In order to appreciate where Israel is today, it is important to remember and acknowledge the people that have made Medinat Yisrael possible. As such, TABC commemorated Yom Hazikaron with the family and friends of Sgt. Maor Moshe Jan whose love and commitment to Israel ran deep. He considered it a privilege to serve in Tzahal, even in the most dangerous areas of Gaza, in order to protect the homeland that he loved. Maor was very involved in Bnei Akiva and running youth groups. During a 48-hour leave from the army, Maor was meeting with a group of youngsters and it was there that a suicide bomber approached and detonated himself. His parents, friends and yeshiva all continue to spread the love of chesed and Medinat Yisrael that embodied Maor. Maor was an avid photographer of nature and in his honor his mother has recreated his photographs by painting them on canvas.
The next day, TABC switched gears into celebration mode. The day started with a festive Hallel at tefilla followed by a discussion with Rabbi Larry Rothwachs on the importance of Israel advocacy and how it’s never too late to make aliyah. Then, with music blasting and Amsterdam Avenue closed, the boys and faculty had the opportunity to play spike ball, basketball, soccer and corn hole together and enjoy a festive delicious Israeli lunch of shawarma, schnitzel and falafel. Happy birthday, Israel!
