Who We Are

So in this nutty world of the internets, one of the first people to become a regular Left of the Dialian was my pal Tom, whom I still have never met. (Although Top Management and my Mess o’ Kids has met Tom’s wife and chillens.)

Tom sent me the following yesterday, and I’m posting it here with his permission.

Kareem R. Khan, an American soldier, is buried in Arlington Cemetery. 

When, on September 11, 2001, he decided to join the army, no one told him that he could not join because of his faith. Khan, an American soldier, an American Muslim, was killed in Iraq in the summer of 2007 serving his country. 

Kahn died for me and my wife and my children. And no matter how ill-advised I feel the war in Iraq is, Khan’s sacrifice and his inherent nobility (and that of all the men and women who serve) cannot be denied. Kareem R. Khan was an American soldier, a Muslim, who died for me. Kahn did not join the army, and I did not serve in the Marine Corps, so that people could shout “Muslim,” as though it were an insult. Kareem Khan and I served so that men and women would be free to practice their faith in peace and freedom. 

Kareem R. Khan was an American soldier, an American Muslim, and he died for me and my wife and my children.

Tom Edmisten

 

Comments

[shannon]

That's a wonderful tribute.

[Theresa]

Yes!!! Way to go, Tom! I was so glad to hear someone finally voice this concern when Colin Powell did during his endorsement of Obama. Religious freedom isn't just for conservative Christians in this country. Or is it?

[david]

Thanks for the post. It should be read and reread..Such a beautiful photograph, too.