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American Samoa Government - PR001-08192025
Posted: August 19, 2025
Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Opens DSAR and
US Coast Guard Search Coordination and Execution Course
The Department of Search and Rescue (DSAR), in collaboration with the United States Coast Guard, officially opened its Search Coordination and Execution Course this week at the VA Office in Tafuna on August 19, 2025.
DSAR Director Utumoeaau Alefosio warmly welcomed the esteemed instructors and respected participants to the four-day training. Representing the Honorable Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula, the Honorable Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. attended the opening ceremony and delivered special remarks.
In his address, Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that “our territory is truly blessed to have the U.S. Coast Guard transfer their knowledge and skills for the mission of search and rescue to improve the safety of our people.” He also reflected on the recent tragedy of a 15-year-old boy swept out to sea, underscoring how timely this training is for American Samoa.
“With the support of our government and local agencies, this program will provide our partners with the tools to strengthen search, rescue, fire protection, marine patrol, and emergency medical services,” said the Lieutenant Governor. He expressed gratitude to Director Alefosio for leading this initiative and encouraged participants to “Coordinate and Execute.”
The training is being led by an expert team from the U.S. Coast Guard, including:
● Operations Specialist 1st Class (OS1) Chad Dills – Lead Instructor
● Lieutenant Madeline Romito – Instructor
● Mr. Jerrod Sneller – Instructor
● Commander Preston Hieb – Chief of Incident Management, Senior Official
● Mr. Kevin Cooper – Search and Rescue Program Manager
This joint effort highlights the strong partnership between the Department of Search and Rescue and the United States Coast Guard, reinforcing their shared mission to safeguard the lives of the people of American Samoa.
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