This is a summary of the original talk delivered by CJ Werleman titled “Why are US Soldiers Converting to Islam?“ that may be found here
CJ Werleman, highlights the historical context behind the rise of military warfare and the great military leaders who have played a significant role in shaping the history of warfare. He also talks about the rise of Islamophobia and its root cause of unfamiliarity. He notes that many American soldiers who have been deployed to Muslim-majority countries have converted to Islam after experiencing the reality of the Muslim world and discovering that the media’s depiction of Islam was not accurate.
He mentions Khalid ibn al-Walid, a 7th-century warrior who led the Arab Muslim Army to victory in over 50 battles and is considered one of the three greatest military leaders of all time. He notes that Khalid once fought against the Muslims but later converted to Islam and played a crucial role in unifying Arabia for the first time. He also mentions Terry Holdbrooks, a former US soldier who converted to Islam after serving at Guantanamo Bay and witnessing the inhumane treatment of innocent Muslims.
CJ also highlights the fact that the “War on Terror” and the media’s portrayal of Islam have led to the spread of Islamophobia among Americans. He notes that being exposed to the Muslim world and the people who live peacefully in accordance with their religious faith is the quickest way to challenge the misconceptions and lies spread about Islam. He mentions several American soldiers who have converted to Islam after serving in Muslim-majority countries and realizing the peace-loving nature of the people they were sent to kill.
He emphasizes that the conversion of American soldiers to Islam while fighting in Muslim-majority countries is a paradox and counts as the best advertisement for the religion of peace. He also talks about Richard McKinney, a former US Marine, who was so radicalized by anti-Muslim hate that he planned to bomb an Islamic center. However, a moment he shared with his young daughter made him rethink his plan, and he instead converted to Islam after experiencing the peace and love that the religion promotes.
In conclusion, CJ highlights the importance of educating people about the reality of the Muslim world and the need to challenge the misconceptions spread by the media. He notes that the conversion stories of American soldiers to Islam while serving in Muslim-majority countries should be considered as the best advertisement for the religion of peace.
The views expressed herein may not necessarily reflect the views of JI FAD and/or any of its affiliates
