American Samoa Army reservists who perform mortuary functions are deploying this week to the Middle East.
US Vice President Mike Pence greets American Samoa's US army reserves in Pago Pago, Sunday, April 23, 2017. Photo: Official White House Photo by D. Myles Cullen
Fifteen of the 18 member contingent are women.
They were farewelled at a church service this week in American Samoa which was packed with parents, spouses and children.
The soldiers will be away for six to eight months
Lieutenant Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga told the group they performed a very important service, making sure that the remains of soldiers who die on the battlefield were handled in a dignified manner for families waiting for their return home.
He advised the soldiers to have faith in God and be assured of the prayers of not only their families but the whole territory.
The contingent leaves tomorrow.
