Veterans Day at Rambam

In Kabul, Afghanistan, he exhibited courage under fire. When he came to Rambam Mesivta in Lawrence, he was teary eyed. Maj. David Chartier, commanding officer of the combat outpost Bala Hissar in Afghanistan was the keynote speaker at Rambam’s Annual Veteran’s Day Assembly.

Since its inception in 1992, Rambam has paid tribute to American forces fighting abroad. In some cases the servicemen were those who liberated concentration camps; at other times, they were those who served in Korea and Vietnam, and now in Afghanistan.

“It is our responsibility to express our hakarat hatov (gratitude and deep appreciation) to the brave men and women who risk their lives in order to ensure our safety and ability to live freely as Torah Jews in the United States,” said Rosh Mesivta, Rabbi Zev Friedman.

As a concrete expression of appreciation, the students sent packages to those fighting overseas.

“These packages contain more than the necessities that the soldiers asked for, it contains the intangible and extremely important message that we back at home appreciate the sacrifices they are making and stand behind them,” said Rabbi Yotav Eliach, Rambam’s principal.

Chartier — whose unit in Afghanistan was the beneficiary of these items last year — shared his experiences and spoke about the challenges facing our soldiers. He also conducted a fascinating question-and-answer period with the entire school.

Students Porat Becker and Sam Cohen recited the Hebrew and English version of the prayer composed by the Orthodox Union for American soldiers.

Mr. Hillel Goldman, Rambam’s assistant principal, said, “The sincere appreciation and respect that the boys exhibited speaks volumes about their midos and sensitivity towards all people. It reflects the values that they learn at home which are also being reinforced here at Rambam.”

Rabbi Friedman presented the Major with a plaque expressing the appreciation of the Rambam community for all that he has done. Senior soloist Tani Martin sang a rousing National Anthem. At the conclusion of the assembly, Chartier presented Rambam Meisvta with an American flag and a special plaque.