More than 100 people gathered to commemorate significant anniversaries of Jewish Service to the Crown, leading up to Armed Forces Day on Saturday.
For many years, AJEX JMA has been a supporter of National Armed Forces Week, hosting an annual commemoration Service at the NMA in Staffordshire to recognise the remarkable contributions the Jewish community has made to HM Armed Forces.
The event paid tribute to several significant milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the Dambusters Raid and of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, as well as the 70th anniversary of the end of fighting in the Korean War. It also honoured and Remembered all Jewish individuals who have served and continue to serve in HM Armed Forces.
Under the beautiful sunshine, AJEX Standards were prominent at the special AJEX memorial. The ceremony was led by Dan Fox, National Chair of AJEX, along with Rabbi Major Reuben Livingstone.
Expressing his thoughts, Dan Fox said, "Honouring Service in the Armed Forces cuts across the generations. Today we brought together WW2 veterans, those who have served in recent conflicts, current members of the military, cadets, and family members. The Jewish military community is thriving and as a community, we should rightly feel proud and acknowledge this. There is no better place to do so than the unique AJEX memorial at the NMA”.
AJEX was delighted to have over 40 Cadets from the JFS Combined Cadet Force participate in ceremonial duties, lining the avenue with great professionalism, even in the scorching heat of the day. The Cadets had the opportunity to hear from the Veterans and senior service personnel as well as visit some of the other memorials at the NMA, further enhancing their experience. Their presence was hugely appreciated and shows the baton of Remembrance being passed on.
During the ceremony, wreaths were laid by Major Danny Yank, Lt Col Charles Foinette, Alan Levy from CST, Paul Hyams, Lionel Singer and two students from the JFS Combined Cadet Force. The Exhortation was read by Ivan Sugarman and the Kohima Epitaph by Ron Shelley MBE.
Fiona Palmer, Chief Executive AJEX JMA added: “Wow what a day! Thank you to everyone who joined us. The words spoken by Dan Fox, our National Chair, along with the prayers, the poems and the wreaths were so moving and gave immense honour to those who have served in HM Forces and those who continue to Serve today.”
The Ceremony ended with a heartwarming L'chaim, where a toast was raised to all those who have served and continue to serve in HM Armed Forces. Following the conclusion of the Service, attendees had the opportunity to tour memorials conducted by AJEX members and staff.
AJEX now look ahead to holding their November Parade on 19th November 2023. and Medals campaign. To find out more visit: www.ajex.org.uk
