May 14th, 2017 – Gregory Beiderman and the Concentration Camp and Ghetto Survivors of Rishon LeZion invited Jeff Shelton and the volunteer group from the U.S. to come celebrate victory with them over the fascist regime on May 9, 1945.

Victory Day celebration always brings mixed memories and feelings.  Photos, medals and songs of the war era are the usual ingredients of these celebrations, and many tears of both grief and joy are always shed by the veterans, the survivors and everyone else who comes to participate. In spite of so much tragedy and loss, the survivors still celebrate because they have prevailed.

The volunteers were blessed to share in the celebration and in the memories and stories of the survivors. There were also snacks, hugs and handshakes that helped people to sense that it is good to dwell in unity and peace.