Yom HaZikaron: Canberra
The Embassy of the State of Israel and the ACT Jewish Community, in conjunction with the ACT Zionist Council have hosted the national Yom HaZikaron ceremony, on behalf of the State of Israel, as well as all of Australian Jewry.
Dorit Herscovici the Spokesperson of the Embassy of the State of Israel conducted the ceremony which included choral pieces by AJ America, a moving address by the Ambassador, His Excellency Shmuel Ben Shmuel, and an address by the ACT Jewish Community President, and Executive Council of Australian Jewry Vice President, Ms Yael Cass.
His Excellency addressed the contributions made by members of the IDF and emergency services to protecting the Israeli citizens. He explained the moving nature of the day, and how every person in Israel is affected by the day.
Ms Cass shared the importance of standing with the people of Israel to honour the fallen is a sacred mission for all of us, as Australian Jews. She pointed out he close proximity of Pesach, Yom Hashoah, Yom Haatzmaut and Yom HaZikaron, stating that the Jewish calendar typifies how we recognise joy in times of sadness and sadness in times of joy.
The service was attended Israelis and Australians alike. Rabbi Meltzer stated in reflection of the ceremony, that to have the opportunity to remember those who have served and protected us, who have ensured our freedoms, and our ability to call Israel home, is a very important task. Sometimes we forget that thousands of kilometres away there is a small country that has our backs, facing strife and turmoil day after day, and being protected by our brothers and sisters.
As Ms Cass concluded, it is hoped that all will find peace on this day of remembrance.
