ABOUT THE DAYS

Yom HaZikaron, the day preceding Israel’s Independence Day, was declared by the Israeli Knesset to be Memorial Day for those who died in struggles that led to the establishment of the State of Israel and for all military personnel who were killed as members of Israel’s armed forces. Joining these two days together conveys a simple message: Israelis owe the independence and the very existence of the Jewish State to those who sacrificed their lives for it.
Yom HaZikaron is different in character and mood from our American Memorial Day. In Israel, all places of public entertainment close for 24 hours. The siren wails twice for two minutes throughout the country, first at 8 a.m., to usher in the day, and again at 11 a.m., before the public recitation of prayers in the military cemeteries. When the sirens blare, all traffic and daily activities cease; the entire nation is still. Families gather in cemeteries, and radio stations broadcast programs about the lives of fallen soldiers. The list grows longer every year as Israel continues to labor for its very survival. Flags in Israel fly at half-mast, and the Yizkor (remembrance) prayer for Israel’s fallen soldiers is recited.

May God remember His sons and daughters who exposed themselves to mortal danger in those days of struggle prior to the establishment of the State of Israel, and (may He remember) the soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces who fell in the wars of Israel. May the people of Israel keep them in their memory and be blessed with their seed; let them mourn the splendor of youth, the charm of valor, the holiness of will, and the devotion of sacrifice, which came to an end in the heavy battles. May the loyal and valiant heroes of freedom and victory be sealed forever within the hearts of Israel.

Yom Ha'atzmaut begins on the fifth day of Iyar, the Hebrew date of the formal establishment of the state. The original date corresponded to May 14, 1948. The official change from Yom HaZikaron to Yom Ha'atzmaut takes place a few moments after sundown. The flag of Israel on Mt. Herzl is raised from half-mast to the top of the pole, and speeches, ceremonies and celebrations begin. Israelis enjoy music, dancing, picnics and fireworks. They also recite the Hallel prayer of thanksgiving and the Al HaNissim prayer during the Amidah.
For American and other Diaspora Jews, celebrating Yom HaAtzmaut is a way to express solidarity with the State of Israel.