Honor & Heartache: A Gold Star Mother's journey remembering the life & legacy of her son, LCpl. Kareem Nikoui

On this episode of the podcast, Amanda Head hosts a conversation with Shana Chappell, the Gold Star Mother of Marine Lance Corporal Kareem Nikoui, who died in the 2021 bombing at Abbey Gate. Chappell shared details about her son's life and his dream to serve his country. Nikoui, a four-time world and national MMA champion, joined the Marines as soon as he graduated from high school and never looked back.

Chappell goes on to rightfully criticize President Joe Biden for his lack of empathy and respect during their meeting at Dover Air Force Base. She contrasted Biden's actions with former President Donald Trump's visit to Arlington National Cemetery today, highlighting Trump’s continuous love and support for our nation’s Gold Star families. Chappell joins millions of Americans and military families as she believes that President Trump's return to the White House would be better for the military and for our country.

You can keep up with Shana by following her on Instagram: @SoCalAngel13 or on X (formerly Twitter): @13SoCaLangeL13. 

Today we honor the 13 following heroes for their service and ultimate sacrifice:

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page, Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, Navy Petty Officer Third Class Maxton W. Soviak, and Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss