While in most of the world it might be easy to miss Yom Hazikaron,
in Jerusalem, it is impossible to forget.
From announcements of major events of the day on the side of a bus
to a display of memorial candles in the shampoo aisle in the supermarket,
it is a day to remember
fallen soldiers
and the victims of terror attacks.
Since the Passover holiday ended, flags have been placed
on the tops of public buildings,
on businesses,
and on private residences.
From the hat shop in the center of town
to the walls of the Old City,
the blue and white Israeli flag
seems to be everywhere.
As the sun set on Sunday night, local community ceremonies were held,
and major events were broadcast on television and radio.
The Churva Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City was adorned with flags, waiting for visitors,
but mincha, the afternoon prayer service in the newly restored sanctuary was poorly attended.
Most views of the Kotel, the Western Wall plaza were blocked for security reasons,
as the official National commemoration began
with the honor guard and lighting of a memorial flame.
The new Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defence Forces, Lt. General Benny Gantz addressed the public
after a speech by President Shimon Peres,
but those without the special tickets would have had a much better view at home on TV.
Heading home, the stores of Mamilla Mall and places of entertainment and food were all closed.
Monday many services, both public and private, are held to remember those who died…
and those soldiers still missing.
As soon as Yom Hazikaron ends at nightfall, as every year,
Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel Independence Day…begins.
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