We’ve honored Israel, now we honor America

On Memorial Day, next Monday, America will honor the men and women who gave their lives fighting in our country’s wars. Citizens observe the day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades that incorporate military personnel and members of veteran organizations.

Jews played important roles in American wars, some making the ultimate sacrifice. We should be aware and proud that Jews fought and died for their country. Just as we as Jews acknowledge Israel’s Memorial Day and participate in Salute to Israel parades, we should attend Memorial Day commemorations in our own towns.

I am honored to be a featured guest in this year’s 103rd Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department Community Memorial Day Parade. Members of these and neighboring communities will gather this Sunday, May 29, at 10 am for a parade that will march through the center of the business districts and conclude with a meaningful ceremony in Cedarhurst’s Andrew J. Parise Park.

Former Cedarhurst Mayor Parise, of blessed memory, was a World War II veteran who helped liberate the Buchenwald concentration camp. His eyewitness experience impacted the way he ran the Village of Cedarhurst, respecting the Jewish culture of his residents and their freedom to practice religion.

“Hakaras hatov, gratitude, is a component of the Jewish tradition and Torah values,” explained one of the parade coordinators, Penina (Paris) Popack, a Village of Lawrence trustee, “We encourage residents of all faiths to attend this year’s parade to demonstrate appreciation.”

“There’s nothing like a good community parade,” Popack continued. “They are the culmination of detailed planning, hard work and creativity. Parades offer people, policy makers, and groups the opportunity to express old-fashioned patriotism.”

“This Memorial Day parade will be meaningful, inspiring and entertaining for all ages, from young to old,” added Henya Storch, Popack’s event assistant. “While the nature of the day is serious, and the parade will be one of respect, it will also have a variety of family-friendly and eye-catching entrants. It is going to be fabulous.”

“Lining the streets in support of our veterans for an hour of your Sunday morning, shows incredible and appreciated thanks,” said veteran Syd Mandelbaum, a child of Holocaust survivors and commander of the American Legion Post #339. “We would love this to be a priority for all generations.”

Deputy Fire Chief Meyer Adler, parade co-chairman, adds, “Please come out and support our march. We can’t take our American freedoms for granted and must never forget the ultimate sacrifices that our armed services have made so we can live in peace.”

“Participating in our parade is an ideal educational opportunity to teach your children and grandchildren about the true meaning of Memorial Day, to appreciate our American freedoms and acknowledge our fallen soldiers,” said Village of Cedarhurst Mayor and Parade Co-chairman Benjamin Weinstock.

Village of Lawrence Mayor Alex Edelman states, “We must never forget those who gave everything for us to enjoy the liberties we have. Please come cheer for the veterans, the fire department and all marchers.”

“We are proud of our parade and inspiring memorial ceremony in the park. We hope that everyone’s parades and services across the nation will be incredible and well attended.” says JoMarie Capone, Village of Cedarhurst parade coordinator.

Parades promote a warm hometown feeling and bring a strong sense of community and caring. If a parade is already scheduled in your neighborhood, join in with a float, a band or even volunteering to hand out flags and cold drinks.

With your help, attending a Memorial Day parade will raise visibility, express patriotic gratitude for all we have, and make a difference.

May our country and the world thrive in peace.