|
Austin, Texas (April 18, 2023) – A local Lone Soldier was one of the guests of honor at a Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) parlor meeting held in Austin, Texas on March 28. Sgt. Jacob Avner from Round Rock addressed the crowd of 40+ FIDF supporters about what drove him to join the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and described some of his experiences in service. He also expressed his appreciation to FIDF for the support he has received throughout his service – most recently, a ticket to fly home and surprise his family for Passover.
Camille and Sandy Kress and Rob Gritz chaired the informational event which was held at 70 Rainey Street.
Sgt. Avner is one of thousands of Lone Soldiers from across the globe who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the State of Israel. Currently serving in the Erez Crossing on the Gaza border, he gave attendees a glimpse into his life during service, explained the reasons behind his brave and noble decision to enlist, and shared what experience as a Lone Soldier has been like.
FIDF’s goal is to ensure that soldiers like Sgt. Avner are cared for during their service and are poised for a successful life after service. “Each of our programs and initiatives are geared towards meeting the needs of IDF soldiers – physical, emotional, and financial – so that they may fully focus on their critical mission and meaningfully contribute to Israeli society upon completion of their service,” said Steve Weil, CEO of FIDF. “FIDF ensures that every soldier is shown how much their contribution is appreciated.”
National General (Res.) Nadav Padan discussed why, after 30 years of service in the IDF, he chose to join FIDF as National Director, and focus on helping soldiers in need.
Bernie Groveman, FIDF National Board Member, expressed the importance of supporting FIDF: "The existence of a Jewish homeland depends on the IDF and the most important thing that we can do as Jews is stand behind the courageous young men and women who risk their lives each day for Israel's survival. Whether it is food vouchers for soldiers from challenged socioeconomic backgrounds through our Dignity program, an IMPACT!! scholarship for free college tuition or vocational training through our Professional Training program, FIDF is helping Israel's soldiers in numerous ways that enhance Israel's strength and vibrancy. I am inspired by both the efforts of the brave soldiers of the IDF and the generosity of the FIDF's many donors in Texas and across America. We are working together to sustain and nurture the Third Jewish Commonwealth."
See photos from the event below. (Please click on the photos and choose "download" from the three dots on the top right to download.). Photo Credit: Courtesy of FIDF.
| 
