Comments from the Yom Haatzmaut Volunteers

”  We got to work right away cooking and preparing for lunch. As 12:00 noon got closer we were in full speed and ready for the hungry soldiers to come and eat. Instead of attacking our fresh BBQ food, what did they do? That’s right, The guys broke out into a circle and started singing and dancing for about a half hour! They grabbed some food, then started dancing with our kids on their soldiers with tremendous smiles. They more SO appreciative that we were there spending our day off with them instead of with friends at the beach. It was one of the most moving experiences of my life. There is no doubt that we made their day, week and something they will remember for a long time. So, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!”

“A group of us headed to the base on the border with Gaza.  Many had already participated in the program last year but for my family and me, it was our first time.  The soldiers were happy to see us and it was nice chatting with them.  They are protecting the country while it parties so it was a good feeling to give something back.  Especially for those of us olim who didn’t serve in the army, it’s a small token of our appreciation to those lifting the burden.  The soldiers ate heartily and shmoozed.  They were very excited that we brought kids and, after the meal, they took them for a tour of the base, including a peek at some jeeps and tanks.  The kids loved it.  Thank you Standing Together for organizing this event and giving us the opportunity to do a little something for those who do so much for us.”

“…had an amazing time we prepared a BBQ with whoever was there and continued to cook as others rotated back to the base.

the soldiers were very appreciative, one soldiers family came to visit him and his mother commented on how remarkable it was that we came to share Yom Haazmaut with them.

Please mark us down as a YES again for next year.”

“We had a great time at the base today in the Golan.”