Memorial Day Focus on Life

Today is Memorial Day in Israel, a day in which the country remembers all those who have fallen during military service since 1860 and all those who have been killed in anti-Israel terror attacks since 1851.

The country goes to great lengths to read out the names of all the people who have died in these ways, showing the value that Jewish people place upon life and remembrance. That can also be seen through the many activities they undertake to preserve the memories of the way these people lived.

According to the National Insurance Institute, 4,255 people have been killed in anti-Israel terror attacks since 1851, including 31 who died over the past year. Of the total number of victims, 740 were minors, 120 were Israelis killed abroad, and 135 were foreign nationals killed in terror attacks directed against Israelis.

This year Rabbi Leo Dee has agreed to deliver the ‘yizkor’ prayer during the part of the commemorations devoted to victims of terrorist attacks. The ‘yizkor’ prayer is one of remembrance and traditionally marks the end of Memorial Day and the transition to the celebration of Independence Day.

Here Rabbi Dee is interviewed by i24 News about his family’s situation and his special role in the memorial ceremony today.