Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has received official notification from the Department of the Army at the Pentagon announcing the death of Sergeant Raymond Sasa Sevaaetasi.  According to the U.S. Army, SGT Sevaaetasi died on April 11, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near his military vehicle while conducting combat operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 Sergeant Sevaaetasi served in the United States Army for 9 years and 5 months.  He was assigned to the 15th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas. 

 Sergeant Raymond Sasa Sevaaetasi was married to Maugaosaa “Angel” and they have two children – Nakaysaia and Talimaitalosaga Tualeata.  He is the son of Robert Sevaaetasi of Pago Pago and Leata Siaki Sevaaetasi of Leone, American Samoa.  He was 29 years old.

 “I am very saddened by the news of Sergeant Raymond Sevaaetasi’s death,” Faleomavaega said.  “Sergeant Sevaaetasi made the ultimate sacrifice while helping bring freedom to the people of Iraq.  He is now the twelfth Samoan killed in the war on terror according to my count.”

 “I extend my most heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Raymond’s wife, Angel, and their two children, Nakaysia and Talimaitalosaga, also to his parents, Robert and Leata, and the Sevaaetasi and Ameperosa families on their great loss.  Raymond will be remembered for his bravery and his honorable service to our country,” Faleomavaega concluded.