SAVANNAH, Ga. - The 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade command team of Col. Jeffrey Becker and Command Sgt. Maj. George M. Dove showed their support at the 120th anniversary of the establishment of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States at the Jewish Educational Alliance in Savannah March 15.
The event was designed to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the founding of the Jewish War Veterans while honoring local Jewish veterans.
Many Jewish War Veterans were present, including World War II veteran and Savannah native Abram Applebaum who served on the U.S.S. Intrepid, an Essex-class aircraft carrier and sister ship to the U.S.S. Saratoga. When asked how he felt about being present for the event he replied with a smile.
"It feels great just to be alive," Applebaum said. "I'm looking forward to seeing my comrades who are still around."
Before the dinner, a toast went out to the veterans who sacrificed their lives for their country.
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them. Mazel Tov."
After the dinner, Becker was the keynote speaker. He spoke about the roles that Jewish Soldiers have played in our nation's history. Also, a great many who have received the Medal of Honor.
First Sgt. Benjamin Kaufman was one such young man. Kaufman joined the Army in 1917 and soon found himself fighting in the forests of France.
"In the Argonne Forest, under heavy enemy fire, 1st Sgt. Kaufman and his men advanced to the German firing position. During the advance, a bullet shattered his right arm, but that did not prevent Kaufman from advancing on the enemy. With his left arm, Kaufman threw grenades at the enemy, finally reaching the machine gun and capturing a German Soldier," Becker said.
First Sergeant Kaufman was awarded the Medal of Honor and the Croix de Guerre for heroism. He later went on to serve as the executive director of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States for almost 15 years.
Becker also said it is important in reflecting on Jewish American heritage that we take pride in their culture and history.
"Our Army represents the greatest democratic ideal of inclusion, and today we honor the cultural differences that strengthen our armed forces," Becker said. "We celebrate the common goals and love for the United States of America that bind us together as the world's best fighting force."
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