TRENTON, N.J. – Veterans Day in America is celebrated on November 11th. It’s a day that honors all veterans regardless of race, religion, or gender. Now, there’s a bill in the New Jersey legislature seeking to create an exclusive Veterans Day holiday just for Jewish American military veterans.
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie has introduced a resolution to designate March 15 as Jewish War Veterans Day in New Jersey, marking the 128th anniversary of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America organization. Sauickie highlighted the dual battles Jewish American soldiers have fought against both national adversaries and the internal scourge of antisemitism, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their service amidst a resurgence of anti-Semitic rhetoric and crimes.
The resolution responds to historical antisemitic claims by commemorating the formation of the Hebrew Union Veterans Association on March 15, 1896, in New York City by Jewish Civil War veterans. This organization, now known as the Jewish War Veterans of America, advocates for Jewish veterans’ issues, ranging from funding for veterans’ homes to providing kosher food for troops. Chuck Greenberg, commander of the New Jersey department of the national Jewish War Veterans organization, expressed pride in their advocacy against antisemitism and support for veterans.
AJR163, the proposed joint resolution, encourages public officials, organizations, and citizens to honor Jewish war veterans with appropriate events and activities annually on March 15. Sauickie’s resolution aims to ensure lasting recognition for Jewish veterans’ contributions to American values, freedom, and the ongoing fight against hate.