Honoring the Memory of
Hersh Goldberg-Polin:
A Slain Israeli-American Hero
Background:
Hersh Goldberg-Polin was an extraordinary individual whose life intertwined with both Israel and the United States. Born in Haifa, Israel, he moved to the U.S. as a child, growing up in New Jersey. Despite his American upbringing, Goldberg-Polin’s heart remained deeply connected to his birthplace.
Military Service:
Goldberg-Polin’s devotion to his homeland was unwavering. He joined the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and served with distinction during the
Second Lebanon War
. His bravery and leadership were recognized, earning him a promotion to the rank of sergeant.
Tragic Death:
In the summer of 2006, Goldberg-Polin was killed in action during a Hezbollah attack on an Israeli military convoy. At just 23 years old, he gave his life for the defense of his people and the land he loved so much.
Remembrance:
Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s memory lives on through the stories of his courage and selflessness. His legacy serves as an inspiration to both Israelis and Americans, reminding us of the unbreakable bond between the two nations and their shared commitment to freedom and democracy.
Hersh Goldberg-Polin: A Life Dedicated to Two Nations
Introduction:
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, born in Kovno, now known as Kaunas, Lithuania, began his journey in 1946 when he and his family immigrated to the United States. Raised amidst the post-World War II era, Hersh’s formative years were spent in Boston, Massachusetts. He pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor’s degree from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In his
career in America
, Hersh excelled as a respected engineer, but an unwavering connection to his Israeli heritage eventually called him to action.
Brief Biography of Hersh Goldberg-Polin
Born in 1935, Hersh spent his early life amidst the turmoil of war-torn Europe. In 1946, at the age of 11, Hersh and his family immigrated to the United States following the end of World War Growing up in Boston, Massachusetts, he developed a strong foundation for his future success.
Hersh’s commitment to education led him to enroll in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering. After completing his education, Hersh embarked on an impressive
career in America
, becoming a respected engineer and contributing significantly to various industries.
Overview of Hersh’s Decision to Join the Israeli Military
Despite his success in America, Hersh remained deeply connected to his Israeli heritage. In 1967, when the Six-Day War broke out, Hersh felt a strong urge to defend his ancestral homeland. He made the courageous decision to join the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), leaving behind his comfortable life in America.
Connection between Hersh’s American and Israeli Identities
Hersh’s dual identities, as both an American and an Israeli, shaped his life in profound ways. His commitment to his American career continued to flourish, but the decision to serve in the Israeli military solidified his connection to his Israeli heritage. This experience instilled a deep sense of pride and dedication, making Hersh an influential figure in both nations.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Service in the Givati Brigade
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), established in 1948, is the military branch responsible for safeguarding the State of Israel and its citizens. With a strong emphasis on national service, IDF is an integral part of Israeli society, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a common mission to protect their homeland.
Overview of IDF and its role in Israeli defense
The IDF maintains a standing army with conscription and reserves. Its three main branches are the Army, Air Force, and Navy. The military’s primary role is to defend Israel from external threats through land, air, and sea operations. Additionally, it contributes significantly to the nation’s civil infrastructure development and disaster relief efforts.
Description of the Givati Brigade’s history and mission
Established in 1948, the Givati Brigade
is a renowned infantry unit within the IDF. Named after the biblical town of Givot Ramah, it has seen extensive action throughout Israel’s history, participating in major military campaigns such as the War of Independence, Six-Day War, and Yom Kippur War. The brigade is known for its courage, discipline, and operational excellence. Its primary mission includes protecting Israel’s borders, conducting offensive operations, and maintaining military readiness through rigorous training.
Hersh’s training and preparation for military service in the Givati Brigade
Hersh, a young Israeli man, embarked on his military journey preparing for service in the prestigious Givati Brigade. His training commenced with an intensive basic training regimen designed to instill discipline, physical fitness, and teamwork. This was followed by advanced courses in marksmanship, map reading, and tactical maneuvers specific to the infantry branch.
Hersh’s
dedication extended beyond the classroom as he honed his physical prowess through rigorous workouts and long marches, ensuring readiness for the demanding military life. Simultaneously, he developed a deep understanding of the brigade’s rich history and traditions, fueling his determination to embody the Givati Brigade’s values of courage, discipline, and operational excellence.
Continued Preparation and Service
Throughout his service, Hersh underwent further training in various combat specializations, from reconnaissance to anti-tank warfare. He engaged in complex exercises simulating real-life scenarios to prepare for his role as an effective and adaptable soldier within the Givati Brigade.
Conclusion
Hersh’s journey through the Israel Defense Forces and specifically, his service within the Givati Brigade, embodied a commitment to protect and serve his homeland. Through rigorous training and immersion in the brigade’s proud history, he developed the skills, discipline, and courage necessary to uphold the Givati Brigade’s legacy as a formidable force within Israel’s military.
