This Yom HaZikaron, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) mobilized more than 50 U.S. communities, engaged tens of thousands of participants, and activated roughly 100 young leaders in a nationwide effort to honor Israel’s fallen soldiers.
Across the country, FIDF-supported memorial ceremonies used curated programming that reflected the tone and traditions observed in Israel. The initiative encouraged broad participation and brought entire communities together in a shared experience of remembrance and unity.
A central component of this year’s effort was FIDF’s Hall of Courage (fidf.org/hall-of-courage), an English-language digital memorial dedicated to soldiers who had fallen since October 7. Visitors could learn about the fallen, read biographies, light virtual memorial candles, and write messages of support to bereaved families. FIDF staff in Israel printed and delivered those messages. In the week leading up to Yom HaZikaron, more than 58,000 people worldwide visited the site and lit 60,696 virtual memorial candles.
In partnership with the Israel Ministry of Defense, FIDF engaged Ynet to produce seven-minute documentary films highlighting the lives of those who had fallen on and since October 7, 2023. Ahead of Yom HaZikaron, 26 films were released, with additional films in development and slated for rolling release. They could be viewed with English subtitles on the Hall of Courage, and they also aired in Israel.
Programming in participating communities included large-format poster installations displaying the names and faces of fallen soldiers, bio cards distributed to attendees, and stations for writing letters to bereaved families. Recordings of Israel’s memorial siren, video tributes, and translated excerpts from soldiers’ final letters further deepened the experience and aligned it with commemorations in Israel.
In parallel, approximately 100 young leaders led a grassroots campaign to distribute memorial stickers in their communities. Modeled after a movement in Israel, the stickers featured photos, quotes, and artwork from fallen soldiers selected by their families. They created a personal, visible tribute that extended beyond formal ceremonies.
“Bringing Yom HaZikaron to communities across the United States is about ensuring that Israel’s fallen soldiers are remembered not only in Israel but by the global Jewish community as well,” said FIDF CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Nadav Padan. “Through the Hall of Courage and the collective participation of tens of thousands, we are creating meaningful ways for people to connect, remember, and stand with the families who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting the brave men and women of the IDF who risk everything to protect the State of Israel and the Jewish people. While the mission of the IDF’s heroes is to look after Israel, defending its people, borders and freedom, FIDF’s mission is to look after them. FIDF provides life-changing support through education, financial aid, bereavement programs, mental health services and more, ensuring that every soldier, veteran and bereaved family knows they are not alone. Through global partnerships and steadfast commitment, FIDF serves as a pillar of strength for those who sacrifice so much in service to the Jewish homeland.
Let Us Know What You Think