TOP CHARACTER STRENGTHS

BRAVERY - HUMOR - PERSEVERANCE

Navy Special Warfare Operator Chief Petty Officer (SEAL), Chief Special Warfare Operator, Zackary Wilson Miller, II, graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science in 2004. Zack's athleticism and leadership aptitude in early life led him to enlist in the U.S. Navy in November, 2004, with one goal in mind. On Sept. 1, 2007 Zack entered Navy SEAL basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUDS) training in Coronado. He graduated in 2008.

Zack was a highly decorated combat veteran with numerous awards and deployments. His awards include the Bronze Star for Valor and Extraordinary Heroism as part of an overseas combat operation, Purple Heart, Defense Meritorious Service medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor (2), Joint Service Commendation Medal with C (Combat Conditions), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor (3), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal with C, Combat Action Ribbon (2), Presidential Unit Citation (3), Navy "E" Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal (5), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal (3), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal (2), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal (2), and numerous personal and unit decorations.

Zack was known for his unparalleled work ethic that was only matched by his unending positive attitude, sense of humor and charm. Zack was a devoted son, friend, and teammate who imparted his talents through selfless service to our nation.

Character Strength Story:
Bravery- Zack was shot during an ambush in Afghanistan. He continued to fight even though he was injured. His leader had to insist he leave combat to receive medical treatment. The next morning, the team was holding a very important meeting to discuss the events of the previous day and night. Zack walked down from the hospital to the meeting in his hospital gown that apparently was not closed properly. He entered the meeting after it had begun and apparently was feeling no pain at the time. He was greeted with cheers from his teammates (not so much from the Officer leading this important meeting). He didn't want to miss a thing, and insisted on going right back to work. 

Humor- At one of Zack's memorials (Norfolk), one of his SEAL best friends spoke, and said that when they were in training, Zack spent a lot of time on his cell phone when not training. This is when cell service had "minutes." His friend Luke thought, "man, he sure is using a lot of his minutes," and asked, "Zack who are you talking to?" Zack replied without hesitation, "my mom." Luke laughed and said, "Well I guess you are a mama's boy" and Zack replied, "Yes, I guess I am."

Perseverance- Zack died from Glioblastoma. During his illness he continued to go to work, train, run, work out, etc. His attitude was always positive. He was surrounded by tons of friends from all over the country. He passed away six weeks after diagnosis.

-Submitted by Kimberly, Surviving Mother