The black sky formed a domed canopy above the assembly that gathered in the big square next to the community center in Katzrin. It was a night of remembrance. On the stage stood a flag pole and three soldiers. The Israeli flag fluttered in the mild breeze at half-mast. As residents of the community filed in through several guarded entrances, they were visually checked for weapons and where weapons were found, those who held them were sent to an entrance where licenses must be submitted to the authorities. At this time in Israel, there is danger involved in taking chances in groups of this size. Imagine what could happen, if?… But all ifs dissolved last night, with the armed security and soldiers standing guard. 

Five hundred plus white plastic chairs awaited the expected crowd. Eager, yet serious, the attendees arrived, and soon row after row of family and friends shuffled into the makeshift auditorium under the stars. Many were Jews from different countries of the world, and perhaps even more were native-born Israelis.

Instructions had been given via every local media outlet that there would be a one-minute siren at exactly 8 pm, honoring the fallen soldiers of the past 7 months and especially those from Katzrin who gave their lives fighting Israel. The audience would stand at attention while the siren lasted. Further instructions were given to prepare the group for the eventuality of a bombing raid during the program. If this was to happen, all were to lay on the ground face down with their hands over their heads. Those who were disabled were to bow as low as possible in their seats and cover their heads in the same way. 

As the siren receded, the audience remained standing as Introductory words and dedications were made, including a memorial Kadesh blessing for Hashem honoring those who died. The three soldiers still stood at stiff attention beside the flagpole on the stage that was illuminated by spotlights of different colors. Not a hand movement nor nod of the head was seen. They stood this way for over an hour, erect and solemn in their military attire. 

During this time, family members, friends, officials of the town d others brought colorful memorial wreaths and placed them by the flagpole in front of the three soldiers. The names of the fallen soldiers were read and pictures of their lives illuminated the giant screens on either side of the stage. Sadly, the first soldier was killed on October 7, the day the war began.  The second soldier died a few days later that week. The third was much later. 

The service had touching eulogies by the family members, two mothers and a father, honoring the boys. Then a talented soldier sang vocal pieces and accompanied himself on a large keyboard. 

Some of us did not know Hebrew well enough to follow the service literally, but the soul of the Israeli people was apparent and the meaning of it all sank deep into our hearts. We know that Israel is about being One People on the land, no matter what happens. 

The thought has been voiced by many, that at this time when the majority of the world wants to destroy our people, when many so-called Jews, even in government positions in the diaspora are happy to give away our land in exchange for making a name for themselves, we must take the position that we are alone–that we stand for the people of Israel and for this God-given land, whatever comes. 

And as always in the past, a remnant will survive and flourish. This must toughen us, come what may. There is no going back. We must strengthen our resolve to stand and not to fall prey to the lies that continue to fall from the mouths of those who hate us, even though many of them are Jews seeking temporal fame and a moment in the limelight. 

Like one seasoned veteran soldier said today concerning Jews that betray the Jewish people. “They are traitors, … and what do you do with traitors…?”

Let him who thinks he is standing take heed lest he fall…

Ariella