Save A Israeli Soldier's Life Campaign

Last summer, a group of us from HTAA travelled to Israel. There, we visited the Western Wall, toured the country, and witnessed how this tiny Jewish state makes incredible use of the land it possesses. Indeed its people are the most valuable resource that bless Israel. My favorite part of the trip was the Shabbat we spent together in Jerusalem. We had invited lone soldiers, young people serving in the IDF who have no immediate family in Israel, to dine with us. 

One of those soldiers invited us to visit his base and meet his unit, a religious counter-terror battalion. We visited with 18 year-old soldiers and 20 year-old officers - aspiring doctors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and politicians. They are not hardened warriors, they are like any high school senior, with big dreams and optimism about the future.

Consider what teens in the US are thinking regarding their next few years. With what are your children and grandchildren concerned? Perhaps to which universities to apply, what they should study, etc. Meanwhile, their Israeli counterparts weigh what type of required national service they will undergo. Many of these youth find themselves in frontline positions or subject to grave harm before their 18th birthdays. Kids, who have no intentions of being career soldiers serve their country and protect Jews everywhere because we believe kol yisrael areivim zel lazeh - all Jews are responsible for one anther. B’chol dor vador - In every generation people seek to destroy us. We are grateful for those who put themselves in harms way for the sake of our people.

At the base, located near Jerusalem, we were surprised to learn that in spite of being renowned as a state of art military, the IDF has insufficient funds to outfit every combat soldier with the personal protective gear they need to make them as safe as possible. The equipment they have, mostly provided by the US military, is dated and most items are Vietnam-era. The 40+ year-old protective vests and helmets are insufficient to stop modern weapons. Since supplies, even of the older equipment, are limited, soldiers are forced to share life saving gear, often rotating who gets to wear the vest or helmet on a particular mission.

WHAT CAN I DO?

There is something we can do! Like me, I’m sure you are concerned about the risks the youngsters take while fulfilling their duty. You are also likely wondering how you can best support them during these challenging times. There are two ways that we at HTAA can demonstrate our support and make a difference though our efforts. 

1) HTAA has since established a relationship with the commanders of the same unit and discovered that a modest effort on our part will make a large positive impact on the safety of the troops defending the Jewish homeland. Please see the attached information about how to help us supply them with modern protective gear. Your efforts will directly translate to increased safety for the brave youngsters. Because of the process that we have implemented, every dollar of the proceeds will be used to outfit the soldiers with enhanced protection. While you may certainly subsidize a specific item, a contribution of any amount will be appreciated and go toward our goal.

2) Join our mission to Israel in May, 2016 as we hand-deliver the equipment to the base. As important as the equipment we bring, our physical presence in meeting those who defend Israel demonstrates our commitment to them. See the enclosed flyer and let me know that you are interested in coming along. The best way to stand with Israel is to stand in Israel.

In Judaism, a mitzvah has two parts: intention and action. For example, one can think about the plight of those who are hungry in our community, but until we have fed them, we have not completed our duty. In Jewish tradition, this concept is called kavanah - intent to act is only half the battle. Action coupled with intention is more meaningful and effective.

Please consider contributing to our campaign and joining our Israel Mission as we do our part to ensure the safety of those committed to Israel’s security and prosperity.

Blessings,

Rabbi Steven Suson