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Noted Arab-Americans: The Military, Politics & Social Activism

© Aida Hasan

When President John F. Kennedy first said the words, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country," he probably had no idea how often his words would be repeated thereafter. Those words were, and remain, brilliant, simple, and yet profoundly patriotic. One day while reading the writings of Arab American poet Khalil Gibran, I was pleasantly surprised to find those same words written decades before President Kennedy had said them. I had never heard Gibrans name linked with Kennedy's words, and yet there they were almost word for word. Whether Kennedy himself was aware of Gibrans writings is uncertain. Perhaps it was merely coincidence. Perhaps Kennedy , or his speech writer, was an admirer of Gibrans work. What is certain, however, is the important contribution Americans of Arab descent, like Gibran, have made to American society. Numerous Arab Americans have been noted for their successes in everything from the military and politics to business, law and science, as well as making a presence in sports, fashion and the entertainment industry.

Some Military Accomplishments

Probably few people know that the United States, and the worlds, first jet ace was an Arab American. U.S. Col. James Jabara earned his jet ace status while serving in the Korean War. Before the age of twenty, Jabara had already flown in over 100 European missions. By the time he served in the Korean war, he had already established himself as a courageous and skilled jet pilot, downing four MiG's in a matter of weeks, but still one number short of becoming an official "jet ace". Thus, when there was a request for a jet pilot with "the characteristics of a jet ace" for an upcoming mission, Jabara's commanding officer chose him. With that mission, Jabara was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation's second highest decoration, and was officially recognized as America's first jet ace. (for more information on Jabara, see James Jabara: Hero ). However, Jabara was not the only Arab American noted for his historical military accomplishments. Fighting alongside General Patton in World War II was Arab American, Maj. Gen. Fred Safy, and serving on General Eisenhower's staff was Brig. Gen. Elias Stevens. One of the U.S. Navy ships, the destroyer escort USS Naifeh, was named in 1944 in honor of Arab American hero Navy Lt. Alfred Naifeh of Oklahoma.

Politics and Activism

In the modern political arena, there are a number of Arab Americans. A total of 14 Arab Americans have served, or are currently serving as Congressman and Senators. Among those who are currently serving are: Senator Spencer Abraham of Michigan, and Congressmans Nick Joe Rahall II of West Virginia, Pat Danner of Missouri, Ray LaHood of Illinois, John Baldacci of Maine, John E. Sununu of New Hampshire, and Chris John of Louisiana. Among those who have served are: former U.S. Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell of Maine, former U.S. Senators James Abourezk and James Abdnor of South Dakota, and former Congressional members Toby Moffett of Connecticut, Abraham Kazen, Jr. of Texas, George Kasem of California, and Mary Rose Oakar of Ohio. Victor Atiyeh is the former Governor of Oregon.

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