FIDF Miami supporters rally around defenders of Israel

Miami, Florida (March 9, 2022) – Attacks against freedom, such as the crisis in Ukraine and antisemitic violence in Europe and the United States, are a stark reminder of the vital importance of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers’ mission to defend the Jewish homeland – a safe haven for Jews around the world. Friends of the IDF (FIDF) supporters in Miami came out in droves last Thursday to show support for the troops who are responsible for the safety, and very existence, of Israel.

FIDF Greater Miami Chapter held a Solidarity Gala at The Diplomat Hollywood Beach Resort, which drew some 850 leaders from the Greater Miami area to hear from important members of the IDF. Funds raised will be distributed toward well-being and educational programs dedicated to initiatives for soldiers serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

Three active-duty IDF soldiers attended the event, including Major Ofir, who serves as the Company Commander for officers professional training in the IDF Search and Rescue unit. Major Ofir is a “Chief of Staff’s Excellency Award” recipient and was part of the elite Israeli delegation that volunteered during the Surfside search and rescue mission.

Dina Benari, FIDF VP Southern Region, FIDF CEO Steven Weil, Mayor Gabriel Groisman, Bal Harbour, FL, Maj. Ofir, Capt. Dean, Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami Dade County, Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan, FIDF National Director, Col. Ziv Nimni, Attache, Washington, D.C, Lt. Yossi. (Photo credit: Erez Kashi, courtesy of FIDF)

Throughout the mission, FIDF representatives and volunteers stepped up and provided critical support to Major Ofir and the IDF Search and Rescue Unit, including new rescue equipment, kosher food and more. FIDF provided the unit with the warm care of extended family while they were far from home.

“Whether in Israel or abroad, we are proud to provide support during the most difficult humanitarian crises,” said Major Ofir. “Working with the local rescue forces in Surfside was an incredible experience because we got to connect with one another and learn from one another. We experienced this tragedy together and we are thankful to the FIDF for caring for us during our stay.”

Capt. Dean is an Israeli Naval Academy graduate who served aboard a naval mission which involved the installation of a Naval Dome – the Navy’s counterpart to Israel’s Iron Dome Defense System. During Operation Guardian of the Walls, Dean’s mission was to protect the gas rigs off the shore of Ashkelon, which provide approximately 70% of Israel’s electricity consumption.

Maj. Ofir, Capt. Dean, Dina Benari, FIDF VP Southern Region, Lt. Yossi, Nicole Krassner, Director FIDF Miami Chapter, Sam Moshe, President Miami Chapter, Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan, FIDF National Director, Col. Niv Nimni, IDF Attache Washington, DC.

Lt. Yossi is another active-duty soldier who faced some tough challenges while growing up, including a bout with drugs, alcohol and multiple arrests. The young soldier was able to turn his life around after enlisting in the IDF, where he eventually became a combat soldier. After completing his basic training, Yossi was chosen as the most outstanding soldier in the company. He continued to excel and win awards, landing him an opportunity to attend the prestigious Officer’s Academy. Today, Yossi proudly serves as the Vice Company Commander in Rotem Unit of The Givati Brigade.

Community leaders and FIDF supporters Joelle and Joseph Hanono cochaired the gala. Miami Chapter Pillar Oren Kattan was honored with the Excellence in Leadership Award, while Marcel Calef, a fellow Miami Chapter Pillar, was presented with the Commitment to Education Award.

“We were so honored and excited to bring Miami’s pro-Israel community together for this inspiring event, giving our supporters the opportunity to hear directly from, and to thank, the brave soldiers who protect Israel – and Jews, worldwide, said Nicole Krassner, FIDF Greater Miami Chapter Director. “It gave the community a chance to provide for them through FIDF’s well-being and educational programs, which have a tremendous impact on, not only the lives on these young heroes, but all of Israeli society.”