In times gone by, November 11th was Armistice Day.  It recorded the end of World War One on “the 11th Hour of the 11th Day of the 11th Month”.  For me, it is sort of fascinating to think in 1918, it celebrated not just those who served in World War One, but also those who served with Teddy Roosevelt in the Spanish America War.  And even the surviving veterans from Gettysburg and the Civil War.  After World War Two, the observance was changed to Veterans Day, as we now know it.  More important then the BBQ and parades we take part in, the most important thing, the reason for the observance is to recognize and celebrate those who served our nation in uniform.   For those in our congregation who served in uniform or your family members who served, we thank you so much for your service and sacrifice.

Here at Congregation Am HaYam, we proudly engage in outreach to those on active duty at our local base of Navy Base Ventura County.  It is so important we open our doors and hearts to those a long way from their families and offer them a place to observe and celebrate their/our faith.  It makes me happy to say we’ve had success in our open door and outreach to those servicemen and servicewomen.

On this Veterans Day, we thank those who served and continue to serve.  Thank you for your service and CAH is proud to be of service,

Rabbi Ron

PS:  This picture is from a recent Interfaith Day at Navy Base Ventura County.  See if you notice a person or two you know, conducting outreach to the sailors and airmen there: