3 Lone Soldiers speak in Riverdale
The Lone Soldier Center launched its first-ever US Speaking Tour last weekend, bringing the powerful and personal stories of three IDF soldiers from the post-Oct. 7 frontlines to audiences across NYC area.
The delegation included two American-born soldiers and one Israeli-born former Charedi woman, each with extraordinary service experiences. They were joined by Liora Rubinstein, CEO of the Lone Soldier Center and a former senior IDF adviser on women’s affairs. They shared personal insights into their military experiences, resilience, and the importance of supporting Israel’s 7,000 Lone Soldiers who voluntarily serve without immediate family in the country.
On Shabbat, May 10, the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale heard from:
Dan — A master sergeant in the IDF reserves from New Jersey. He served in a special forces medical unit providing trauma care in Gaza. After a nine-month deployment, he is now focused on building an Israel veterans community while coping with extreme emotional and physical toll of war.
Lev — A first leutenant in the IDF reserves and Ramaz graduate. He served as a combat medic in the paratroopers and later led a logistical battalion in Gaza and Lebanon. He is currently studying biomedical engineering at the Technion–Israel Institute of Technology.
Hava — Originally from Jerusalem, Hava left her Charedi upbringing to enlist in the IDF. She served in the Ordnance Corps and later in the Paratroopers Brigade. Having completed over 300 days of active service since the war began, she is now studying at Reichman University and remains estranged from her family.
Liora Rubinstein — CEO of the Lone Soldier Center and former deputy advisor to the IDF Chief of Staff on Women’s affairs. Liora was instrumental in integrating women into the Israeli military for over two decades, and is now a leading voice for expanding support systems for Lone Soldiers.
The Lone Soldier Center, founded in memory of Michael Levin, provides housing, meals, guidance, mental health support and a sense of family to thousands of lone soldiers voluntarily serving in the IDF. Half of the lone soldiers come from 30 countries and the other half are from Israel.
This speaking tour aimed to deepen connections between UD communities and these brave individuals, while raising awareness and support for their ongoing needs.
To support Lone Soldiers, visit www.friendsofthelonesoldier.org.
