W
hile there are many soldiers
throughout Israel who serve for
various reasons from the U.S. some
follow in their family’s footsteps. That’s exactly
what Joseph Icikson, whose grandparents live
in Metro Detroit, decided to do.
Joseph Icikson of New York, age 22, is an
active combat soldier in the Israel Defense
Forces (IDF). Instead of studying in college
like most people his age, he decided to serve
as a soldier in one of the world’s most danger-
ous war zones.
Joseph shared his pride with the Detroit
Jewish News over an email saying it’s an honor
to serve. “I am truly lucky to have the oppor-
tunity to continue
the legacy of both
my family and all of
the Jewish people.
It’s amazing to see
how far we’ve come
from where we were
not too long ago,” he
wrote.
Joseph’s grand-
parents are William
and Esther Icikson.
They spoke over
the phone with the
Jewish News, saying
how happy they are
after hearing their
grandson wanted to follow their example.
“Israel was very special and deep in our heart
because I served in the army and my husband
fought for Israel. So, it’s very special,” Esther
said.
William is also a survivor of the Holocaust,
Grandson of local
Holocaust survivor honors
his family by serving in
Israel Defense Forces.
A Lone
Soldier’s
Story
RACHEL SWEET ASSOCIATE EDITOR
22 | MARCH 17 • 2022
OUR COMMUNITY
ABOVE: Joseph
Icikson during
Chanukah.
LEFT: Icikson is an
active soldier in the
IDF.
COURTESY FIDF