Unexploded ordnance discovered in Aua safely detonated

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In a combined Governmental and Private Sector effort the Unexploded Ordnance discovered in the Village of Aua last month was safely destroyed in a controlled detonation at the McConnell Dowell quarry late last week. 

The US Army Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team was escorted out to the site in Aua for an initial assessment of the ordinance. After their assessment they determined that it would be safe to remove from the Aua site and could be transported to the McConnell Dowell quarry.

After coordination between the ASG Departments and Agencies as well as the US ARMY, US Army Reserves and McConnell Dowell the ordnance was transported to the quarry and under the guidance of the US Army EOD team and the McConnell Dowell Safety team was safely detonated shortly before 3:00 pm Thursday, July 8.

“We would like to thank all of the American Samoa Government Department and Agencies, the US Army, US Army Reserves, the US Coast Guard and McConnell Dowell for their assistance in carrying out this operation.  We would also like to thank the People of Aua for their patience and understanding as we carried out this very important operation,” the Dept. of Homeland Security said in a statement received Friday morning.