TOP CHARACTER STRENGTHS

BRAVERY - TEAMWORK - LEADERSHIP

Jose was often seen as the go-to guy for everything. Despite being a young NCO, Jose took it upon himself to ensure all of his men knew they could go to him for advice or assistance without judgment. Our home was open to his fellow soldiers for all holidays so no one was left alone—something he held close because he came from a large family who made everyone feel included and loved. In his downtime, Jose loved to work on cars, usually taking apart one or two vehicles at a time for complete engine repairs. Jose was a brave soldier, a loving son, incredible husband, and, for 18 days, he had the opportunity to be the dad he always dreamed of becoming when he met our newborn baby girl.

Character Strength Story:

BRAVERY - The day before Jose was killed, he called to say he loved me and our daughter. He ended the phone call by telling me he felt that something was going to happen and he wouldn’t make it home. Jose planned his entire funeral and then left on his final mission where he was killed in action. Despite “knowing” that he wouldn’t make it home, Jose always stated that his men and mission always came first. Jose was brave in every way possible and knew that he had to be there with his men if his time ever came.

TEAMWORK - When Jose and I met, we instantly knew “this is it.” Although we were only 19 and 21, we wanted to get married. But before that happened, Jose made sure to tell me, “Sharri, before we get married you need to know—my men will always come before you. Their lives depend on me, yours doesn’t.” Jose knew that teamwork and leadership required his 100% dedication, which also required a wife who understood the importance of it.

LEADERSHIP - When Jose was killed, his men reached out to me often and the most common statement was, “Jose was the best leader I’ve ever had.” I was told that he led his men in a way that made them feel safe and secure, ready to fight regardless of the situation.

—Submitted by Sharri, Surviving Wife