Israel’s Memorial Day for Israel’s Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism is one of the most significant and revered days of the Israeli calendar year. It is a time when young and old pay tribute to family, friends, community members and historical heroes who gave their lives protecting the State of Israel.

Hundreds of lone soldiers, immigrants and volunteers from abroad have given their lives as well for the independence and continuous survival of the State of Israel. These brave young men and women fell far away from their family and birthplaces, often leaving very few people, if any, to visit their graves or commemorate their lives on this solemn day.

On the eve of April 30th, 2017, the Lone Soldier Center in memory of Michael Levin will bring together hundreds of people for a special Yom HaZikaron ceremony: one that honors and remembers our fallen lone soldiers. This ceremony is the only Yom HaZikaron ceremony in Israel to be conducted in English that is open to the public and will be available by live-stream to communities around the world. Our aim is to strengthen the connection of English speaking immigrants, tourists and students in Israel and abroad to Israel’s Memorial Day and the stories of Israel’s heroes.

Elisa Levin, sister of Michael Levin, z”l, will be speaking at this years’ ceremony to share her brother’s love for Israel that inspired so many young men and women to follow in his footsteps and serve in the IDF. “I believe Michael’s story helps people find a deeper connection to Israel” Elisa said. “Losing Michael is a constant reminder to me that our time here is limited, and to make the most of it. You should pursue you dreams no matter what obstacles get in the way.”

Yocheved Rindenow lost her brother Shlomo z”l last summer in a military accident along the northern border. She will be sharing the story of her younger brother’s journey from Passaic, New Jersey to Israel and service in the IDF.

The speakers will be followed by musical performances by YM (Yitzchok Meir, a Jerusalem based musician and close friend of Michael Levin, z”l), and Mike Perry – a lone soldier from England who served in the First Lebanon War.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)