Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center (FSWC) joins the peopleof Israel and Jewish communities worldwide in observing Yom Hazikaron (MemorialDay). This annual commemoration honours the memory of fallen Israeli soldiersand civilian victims of terrorism.

Yom Hazikaron will formally begin at sundown thisevening, as Israel comes to a standstill with the sounding of a one-minutesiren. A second, two-minute siren will be sounded Wednesday morning. Flagsacross the country will be lowered at half-mast in a show of solemnity andrespect.

“On this somber day, we memorialize those who paid theultimate sacrifice to defend Israel and safeguard its people,” said FSWCPresident and CEO Avi Benlolo. “This year’s commemoration is especially poignantas we mark 70 years of Israeli independence — a milestone inherently tied tothe bravery, heroism and sacrifice of the country’s fallen.  May their memories be a blessing.”

An FSWC delegation is in Israel this week tocommemorate Yom Hazikaron, celebrate Yom Haatzmaut and participate in nationalobservances.