Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut at Rambam Mesivta were times of reflection, growth, and ultimately joy, as the school moved from the somber tone of Yom HaZikaron to the heights of happiness on Yom HaAtzmaut.
Senior Gavriel Rubin and junior Avi Lax, both Friends of the IDF Fellows, transformed Rambam Mesivta into a tribute to those who fell to protect Medinat Yisrael. On every floor, on nearly every wall, they displayed posters from the FIDF with photos of fallen soldiers. One could not help but feel the significance of the day. Rabbi Zev Meir Friedman, Rosh HaYeshivah, spoke about the importance of Yom HaZikaron and introduced all the speakers. Rambam alumnus Gabi, as well as Director of Student Activities Reb Yitz Milworn, spoke about their experiences in the IDF and the pain of losing someone to combat. They did so while also emphasizing the importance of those sacrifices, leaving the students feeling moved and inspired. Avi Lax then read “final letters” from soldiers. These letters each began with something like, “If you are reading this, then something has gone wrong…” and were addressed to parents, wives, and children, giving an intimate window into the lives and dedication of those who were prepared to die to protect their people.
On Yom HaAtzmaut, the significance of the soldiers’ sacrifices was made clear as the school celebrated the birth of the Jewish state. Once again, Gavriel and Avi transformed the school, this time decking it out with Israeli flags everywhere. Classic blue and white cupcakes were, of course, distributed to the students, and another soldier, Samuel F., from the FIDF, came and spoke about his service in the IDF and his many combat missions. It was an uplifting speech that highlighted the Jewish tradition of military service from Bar Kochba to the present day.
After the speech, the Rambam Men were treated to their Annual Bowl-A-Thon Tournament at Woodmere Lanes. The seniors won the overall highest totals and were crowned the “Best Grade.” Junior Ephraim Twersky, with a score of 195, achieved the highest individual game.
The students concluded this period at school with a greater appreciation for the people and the land of Israel, and they left with a renewed commitment to doing their part through learning, t’filah, chesed, and in whatever way they can. Wherever they go, their hearts are in Israel.
