Amata releases statement honoring the heroic service members who gave their lives

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released this statement honoring the US. Service Members slain in the attack last week in Afghanistan.

“The United States lost 13 brave members of our all-volunteer Armed Forces, who were selflessly serving others and in Afghanistan to get others to safety.

“They knew they were working in risk-filled, dangerous circumstances, but they were serving the nation, helping bring Americans home and allies away from harm.

“Like many before them, they are now part of a great, heroic honored legacy. All their families are now Gold Star families, and have our deep sympathy, gratitude and love.

“Of other Service Members that were wounded, their service and sacrifice must also be remembered.

Finally, many are still serving there, and remain in our prayers until this operation is over,” Uifa’atali Amata stated.

John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

The Pentagon has released the following names of the fallen:

•                Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah

•                Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosariopichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts

•                Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California

•                Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California

•                Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska

•                Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Indiana

•                Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas

•                Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Missouri

•                Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyoming

•                Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, CA

•                Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California

•                Navy Hospitalman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio

•                Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee.