As the world marks the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks and in the shadow of Israel's own challenges following the October 7th disaster, KKL-JNF, Jewish National Fund-USA, and the U.S. Embassy in Israel came together for an important annual memorial ceremony at Jerusalem’s 9/11 Living Memorial. The event honors the victims of 9/11 and highlights the deep bond between Israel and the United States
Against the backdrop of the first year following the October 7th disaster, and as the world commemorated the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA), and the Embassy of the United States of America in Israel came together for their annual memorial ceremony to honor the victims of those tragic events.
The 9/11 Living Memorial Monument stands out as the only memorial site outside the United States to feature the names of all the 9/11 victims. This unique monument embodies the enduring and strong Israeli American relationship, grounded in shared democratic values, peace, and a united front against terrorism.
The ceremony was attended by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jacob J. Lew; World Chairwoman of KKL-JNF Ifat Ovadia-Luski; Chief of Staff Jewish National Fund-USA in Israel Talia Tzour Avner; Commissioner of the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority Eyal Caspi; Tel Aviv Police Commissioner in the Israel Police Amar Peretz; and other distinguished guests.
Additionally, Jill Pila from New York and her daughter Jamie Gartenberg Pila, an IDF lone soldier who made Aliyah with Nefesh B'Nefesh and whose father lost his life in the 9/11 attacks, were present, bringing a deeply personal connection to the event.
During the ceremony, representatives from various organizations and agencies, including the New York Field Office of Customs and Border Protection, laid wreaths in memory of the victims of the disaster, accompanied by U.S. Marines and Israeli firefighters.
Singer-songwriter Daniel Wais, born and raised in Kibbutz Be’eri, who tragically lost his parents in the October 7 terror attacks, expressed his solidarity with the grieving families and honored the event with a heartfelt performance.
The 9/11 Living Memorial was first established in 2009 by KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund -USA. The impressive, thirty-foot-high bronze sculpture was created by the Israeli artist Eliezer Weishoff and KKL-JNFs' landscape architect Yechiel Cohen. It portrays the American flag folded into the shape of a memorial flame. A metal shard from the ruins of the Twin Towers is incorporated into the base of the monument, which overlooks a magnificent vista of the Jerusalem Hills and the Arazim Valley.
Ifat Ovadia-Luski World Chairwoman of KKL-JNF: "In the midst of a challenging year marked by significant obstacles, immense loss, and ongoing conflict since October 7th, it is crucial for us to remember the tragic events of September 11th, when thousands of lives were lost. As KKL-JNF commemorates this solemn anniversary, we honor the 2,977 victims and reflect on the deep and enduring bond between Israel and the United States. The 9/11 memorial, a collaborative project between KKL-JNF and Jewish National Fund-USA, is the only site outside the U.S. to list all those who perished that day. This monument stands as a powerful symbol of our unwavering friendship and shared values of democracy and freedom, showcasing the resilience and unity of our partnership as we continue to support each other through every challenge."
Talia Tzour Avner, Chief of Staff Jewish National Fund-USA in Israel: "This site, the sole 9/11 memorial outside American soil that honors each victim by name, offers a fitting backdrop to unite in remembrance of those lost. It also provides an ideal setting to express our gratitude to the United States for its steadfast dedication to Israel's safety, its enduring alliance and collaboration, and its tangible aid coupled with unwavering moral backing. Here, we can stand together and internalize our shared values, pain, and hopes, singing together the optimistic Jewish folk song, Heveinu Shalom Aleichem, “We Brought Peace Upon You,” our most cherished dream."
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew: “In tragic times we see uncommon bravery and service. In communities across America, we saw that following the 9/11 attacks – from first responders risking their lives running into danger, to people across the country pitching in, many turning to lives of service. Here in Israel, I have met many heroes – ordinary citizens, Jewish and Arab, Bedouin and Druze, saving hundreds of Israelis on October 7…These heroes inspire us to seize every moment, to serve and build, to give more and do more.”
The audience included around 400 Israelis and Americans, volunteer delegations, JNF USA ambassadors, and students from Alexander Muss High School. The ceremony was attended by U.S. Marines currently stationed in Israel, along with American firefighters who came to volunteer. Memorial wreaths were laid on behalf of all participating organizations.
Photos credit Silvia G Golan
From right to left - World Chairwoman of KKL-JNF Ifat Ovadia-Luski, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Jacob J. Lew, Chief of Staff Jewish National Fund-USA in Israel Talia Tzour Avner.
