TRENTON, N.J. – In honor of the 128th anniversary of the founding of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America organization, Assemblyman Alex Sauickie introduced a resolution designating March 15 as Jewish War Veterans Day in New Jersey.
“Jewish American soldiers have battled much more than just foreign enemies and national adversaries. They have combated antisemitism and injustices and fought for recognition and fundamental rights. As the nation and this state once again experience rising anti-Semitic rhetoric and crimes, it is a moral imperative that we honor the men and women of Jewish faith who have not only faced adversity, but so bravely served this country and protected American values and freedom,” Sauickie (R-Ocean) said.
In response to anti-Semitic remarks about Jews not serving in the American military, a group of Jewish Civil War veterans gathered in New York City on March 15, 1896, for the first meeting of the Hebrew Union Veterans Association, which is now the Jewish War Veterans of America. They serve as a Jewish voice for veterans, and educate and advocate on issues important to the Jewish veteran community from funding for veterans homes to kosher food for troops.
“The Department of New Jersey, JWV, USA has always been at the forefront of caring for veterans and advocating against antisemitism. The members of this great organization deserve credit and recognition for what they do, and I’m proud to be associated with them. I’m thankful that Assemblyman Sauickie has chosen to recognize them by proposing a Jewish War Veterans Day in New Jersey,” said Chuck Greenberg, commander of the New Jersey department of the national Jewish War Veterans organization.
The joint resolution (AJR163) calls for public officials, organizations and citizens to recognize Jewish war veterans with appropriate events and activities on March 15 each year.
“May March 15 forever be a day to recognize our Jewish veterans and their tremendous work to better the lives of all veterans and servicemembers while continuing to promote patriotism and denounce hate in all its forms,” Sauickie said.