Hundreds of thousands tune into largest English-language Memorial Day ceremony

Hundreds of thousands tuned into a Memorial Day service on Monday evening in Latrun — the largest English-language event of its kind — organized by the Masa Israel Journey organization to honor Jewish victims of terror and fallen Israel Defense Forces soldiers who were born overseas.

Organizers said 7,000 people attended the event itself, which included Masa alumni, bereaved families, politicians and Jewish community leaders from across the globe. Hundreds of thousands viewed the livestream of the ceremony, according to a statement by Masa.

“Forever Connected” was the theme of the ceremony, as “an important reminder that we are forever connected through our history and the safety and continued survival of our country,” the statement said.

The lead-up to this year’s Memorial Day has been overshadowed by concern that political turmoil engulfing the country could mar the solemn day’s commemorations.

During the events, the nation stops to commemorate the 24,213 killed in service to the state and the pre-state Jewish community and the 4,255 victims of terror. READ MORE