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Former Governor Sasao Gouland of Chuuk Passed Away in Hawaii

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): March 10, 2011 - It is with profound sadness to inform of the passing of the Honorable Sasao H Gouland, who served as Governor of Chuuk from 1990 to 1996. He was almost 78 years old when he died on 06 March 2011 (Sunday) at noon (HST) at Queens Medical Center in Honolulu. The late Governor Gouland fell ill while visiting his children who are working in Hawaii.

Sasao Gouland was the third popularly elected governor of Chuuk after the state constitution went into effect. Prior to serving as Chuuk's chief executive and holding other positions of great responsibility, Gouland was a member of the Congress of Micronesia, serving as chairman of the Committee on Resource and Development. This was during the era of the Government of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, when the Congress of Micronesia took the lead to advocate self-determination and greater self-government - a movement that culminated in the creation of the Federated States of Micronesia. He was also a delegate to the Micronesian Constitutional Convention of 1977 in Saipan that paved the way for the creation of the Federated States of Micronesia.

Present at the creation of the new Nation, Sasao Gouland continued to serve in the Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia. He also served as member of or advisor to various boards and councils, including as chairman of the Micronesian Maritime Authority. He continued to serve as member of the Board of Directors of the FSM Telecommunication Board and the Truk Trading Corporation until his passing away.

Details about Memorial Service to be held in Honolulu will be provided when received or become available. You may also inquire by contacting the FSM Consulate in Honolulu (ph 808 836-4775).