Israel tribute to Women defenders

The installation of the sculpture honoring the women of the Israel Defense Forces is now underway. The sculpture - depicting two female soldiers, one from 1948 and one from 2024 - is expected to be completed and delivered by late May, with a dedication ceremony to follow. Standing approximately 12 feet tall atop a hill, the tribute will occupy a prominent site in Petach Tikva, a city known as the "Mother of Settlements." Founded in the late 19th century as the first modern Jewish agricultural community, Petach Tikva has grown into a major city near Tel Aviv, home to medical centers, technology companies, and thriving neighborhoods - a fitting location for a memorial of national significance.

The project is the work of Jerry Klinger, a Florida resident and president of the Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation. After a successful career in finance, Klinger has devoted his life to preserving Jewish heritage through historical markers, plaques, and monuments across the United States and abroad. His work shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions of Jewish individuals and communities to history.

The tribute to the women of the IDF carries a particular importance after the Hamas attack of Oct. 7, 2023 - the deadliest day for Israel since the Holocaust. Among those who fought to defend Israel that day were young women serving as spotters along the Gaza border, known as the Tatzpaniyot. Despite their warnings about unusual activity being dismissed in the weeks before the assault, these women stood their ground when Hamas militants stormed the border. Some fought back with the few weapons available to them; others, including female tank crews sent in during the chaos, played critical roles in repelling the attackers. Many of these women lost their lives.

Klinger's vision is clear: to make sure the bravery and sacrifice of all the women of the IDF is permanently and visibly honored. As he often says, "Doing the right thing is doing the right thing."