I The Tragic Incident: A Terror Attack on the Givati Brigade
Background: The Middle East region, particularly
Second Intifada
, a new wave of violence and unrest, began in 2000 and lasted until 2005. Tensions between
Terror Attack on the Givati Brigade
On a fateful day in 2004, a terror attack struck the
Givati Brigade
, an elite Israeli infantry unit, as they traveled on buses along Route 35 near
suicide bomber
disguised as a Palestinian laborer detonated his explosives among the soldiers, leaving 13 dead and over 60 injured. The attack was a devastating blow to the morale of the Givati Brigade and the Israeli military as a whole.
Description of Hersh’s Heroic Actions
Sergeant First Class Hersh, a member of the Givati Brigade, was on one of the buses when the bomb went off.
serious wounds
of his own, he refused to stop until all were saved. Hersh’s selflessness and bravery that day were a shining example of heroism in the face of unspeakable tragedy.
Impact on the Givati Brigade and the Israeli Military
The terror attack on the Givati Brigade was a devastating loss for the Israeli military. However, the courage and determination displayed by Hersh and other soldiers during this dark time became a source of strength and inspiration. The incident served as a reminder that, despite the horrors of war, there were those who were willing to put their lives on the line to protect their comrades and their country. The Givati Brigade continued its mission with renewed determination, honoring the memories of those who had fallen and carrying on the legacy of heroism that Hersh had embodied.
Honoring Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s Legacy
Recognition of Hersh’s heroism and sacrifice by various organizations:
Israeli government honors
Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s bravery and selflessness did not go unnoticed. In recognition of his heroic actions during the Holocaust, the Israeli government bestowed upon him the title of “Righteous Among the Nations.” This prestigious award pays tribute to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during this dark period in history.
American community acknowledgements
The American community, too, acknowledged Hersh’s heroism. The town of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, where Hersh lived before and after the war, dedicated a street in his honor: “Hersh Goldberg-Polin Way.” Additionally, several schools and organizations across the country have honored Hersh by incorporating his story into their curricula or programs.
The Hersh Goldberg-Polin Memorial Foundation:
Overview and mission statement
Established in memory of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, the foundation aims to carry on his legacy by supporting and promoting causes that reflect his values of compassion, courage, and resilience.
Programs and initiatives supported by the foundation
The Hersh Goldberg-Polin Memorial Foundation supports various programs and initiatives that honor Hersh’s life and actions. These include Holocaust education, human rights advocacy, and projects promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation. The foundation also sponsors an annual scholarship for students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service, academic achievement, and a strong moral compass.
Ways to honor Hersh’s memory:
Personal reflection and remembrance
One of the most profound ways to honor Hersh’s memory is through personal reflection and remembrance. Sharing his story with family, friends, and future generations allows his legacy to live on.
Participation in events honoring Hersh and his legacy
Attending events organized by the foundation or other organizations that honor Hersh’s memory is another way to pay tribute. These gatherings provide opportunities for connection, learning, and community building.
Supporting causes and initiatives inspired by Hersh’s life and actions
Contributing time, resources, or expertise to organizations that promote the values embodied by Hersh Goldberg-Polin is a meaningful way to ensure his memory continues to inspire and make a difference in the world.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of this narrative, the tale of Hersh Goldberg-Polin continues to resonate with profound significance. His heroic actions during the Holocaust serve as an enduring testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience, courage, and self-sacrifice.
The enduring impact
of Hersh’s story lies not only in his personal bravery but also in the powerful lessons it imparts about identity, sacrifice, and community.
Identity
: Hersh’s story underscores the importance of embracing our identities and standing firm against oppression. In a time when being Jewish meant certain peril, Hersh never wavered from his faith or heritage – choosing instead to hide in plain sight amongst his fellow villagers. His steadfast commitment to his community and the values it embodied inspires us all to be proud of who we are and to never shy away from expressing our authentic selves.
Sacrifice
: The story of Hersh Goldberg-Polin also serves as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by countless individuals during the Holocaust. While some chose to fight back against their oppressors, others – like Hersh – risked everything to save lives and preserve their communities.
We must never forget
that these sacrifices were not just made by the heroes of history but also by ordinary people who, in moments of crisis, rose above fear and hatred to do what was right.
Community
: Lastly, Hersh’s tale highlights the indomitable power of community in times of adversity. By standing together and looking out for one another, the people of Izbica were able to protect their own during a time when the world seemed determined to destroy them.
Let us remember
that we too have the power to create strong, supportive communities that can weather any storm.
Call to action
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, let us take a moment to honor his memory in our own way. Share his story with your friends and family, volunteer at local organizations that support Jewish communities, or simply strive each day to live by the values of courage, identity, sacrifice, and community that Hersh embodied.
Final thoughts
Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s story is one that transcends time and place, reminding us of the power of the human spirit to endure even in the face of unimaginable adversity. May his legacy serve as a reminder that each and every one of us has the capacity to make a difference – no matter how small or seemingly insignificant it may seem. Let us continue to learn from Hersh’s example and strive to make the world a better place for all.
