The spirit of service and national pride was celebrated as Samoa presented its highest honours and medals to 33 deserving recipients during the country's 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
The recipients included sporting figures, career civil servants, activists, and champions of culture and environment.
Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt said independence was achieved through the courage, faith, and hard work of their ancestors, chiefs, orators, wives, caretakers, and all who contributed to building the nation.
The Prime Minister spoke of the importance of remembering the past, saying that without yesterday there would be no today. He encouraged all Samoans to honour the sacrifices of their forefathers and to continue preparing a brighter future for the generations to come.
The Prime Minister also reminded the people that Samoa is founded on God and that faith remains the bridge that supports the nation through both peaceful times and challenges. He encouraged everyone to continue serving their communities, believing that true leadership comes through service and that no service is ever wasted.
