Transcript
Russell Moore was killed in 1956 when heavy equipment crushed him as he was working on the dock in Pago Pago.
He was 19 and had sailed to American Samoa on the survey vessel HMNZS Lachlan.
The leader of the defence force's repatriation project, Te Auraki, Group Captain Carl Nixon, explained the ceremony at Satala cemetery.
The ceremony for Russell Moore follows the dis-interment of Royal New Zealand Air Force Flight Lieutenant George Beban and Fireman Leading Aircraftman Ralph Scott from Fiji last week.
In Pago Pago, representatives from the US Army Reserve attended the blessing alongside Maori elders.
A forensic and archaeology team disinterred Russell Moore, with the help of local workers.
His identity will be confirmed at a US Army Reserve facility in the territory.
Group Captain Carl Nixon says Royal New Zealand Navy sailors will stand guard throughout the process.
Russell Moore is one of 37 servicemen and dependants that are expected to be repatriated over the next six months.
His remains will be returned to New Zealand on Sunday morning.
