TOP CHARACTER STRENGTH

BRAVERY

Kareem was 14 years old and living in New Jersey in 2001 when the terrorist attacks on 9/11 happened. He felt so strongly that as a Muslim American, he wanted to show that not all Muslims were fanatics and that many like him were willing to lay down their lives to protect and to serve his beloved nation. He enlisted immediately after he graduated from High School, and was deployed to Iraq in July 2006. In August 2007, he finally came home; and now rests at Arlington National Cemetery in Section 60.

During his short time in service, he received a Bronze Star and Purple Heart and was promoted posthumously to Corporal. In 2008, Colin Powell highlighted Kareem’s legacy from an article he had seen in The New Yorker, and on the televised program Meet the Press he acknowledged Kareem’s message to everyone; that Muslim Americans can fight for their country proudly, and even lay down their life if needed. He is a true hero. He was a loving and caring person and he always put his friends, family and just about anyone who needed help first. He loved children! Someday he dreamed of having his own. When he was deployed, his fellow soldiers described him as someone who always gave his best effort to every job he performed and was always prepared to help others when he finished his duties. Kareem was always smiling no matter what was going on. Some of his passions included sports, most especially his great love for the Dallas Cowboys. His true idol was Muhammad Ali, who he also met. He loved to cook and watch the Food Network learn new recipes to make for me. Pepper Shrimp was his specialty.