Admiral Ya’ari Visits Chabad Shul

Vice Admiral Yedidya Ya’ari, Commander-in-Chief of the Israeli Navy, was guest this Shabbat at the The Shul of Bal Harbour, Florida.

The Commander was called to the Torah (aliyah), which he took wearing full uniform. After the prayers Ya’ari addressed the packed synagogue, noting that this is the first time in history that an Israeli Admiral received an aliyah in full uniform. Ya’ari spoke about the difficulties faced by Israel during the past two terrible years. “What a colossal mistake, what great foolishness of our oppressors to think that they will break our spirit,” Yaa’ri said.

Speaking of the heroic efforts of all divisions of the Israel Defense Forces, Ya’ari noted that the new recruits are as determined and devoted as ever to the cause of protecting their Jewish brethren.

“When they enter the perimeters of the IDF they abandon all class differences. It is this total unity that gives us the unique strength to overcome our opponents.”

Rabbi Shalom Lipskar is the spiritual leader of The Shul, a magnificent structure which sits on Collins Avenue, and which serves as the Chabad House for the Surfside community.