On Tuesday, Nov. 11, the Tidewater Jewish Foundation honored veterans at its annual Veterans Day service. Approximately 70 people attended— including a local group of Ukrainian immigrants who attend every year. Although a rainy day kept the entire service indoors, the sentiment and honor were as strong as ever.
Alicia Kraus spoke of her grandfather Sy Brenner’s experience during WWII , of his capture in France and tremendous life events that transpired. Brenner, who resides in San Diego, still speaks with groups about his experiences and the importance of understanding and dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The group also heard from Lt. Col. Nathan Brauner, who recently retired after 27 years of service in the U.S. Air Force. Brauner quoted from In Flanders Fields and the meaning of the red remembrance poppy. He spoke of the importance of Jewish participation in the military and the many sacrifices of those who came before.
The Tidewater Jewish Foundation expresses appreciation to all of the people who made the service possible, and to the staff of the Sandler Family Campus who maintain the Jewish War Veterans Monument year-round.