A s a patron of the Jewish War Veterans (JWV), Department of Michigan, I’ve had the privilege of writing about its membership for the last several years. I know firsthand how grateful the JWV is for the JN’s con- tinued support. My military buddies are a busy bunch, and no time of year is busier than in and around Veterans Day. Congregation Shaarey Zedek (CSZ) held its annual Veterans Shabbat service on Saturday, Nov. 9, now in its 17th year. A large gather- ing of the JWV was in attendance. The city of Southfield Police Department’s Color Guard opened the official ceremony, leading the processional of JWV, members of its Women’s Auxiliary and family mem- bers down the long center aisle. It was a grand entrance. In uni- son, the congregation waved small, handheld American flags as we made our way into the sanctuary accompanied by patriotic music. At official JWV events, we wear a blue blazer, white shirt, red tie, gray slacks, black shoes and our JWV post hats. Just prior to entering the synagogue, a volunteer with a big smile pinned boutonnières on our lapels and greeted us with a “thank you for your service.” I was very appreciative for the sal- utation but explained that although I’m a proud patron of the JWV, I didn’t actually serve. When mistak- en for a veteran, I tell people that my civic duty only included being a crossing guard as a sixth-grader at Glenn Schoenhals Elementary School in Southfield. My tour of duty ended in 1967. The boutonnières have been gen- erously provided for years by long- time CSZ members Dr. Paul and Linda Gold. Dr. Gold is a member of the JWV who I had the privilege of featuring in a cover story in the Nov. 5, 2020, edition of the JN — “The Docs of War.” It chronicles the bravery of Gold, as a captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corp., and other local Jewish physicians, who saved countless lives in Vietnam. VETERANS SHABBAT SERVICE The salute to veterans follows CSZ’s regular Shabbat service. Bill Glogower, JWV Dept. of Michigan Sr. Vice Commander, member of CSZ and retired Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, officially opened the program by announcing the posting of the colors by the Southfield Police. Donald Wagner, Judge Advocate of JWV, retired Captain, U.S. Army, and husband to Dottie, a past pres- ident of CSZ, provided welcoming remarks. Wagner expressed his “pride and gratitude” in chairing the last 10 years of the Veterans Shabbat. “Just as the military teaches teamwork, this event could not be brought to our community these many years without the efforts of so many,” Wagner said. He thanked the clergy, the CSZ staff and congre- gants for their unwavering support, including member Linda Cohen “who 17 years ago developed the vision for the Veterans Shabbat.” Retired Brigadier General, U.S. Army, Don Schenk, Commander of Lt. Raymond Zussman Post 135 and CSZ member, paid special recogni- tion to the “millions of others who contribute to keeping our country secure by what they do in support.” He referred to those who treat our service men and women at health care institutions and to those who continue to man the Arsenal of Democracy. “These people provide the material with which America’s military and its allies and friends, like Israel, are able to defend them- selves,” Schenk said. The keynote guest speaker was Major General Scott Hiipakka. He is what is referred to as a “Citizen Soldier,” who has dual responsibil- ities both within and outside the military. In mid-2023, he assumed the prestigious role of Commanding General for the 46th Military Police Command of the Michigan Army National Guard. Prior to this role, he served as the Commanding General of Joint Task Force Guantanamo, where he was responsible and accountable for major tactical and operational activ- Shaarey Zedek hosts 17th annual Veterans Shabbat. Honoring Our Veterans ALAN MUSKOVITZ CONTRIBUTING WRITER OUR COMMUNITY Major General Scott Hiipakka (L) and Retired Brig. General and JWV member Don Schenk (R) in front of the sanctuary at Shaarey Zedek. 28 | NOVEMBER 28 • 2024