: A Circle of Support That Comes Full Circle
The Hebrew Ceremony – Reliving My Own Moment
As someone who is part of the Big Brother program and a mentor to other lone soldiers, attending the Hebrew ceremony felt like going back in time — seeing myself standing in the crowd, so excited for what was to come and so proud to be able to protect my country and my people.
“That’s My Little Brother” – A Small Sign, A Big Smile
Being there for Even, holding up a big sign that said, “That’s my little brother,” even though he’s actually older than me, put a big smile on his face during the ceremony. At my own ceremony, because of COVID restrictions, no one was able to come and cheer me on. That made it even more special to be there cheering for another lone soldier.
Machve Alon – Where I Learned Language and People
After the ceremony, we shared funny stories from the base — like how I used to always get confused with directions in Hebrew. Machve Alon, the base where the Hebrew course takes place, will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s not only where I learned Hebrew but also where I learned about Israel and the diverse people who make it what it is. My Hebrew course team included Russians, Ukrainians, French, Ethiopians, South Africans, and Americans, and I learned from each of them.
Being There for Others – From My Journey to Supporting Lone Soldiers
There is something truly special about being there for someone during such a meaningful moment, but it’s even more powerful when you remember how much that same moment meant to you when you were in their shoes. Now, I get to support them, hold up silly signs, and remind them — I’m here for you.
In total, 40 Big Brother volunteers came to the Machve Alon ceremony to support the excited lone soldiers and to join them at the very beginning of a new journey filled with challenges, experiences, and growth in their military service.
