Aleaga Fuafiva is one of the longest-serving firefighters in the country and often his is a name synonymous with bravery, dedication, and selfless service. 

At 53 years old, he has impressive 33 years of service with the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services of Samoa (F.E.S.A). 

Mr. Fuafiva's journey as a firefighter began at the young age of 21 in 1992, when the only fire station in Samoa was located in Apia. Over the years, he has witnessed more than a thousand fires, ranging from house fires to natural disasters and traffic accidents. 

Despite the intensity and trauma of such incidents, Mr. Fuafiva has remained steadfast in his commitment to serving the community and ensuring the safety of the people of Samoa.

From starting as a firefighter to becoming a senior officer and now holding the position of Commander of Operations, Mr. Fuafiva has risen through the ranks due to his unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership skills. He credits his ability to deal with the trauma of his job to prayer and his deep sense of responsibility towards his Samoan community.

"Prayer is the answer to the works that we were merely exist to carry out for our community, it isn't an easy job but with God blessing's upon my life, has helped me with the duty I hold," he said in an interview with this newspaper.

One of the highlights of Mr. Fuafiva's career was when he led the operation in 2016 where an explosion at one of the fuel tanks at the Matautu Wharf killed an employee of the Petroleum Product Supplies Ltd. 

It was one of the scariest moments of his life where five members of his team including him were admitted to the hospital after the rescue mission.

"I am no hero, I am just a humble servant," he said.

Every year on World Firefighters Day, he reflects on the challenging yet rewarding moments of his job, from terrifying scenes to the camaraderie and support of his fellow firefighters. 

"I still think about those days, something that you would never forget," he said.

Despite the heart-wrenching moments he has experienced, such as the tragic incident during Cyclone Evan in 2012 when a man lost his life trying to save Mr Fuafiva from the floods, he remains committed to his role as a firefighter. 

He has witnessed significant changes and improvements within the fire station, including the introduction of new equipment and a growing interest among the younger generation in pursuing a career in firefighting.

"In my early years, we were short handed in many areas, so we sacrificed a lot of our quality times with our family to come to work. Hours can turn into weeks being away from family," he recalled.

F.E.S.A Commissioner Tanuvasa Petone Mauga praised Mr. Fuafiva for his exceptional service to the public and the nation of Samoa, highlighting his reliability and dedication throughout his more than three decades of service.

 As the world celebrated Firefighters Day with the theme "Bravery in Unity, protecting our community and honouring our heroes," Mr. Fuafiva stands as a shining example of courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. 

Mr. Fuafiva may be considered a hero by many, but for him, his work as a firefighter is simply a calling to serve his community and his people. His journey from a young man with zero experience to a revered and respected firefighter is a testament to his unwavering dedication, bravery, and commitment to keeping Samoa safe. 

Happily married for more than 20 years, he acknowledged the support of his wife, kids and his family throughout his lifetime and urges the young firefighters within the S.F.E.S.A to remain diligent and passionate about their mission as they are saving and changing lives.