On Wednesday, April 30 – Yom HaZikaron – students and faculty gathered in the auditorium for a solemn and meaningful tekes to honor Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror, those who gave their lives in defense of our Homeland. The day’s events centered on the theme of sacrifice and remembrance.
The ceremony was organized by Morah Pnina Aronowitz, Chair of the Hebrew Language Department, along with a committee of dedicated student volunteers. Together, they crafted a powerful program that left a lasting impact on all attendees.
Menahel Rabbi Eli Slomnicki opened the tekes with words of reflection, setting the tone for the day. Students then recited heartfelt t’filos and poems in both Hebrew and English, underscoring the emotion of the moment.
This year’s multimedia presentation focused on the life of Captain Daniel Perez Hy”d, who was taken hostage and murdered on October 7. His story was especially poignant, having heard from his father, Rabbi Doron Perez, just days earlier, on Yom HaShoah.
Junior Yarden Weiss offered a personal tribute, speaking about family friend Captain Rabbi Avi Goldberg hy”D, a father of eight who was remembered as someone who was always b’simchah, even during hard times.
As students entered the auditorium, each received a card bearing the name, photo, and biography of a fallen soldier from the FIDF’s Hall of Courage, along with a yellow ribbon to wear throughout the day. Students also had the opportunity to write condolence letters to bereaved families – an initiative led by juniors T.J. Serber and Yarden Weiss, in partnership with Friends of the IDF.
The program was further elevated by senior Eli Avizov, accompanied by Benny Quere on piano, who performed moving songs that captured the spirit of the day.
In accordance with Israeli tradition, a memorial candle was lit, and a siren sounded, inviting all to stand in silent reflection. The tekes concluded with the recitation of Keil Malei Rachamim by Rabbi Slomnicki, followed by the singing of HaTikvah, reaffirming our deep connection to Medinat Yisrael, especially on this sacred day.
We extend heartfelt thanks to Morah Aronowitz and the student committee for organizing such a meaningful and respectful tribute.
