Top Character Strengths

LOVE - LEADERSHIP - TEAMWORK

Colonel Robert D. Costello Jr. (Ret) died July 7, 2015 after a short battle with liver cancer. He was a career military officer who served with distinction in the United States Army for 27 years. During his career, he led soldiers in peace and in combat, deploying to Iraq during the initial phases of the Iraq War, serving as Chief Logistician for the Coalition Provisional Authority, where he earned the Bronze Star. In addition to his tour in Iraq he had multiple assignments overseas and in the continental United States. He was a devoted family man and friend. He never missed an opportunity to show his love for his family, whether it was a small act of sending a note, making time to help them with their homework, or driving them across the country.

Character Strength Story:

LOVE - My husband was always helping others or volunteering to serve others with physical labor, writing resumes or letting someone borrow his truck.

LEADERSHIP - He was selected to be a part of the Coalition Provisional Authority and served as the Chief Logistician during the initial phases of the Iraq War, where he earned a bronze star.

TEAMWORK - He loved the military and loved being in the Army. He left the military after serving 7 years but remained in the Army Reserves. He served with FEMA for 5 years until he decided to go back into the Army. Even after 27 years, he would contemplate about missing the camaraderie he had in the military. He thanked every veteran he came across. He could not make a trip to the store without approaching someone who was wearing a “Veteran Hat” and thanking them for their service.

- Submitted by Kimberly, Surviving Wife