Top Character Strengths

HUMOR - LEADERSHIP - SPIRITUALITY

I didn't get to know my dad very well, but he remains my greatest role model. I see the way people's eyes light up when they talk about him or recount a funny story; it seems like everyone who knew him loved and respected him. I aspire to be like him every day; he was the kind of man whose footsteps you'd want to follow. To this day, the best compliment someone can give me is to tell me I remind them of my dad. He was the morale-booster of his unit, always with a quick joke and a kind word, leading by example.

Character Strength Stories:

Humor - From what I've heard from those who knew him best, he had the best sense of humor, a quick wit, and an infectious laugh. It's often said that when you were the punch line of one of his many jokes, that laugh added an extra little dig. He had an effortless sense of humor that just put everyone in a good mood. He always knew how to put a smile on our faces, whether it was surprising us with an indoor Super Soaker fight or playing pranks on us.

Leadership - From the stories told by his unit, one in particular stands out to me: While in charge of the motor pool, his team had to pull an all-nighter to unload equipment. Even though he knew they needed to finish before morning, he told everyone to get some rest. He then took on the task of unloading by himself and still managed to be the first one up in the morning. It is often mentioned how he was a source of support and guidance for his team.

Spirituality - To find himself and better understand his team, my dad attended all the religious services offered during deployment. He said it helped him gain a better sense of his own spirituality and relationship with a higher power, while also deepening his connection with everyone in his unit. He would openly share his faith and beliefs, embracing those of others.

Submitted by Joshua, Surviving Son

About Travis Manion Foundation
Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) is a national nonprofit that invests in veterans and families of the fallen to lead and serve in communities. Named in honor of 1stLt Travis Manion, USMC, who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq in 2007, TMF is guided by the five words he said before his second and final deployment, “If Not Me, Then Who….”

Through veteran-led service, youth mentorship, and leadership programs, TMF empowers veterans to find renewed purpose and inspires Americans to honor fallen heroes through service. Explore ways to get involved with TMF.