Atlanta FIDF Community Supports the Guardians of Israel

At a time when anti-Semitism is rampant and support for Israel and the IDF is too often challenged, Friends of the IDF (FIDF), an organization dedicated to the wellbeing of the soldiers of Israel, brought together members of the Atlanta-based community in a strong show of solidarity for Israel’s soldiers. The young men and women of the IDF have no choice but to find the courage to defend the Jewish homeland; FIDF is ensuring that they have an army of supporters behind them.

More than 300 local IDF supporters gathered last evening at the Westin Atlanta Perimeter North where they were taken on an interactive and experiential journey, honoring IDF soldiers’ tireless sacrifices and remarkable accomplishments. They were inspired by the soldiers of the IDF to cultivate their own inner courage and stand up for what’s right – even if it’s unpopular.

The lineup of speakers began with Daniel Harel, a former IDF soldier from the Intelligence Unit and mentalist who took the stage where he shared a bit about his service and reinforced the power of coming together – whether it be a platoon or a simply a group of likeminded people – for a common goal.

Next was Seth Baron, Vice President of the Eastern Region of FIDF, who shared the following: “FIDF is not one more cause supporting Israel, we ARE Israel, and without the IDF there is no Israel. We are grateful to our local supporters who recognize this stark reality and continue to share their unwavering love for IDF soldiers.”

Three soldiers joined the Atlanta community to share their personal stories of courage:

Lt. Hayley – A Lone Soldier from NJ who described her experience with anti-Semitism on her college campus, which prompted her to serve. She also spoke about her involvement in Operation Guardian of the Walls, during which she dodged a nearby missile that shattered her home. Additionally, Hayley detailed the abundant support she and other Lone Soldiers receive from FIDF throughout their service.

Lt. Opal – A Welfare Officer for the 405th Battalion in the Artillery Corps, Opal is the great granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, who escaped the Nazis on three different occasions, finally escaping them for good. Opal shared stories of her family’s incredible heroism as well as her own experience as a Welfare Officer. She spoke about the deeply meaningful nature of her service, which is made possible by support from the FIDF - specifically, the Dignity program.

Staff Sgt. T -- A combat paramedic in the elite Duvdevan counter-terrorism unit, Staff Sgt. T’s split-second decision under fire saved the lives of two of his unit’s soldiers. Staff Sgt. T described this terrifying mission and how the IDF training he underwent prepared him for this moment. He also spoke about the FIDF-funded facilities that enable him to excel when lives hang in the balance.

Other guests included Dr. Ramie Tritt, a local otolaryngologist and member of FIDF Southeast States board, who moved from Israel to Montreal at a young age, when his family experienced anti-Semitism; Board Chair of the Southeast, Karen Shulman; and Chairman Emeritus of the Southeast, Garry Sobel.

“IDF soldiers enable each one of us to live as prouder, more secure Jews no matter where we reside. Because of them, courage does NOT just live in Israel. It lives wherever we are, and we are all strengthened by their committed service,” said Karen Shulman.

“We each have the power to help secure Israel’s future by ensuring that every soldier rises and overcomes whatever challenges they face – before, during and after service,” said Steve Weil, FIDF CEO. “The soldiers of the IDF are responsible for the fate of Israel and the Jewish people, and we are here to stand with them.”