Peace and Appreciation on Veterans Day
by Yoni Binus
On November 11, 1918, the conflict known then as The Great War, and now known as World War I, came to a halt. Months later, an official peace treaty was signed, but we have since recognized November 11th as the day that peace was restored and it is a date which would first be known as Armistice Day and eventually, after World War II, Veterans Day. Why is the history of this day important? Because it is a day designed for us to recognize our veterans' sacrifice to ensure the peace that we and our our children benefit from every day.
So, let me start with a thank you to veterans for their service and for what they have done for our country and across the globe.
My father spent his entire career dedicated to helping veterans, as a psychiatrist and administrator at the VA hospital in Bedford, Massachusetts. You might imagine how much changed over the course of his years there (mid 1970's to 2010's), from wars that were fought to the changing landscape of neuroscience, pharmaceutical proliferation, and overall holistic medical advancement. One thing that did not change, however, was the constant battle to ensure there were enough beds, enough doctors, and enough funding for the veterans his hospital served.
What connection does any of this have to Heilicher? As an educational institution, it is critical that we ensure our students—the future of this community and this country—understand the history of veteran appreciation and the significance of honoring and appreciating the work of our armed forces.
This week, we are honoring veterans at two events: On Monday, a Town Hall meeting for grades 5 through 8, on Friday at all-school lunch--November 11. Our goal is student awareness of the work and sacrifice of our veterans, and to stimulate discussion about paths to peace in our own lives, in our country, and in our world.
As a Jewish School and a Jewish community, we have a particular responsibility to stay connected to those who fight for America. Whether one is hawkish or dovish, we cannot ignore that the military, our defense forces, play and have played a significant role in the development and protection of the freedoms of the United States.
As we remember the important service of veterans this November 11, let's reflect on our duty to appreciate, nurture, and proliferate peace.
Head's Up is a new blog by Head of School Yoni Binus. We hope you enjoy reading his ruminations on all things related to Heilicher education. If you have a question or topic for Yoni to consider, please email him at ybinus@hmjds.org.
- Social Studies
- Veteran's Day
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