Despite some inclement weather on Sunday, Nov. 10, the 
Jewish War Veterans Department of Michigan (JWV) once 
again participated in this year’s annual Detroit Veteran’s 
Day Parade. Several members braved the elements carry-
ing the American, state of Michigan and JWV flags, while 
other members trailed in three cars that wound their way 
through the Corktown parade route. 
Fox 2 Chief Meteorologist, U.S. Air Force Veteran and 
member of the JWV, Rich Luterman, returned to emcee 
the opening ceremonies. “As a proud veteran, the parade 
is a symbol for those who have worn the uniform and for 
those who wear the uniform today, to protect our free-
doms here in the United States,” Luterman said. “We thank 
them all and admire their devotion, service and bravery.”
Residents of the Hechtman Apartments marked 
Veterans Day with a special celebration on Monday, Nov. 
11. Jewish War Veterans Dr. Ed Adler and Dr. Michael 
Steinberg were their special guest speakers; invited by 
Life Enrichment Coordinator Tova Schreiber. The two 
spoke about their experiences in the military and shared 
photos from their time in the service. 
Hechtman veterans were acknowledged and thanked, 
and everyone enjoyed patriotically colored refreshments 
in a room decorated with recruitment posters from World 
War I and World War II. The celebration concluded with a 
stirring performance of patriotic, military and USO songs 
by talented singer Vanessa Carr.
Also on Veterans Day, JWV members Sid Lichter, Mark 
Reed, Bill Glogower and Mark Weiss were honored guests 
at the Jewish Community Center of Great Ann Arbor’s 
Veterans Appreciation luncheon. Lichter and Reed 
provided remarks about their military backgrounds. 

ities, not the least of which was overseeing the detention facility 
holding the 9-11 terrorists.
In his civilian life, Hiipakka is the CEO of the Michigan Israel 
Business Accelerator (MIBA). The organization states as their 
mission — “To connect Israeli innovation to Michigan business-
es, enhancing their competitive edge to drive positive economic 
impact across both regions.”
Besides reflecting on his career, Hiipakka shared experiences 
he had during two trips he’s taken to Israel since the Oct. 7, 2023, 
attacks. “Hearing the stories of survivors and their families was 
incredibly moving and difficult,” he said. “But through the trag-
edy, we see hope. We see families reuniting, Israel successfully 
defending itself against terrorism and the United States providing 
support to Israel.” 
In his closing remarks Hippikka focused on what he called “the 
Jewish community’s long tradition of service — a legacy that dates 
back to the Revolutionary War, when Jewish patriots fought 
in the militias of the original 13 colonies. Through the 
Civil War, and continuing through America’s histo-
ry, Jewish Americans have answered the call to 
serve our nation.”
In a touching tribute, Hippikka also asked 
that family members of service men and 
women, and those who have employed 
veterans to stand and be recognized. 
“Together we pause,” Hiipakka said, “to 
reflect on the combined commitment of 
our families, our employers and our com-
munities that support military service. 
Together, we stand. Together, we serve.”
The Veterans Shabbat concluded with 
CSZ Hazzan David Propis leading the con-
gregation in a spirited Armed Forces Medley, 
service songs from each branch of the mili-
tary. I was given the honor of waving each 
branch’s flag in the front of the sanctuary 
as the hazzan sang. You might say a 
“feather in my JWV Post 510 cap” of this 
retired sixth-grade crossing guard.

A JEWISH VOICE FOR VETERANS, 
A VETERANS’ VOICE FOR JEWS
The Jewish War Veterans is the oldest con-
tinuously operational veteran service in the 
United States, founded in 1896 specifically to 
dispel the false and antisemitic claims that Jews 
did not serve in the military to protect our nation. 
Today, 128 years later, the JWV continues to be a voice 
for all veterans, service members and family members, combat-
ting antisemitism and supporting the State of Israel.
The JWV needs your support today more than ever to be that 
voice for generations to come. Whether you are an active Jewish 
service member, a veteran, or a non-military member of our 
community, there is room for everyone to help continue to make 
a difference.
Learn more and join us! Email: Membership@jwv-mi.org or 
call (248) 855-5085. 

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: 
 
JWV members march in 
the Detroit Veterans Day 
Parade.
 
Dr. Ed Adler and Dr. 
Michael Steinberg at 
Hechtman Apartments 
on Veterans Day. 
 
Fox 2’s Rich Luterman, 
a JWV member, emcees 
Detroit’s Veterans Day 
Parade.
NOVEMBER 28 • 2024 | 29

Veterans Day
 Activities

CITY OF DETROIT

