Posted on 12/11/23
Chanukah is a popular time for family celebrations. Often a bit too loud with noisy children running around or sitting on the floor playing dreidel. Latkes frying to be served with applesauce or sour cream according to family tradition.
Today, there are over 7,000 lone soldiers in Israel. A lone soldier who immigrated to Israel alone, but also, one in Israel who is an orphan, or without parents in Israel providing support. Plus, the Lone Bat Sherut volunteers, serve in Israel’s National Service. They might be estranged from their parents, live outside of Israel, or have passed away.
Chanukah can be a lonely time for those without family in Israel, even more so during the war as IDF soldiers continue fighting in Gaza.
After the overwhelming success of the Thanksgiving dinner held at the StandWithUs campus, The Michael Levin Base decided to host a Chanukah dinner and party at the same Jerusalem, Israel location off of King David Street near the King David Hotel.
The evening had as special guest Colonel Richard Kemp, a retired British Army officer who served from 1977 to 2006, including in Afghanistan. Kemp criticized the findings of the 2014 UN Commission of Inquiry Report on Gaza, calling it "flawed and dangerous." Repeatedly he has spoken about the Israel Defense Forces, emphasizing the caution the IDF uses to avoid civilian casualties often putting their own lives in danger.
The Chanukah meal ended with boxes of sufganiyot, donuts simple or sprinkled. Back again on stage, the Solomon Brothers provided live musical entertainment. Chanukah menorahs and candles were available at the door for anyone who needed them to take when they left.
The Base co-directors Lizzie Noach and Bonnie Holzberg Rosenbaum along with a staff of volunteers provided an enjoyable Chanukah fun evening for all who came. Support and a homey atmosphere for those serving alone, to come together and celebrate the Holiday of Lights on the first night of Chanukah.
