For US Army Sergeant First Class Joshua Tauvela Fale, stepping back into Samoan soil wasn’t just a return. It was honouring and giving back to the community that shaped the person he is today.

Sgt Fale was part of the US Army medical team that took part in the Soifua Clinic.

The 33-year-old is from Vailuutai and Mulifanua but was born and raised in American Samoa. 

“Serving means honouring both of my homes — the United States and Samoa. It’s about defending the values that unite us and representing my culture with pride through service, connecting communities and sharing experiences.”

In 2016, Joshua got his pea, which has played a big role in his journey. 

“I carry my tatau everywhere with me as it’s my identity. I want people to see my tatau and know I am from Samoa, everywhere I go. That’s how meaningful it is to me. At some point, when I’m done with military services, I would like to come back and continue serving our community, empowering our future,” said Sgt Fale.

 Joshua was raised with the values of tautua (service) and fa‘aaloalo (respect). These virtues have shaped his perspective on leadership, community, and responsibility. Seeing the military, particularly the US Army,  as a path to live out those values on a broader scale.

"The Army’s emphasis on structure, discipline, and servant leadership aligned with my personal beliefs, “ he said.

“That leadership means putting others first and enabling your team to succeed. My decision was also influenced by my father, who served in the US Army. Following in his footsteps was a personal honour and a way to carry on our family’s tradition of service.”

The early start of Joshua's military journey was challenging. Leaving Samoa for the first time and adjusting to new cultures, environments, fast-paced life, and expectations was high. This was a major personal transition that became a challenge in helping build the skills such as resilience and adaptability, he needed to succeed. 

But his biggest challenge was being separated from his family to overcome his struggles. He is dedicated to staying grounded in his roots, leaning on faith and remaining committed to the well-being of his fellow soldiers. He strongly believes in leading by example, maintaining mental and physical readiness.

“Morale is built on connection, trust, and leadership. We support each other and stay focused on our mission and purpose. Strong camaraderie and servant leadership play a huge role — when leaders prioritise their team’s well-being, morale stays strong, even in challenging times,” he said.

 “I’ve been in the Army for 10 years, being mobilised to a country I had never been to before. Immersing in different cultures, I have realised that despite our differences in cultural norms, many of us share similar values, which makes it possible to work together effectively across cultures. The military has shaped me into a more disciplined, patient, and purpose-driven individual. 

"It strengthened my ability to listen, to think strategically, and to lead with intention. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about rank — it’s about being intentional, having integrity, and the impact you leave on others.” 

Sgt Fale has been assigned to be the officer in charge of the Soifua Manuia mission and will continue until he has completed the three years. He has completed the first year of his assignment and has two years left.  

Despite being on the mission, Joshua was able to visit and reunite with his family on the island. 

Sgt Fale and the US Army medical team returned to state-side on Friday, 2 May , but will be back in July.