Yom HaZikaron Assembly: Honouring Heroes, Embracing Legacy

This week, our school community gathered for a moving Yom HaZikaron assembly, reflecting on Israel’s Memorial Day—a day that honours the 25,417 soldiers and security personnel, along with 5,229 civilians from all communities and denominations, who have given their lives defending Israel and protecting its people. 
 
Unlike other memorial days, Yom HaZikaron is deeply personal. It’s not about generals or grand victories, but about young men and women — people barely older than our students — who stood up when called upon. They chose courage, not for glory, but to safeguard their families, communities, and the freedom to live as Jews in safety. A highlight of the assembly was the personal story shared about Binyamin Meir Airley, a young man who embodied quiet heroism. Binyamin, who loved hiking, sketching, and studying Torah, served in the elite 101st Paratroopers unit of the IDF. In November 2023, at just 21 years old, he was tragically killed while saving his comrades during an operation in Gaza. His life, marked by humility, kindness, and dedication, continues to inspire.
 
The assembly concluded with a powerful minute of silence, standing in solidarity with Israel. As cars stop and people stand still across Israel during Yom HaZikaron, so did our students, taking time to remember and reflect. We encourage everyone in our school to honour these sacrifices not only in remembrance but through daily acts of kindness, standing up for others, and contributing positively to our world.

A student with an Israeli background was invited to light a memorial candle for the school.

May the memories of all who have fallen continue to inspire us to live with purpose and compassion.