Department of the Interior Joins American Samoa in Celebrating Flag Day and Announces Key Investments Supporting Freedom 250

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 29, 2026

Department of the Interior Joins American Samoa in Celebrating Flag Day and Announces Key Investments Supporting Freedom 250

PAGO PAGO, American Samoa — The U.S. Department of the Interior’s (DOI) leadership joined Governor Pula and the people of American Samoa in commemorating Flag Day, honoring the historic relationship between the United States and the territory and announcing new investments to support infrastructure, education and economic opportunity. The DOI delegation was led by Deputy Secretary Katharine MacGregor and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular, International, and Ocean Affairs William Hague.

Flag Day marks the anniversary of April 17, 1900, when the American flag was first raised over Tutuila and Aunu’u, establishing a lasting partnership grounded in shared history, service and mutual respect. Flag Day serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between American Samoa and the United States.

During the ceremony, Deputy Secretary MacGregor highlighted American Samoa’s exceptional youth that will shape America’s future and recognized the extraordinary military service of American Samoans, who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces at very high rates. Their contributions reflect a deep tradition of patriotism and sacrifice.

This year’s celebration also aligns with Freedom 250, the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary. The initiative highlights the stories, heritage and communities across states and territories that define the nation.

As part of its continued partnership with American Samoa, the Department of the Interior announced several key investments: 

· $30,000 grant through the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) to support educational and cultural programming tied to Flag Day and Freedom 250, promoting public understanding of American Samoa’s history and its role in the American story.

· More than $2 million in funding from the Bureau of Reclamation for water infrastructure projects to improve public health and ensure reliable access to clean water across the territory.

· $270,000 grant to support public education and outreach related to offshore mineral exploration, aimed at increasing awareness and fostering informed community engagement on economic development opportunities.

These investments reflect our commitment to strengthening infrastructure, expanding opportunity and supporting long-term economic growth in American Samoa. The Department of the Interior is proud to partner with American Samoa to support critical infrastructure, safeguard public health and ensure reliable access to clean water.

The Department reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with American Samoa through OIA and other federal partners, emphasizing efforts to listen, learn and ensure that local communities share in the benefits of federal initiatives.

As Flag Day celebrations concluded, Interior leadership honored the strength, unity and shared purpose that continue to bind American Samoa and the United States, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to participate in this year’s commemoration of Flag Day and Freedom 250 and reaffirmed their enduring support for our fellow Americans in American Samoa.

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