ב׳ כסלו ה׳תשפ״ז | November 12, 2026

Jewish Veterans Remember Fallen Comrades With Kaddish

A moving Veterans Day tribute was led by Rabbi Chesky Tenenbaum of Chabad’s Jewish Uniformed Services Association at a Maryland military cemetery, where Jewish veterans remembered fallen comrades with Kaddish and a retired Navy captain put on tefillin.

The local community gathered at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery to observe Veterans Day, transforming a solemn state ceremony into a meaningful tribute to those who served.

Following the main 10:30 AM state observance, local Jewish veterans and community members came together at Noon for a gathering of military and faith.

The midday service was a collaborative effort led by Rabbi Chesky Tenenbaum of the Jewish Uniformed Services Association of Maryland-Chabad (JUSA) and Dan Berkovitz, Commander of the Maryland Free State Post 167 of the Jewish War Veterans of the USA (JWV). Standing among the quiet rows of white marble markers brought a profound sense of tradition and communal support to the day.

Local leaders also stepped forward to express their gratitude. Maryland State Delegate Jon Cardin and Baltimore County’s Jonathan Schwartz each shared heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the community’s unwavering appreciation for the sacrifices made by military families and the importance of ensuring veterans are supported long after they return home.

The most powerful moments of the gathering, however, belonged to the veterans themselves. In a moving departure from standard ceremonial speeches, the floor was opened for veterans to share who they were carrying in their thoughts and prayers. One by one, men and women spoke the names of fallen comrades, childhood friends, and family members who had worn the uniform. Hearing these personal stories brought a stark, human reality to the day, shifting the focus from historical dates to the faces and memories that these veterans carry with them every day.

To honor those memories, the gathering united in prayer. Rabbi Tenenbaum led the recitation of the Kel Maleh Rachamim, the traditional prayer for the souls of the departed, its ancient melody echoing across the peaceful grounds. This was followed by a collective recitation of the Mourner’s Kaddish, a powerful affirmation of life and peace in the face of loss.

At the conclusion, a Vietnam Veteran and Retired Navy Captain put on tefillin in honor of the Day.