Over Sukkoth, IYIM was privileged to host a very special Torah dedication for the IDF by the Glogower family. David and Emily Glowgower along with their parents, cousins, and friends dedicated two Sifrei Torah to the IDF in loving memory of their grandparents.

The Torahs were dedicated at the IDF regional headquarters of the Jordan Valley. In order to understand the strategic significance of this part of Israel, the group was given a tour of the area, which explained the religious, strategic and political importance of the region. During the trip, they learned about the city of Jericho, where Yehoshua first crossed into the Land of Israel.Then the family visited a date farm where they learned about the process of how dates grow and they got to experience the taste of the sweet fruits of the country.

The Glogower family and friends were met by musicians blowing shofars, beating on drums and playing various instruments upon entering “Hatmar 417” ( the IDF base). After some dancing, the family was invited to “dress” the two Sifrei Torah with me’ilim (coats) that had embroidered dedications of their two grandfathers. This was followed by speeches in the auditorium by Rabbi Tom Edelshtein, Lt. Col (Res.) Yediya Atlas, Daniel M. Meyer, Emily Glowgower and Rabbi. Dr.Israel Bruck. Then the lively procession took place where soldiers and family members took turns in holding the Torahs under the chuppah and singing and dancing could be heard all throughout the base as the Torahs made their way to the synagogue.

The ceremony was incredibly moving and joyous as the two Torahs found their new home with the defenders of the State of Israel.