KITTI, Pohnpei — July 27, 2026 — President H.E. Wesley W. Simina and Madame First Lady Ancelly Simina joined the people of Kitti in commemorating Kitti Memorial Day, honoring the 179 men who were sent from Kitti to Kosrae during World War II and reaffirming the Federated States of Micronesia’s enduring commitment to peace, unity and liberty.
Speaking before traditional leaders, community members, and the families of those remembered, President Simina said the annual observance is both a tribute to those whose sacrifices shaped Kitti’s history and a reminder of the values that continue to unite the nation.
“Though born from a difficult chapter in our history, that journey reminds us how deeply connected our islands have always been,” he said. “The histories of Pohnpei and Kosrae, like those of all our states, are intertwined. Our nation has long been bound together not only by geography, but also by our shared history and the resilience of our people.”
President Simina noted that he was pleased to accept the personal invitation of the Luhkenmoanlap of Kitti to attend the commemoration, emphasizing that events preserving local history are of national importance.
“Because this day is important to Kitti – it is therefore important to the Federated States of Micronesia. Our communities, municipalities and villages all around our islands are rich with stories and history like the one we commemorate today”.
The President reflected on the words enshrined in the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia: “Having known war, we hope for peace.” He said the experiences of the 179 men, along with countless other Micronesians whose lives were shaped by World War II, remind the nation that peace must never be taken for granted.
“The hope expressed in our Constitution is a responsibility,” President Simina said. He emphasized that preserving peace is a shared responsibility carried not only by governments, but also by traditional leaders, families, churches, educators, and every citizen who chooses unity over division.
Concluding his remarks, President Simina reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to honoring the legacy of those remembered by building a future founded on peace, unity, and respect for the dignity of every person.
The Kitti Memorial Day observance serves as an enduring reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations and reinforces the nation’s shared commitment to ensuring that the lessons of history continue to guide the Federated States of Micronesia toward a peaceful and united future.
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