in Long Beach to offer my condolences on the passing of their loving son.  In my conversation with Mr. Vailala Toomalatai, I extended my heartfelt and deepest sympathy to him and his wife and family members.  I also offered my prayers for them during their moment of grief.”

 “David’s selfless service and sacrifice resembles the devotion and commitment by his fellow Samoan brothers and sister that have died before him in defense of our country and safeguarding the countless freedoms we enjoy each day.  I pray that our Heavenly Father will comfort them and members of their family during this most difficult of time,” Faleomavaega concluded.