From the Presidents – November 8, 2024

Hello Everyone!

This weekend we will be celebrating Veterans Day. Despite being a small part of the population, Jewish citizens of the United States have consistently played a key role in the nation’s military.  Benjamin Levy, Benjamin Kaufman, Isadore Jachman and John Letvitow have all won the Medal of Honor. Uriah P. Levy became the first Jewish naval commander in the United States navy while serving with distinction in the War of 1812. Colonel Aaron Bank founded the elite force the Green Berets. Major General Maurice Rose, who commanded the 3rd Armored Division in World War II, was one of the highest ranked Jewish officers in the army. Today, thousands of Jewish servicemen continue to serve in the armed forces. At the same time, in our reflections on their service, we also need to remember the challenges veterans potentially still face in their daily lives, including homelessness, PTSD, and other issues. Some are also haunted by what they witnessed on battlefields around the world, including unspeakable atrocities. So while holidays like Veterans Day are times for celebration, they are also times for reflection. This weekend, let us be grateful for all that veterans have done for us all. 

  As a reminder, our next Shabbat Evening Service, hosted by Rabbi Dean and Cantor Marney will take place this Friday, November 15, at 7:30 PM. Torah Study on Zoom takes place every Saturday at 10:15 AM. TBH’s Movie Night, featuring The Princess Bride is this Saturday, November 9th at 4 PM.

 

Thank you everyone! 

 

If I am not for myself, who will be for me?

If I am not for others, what am I?

And if not now, when? -Rabbi Hillel

~ Anna and David, Co-Presidents, Temple Beth Hillel