Israeli Lone Soldier Visits Agnon

While at Agnon, Sergeant Jay spoke about his decision to move to Israel from the states and join the Israeli army. He also talked about the Michael Levine Memorial Center, a support organization whose goal is to ensure that lone soldiers of the IDF have the necessary information and connections to succeed. For more information, go to www.lonesoldiercenter.com.

In addition, he shared stories and images from a book entitled Lone Soldiers: Israel’s Defenders from Around the World. This informative book tells the personal stories of 14 volunteer lone soldiers serving in the IDF.

As a lone soldier, Sergeant Jay speaks to many groups who visit Israel. That’s how he met Agnon parent Shari Goldberg last summer in Jerusalem. After sharing his experiences and choices as a lone soldier with Shari’s tour group, the two stayed in contact.

“With a month’s leave from the army each year, I enjoy reconnecting and building relationships with the people I’ve met in Israel while speaking on behalf of the lone soldiers,” said Sergeant Jay. “After stopping in Cleveland to see Shari, I cannot tell you how excited I was when I left Cleveland – not excited to leave, but excited by the people I met. Everyone was so nice and warm. The Agnon students are enthusiastic about school and learning in a way I cannot remember ever seeing. This environment inspired me to seek greater heights in Jewish education.”