Keynote Speaker Alon Wald at the Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual Breakfast for Israel in the Capital Region. Photo courtesy of J.N.F.-USA

ALBANY– On Veterans Day, Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, 150 community members, according to organizers, attended the Marriott Albany for Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual Breakfast for Israel in the Capital Region.

Keynote speaker was Alon Wald, head of marketing and operations at Ammunition Hill National Heritage Center in Jerusalem. A veteran Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officer, Wald shared his personal connection to Ammunition Hill, the site of the famous Six-Day War battle that led to the reunification of Jerusalem, and where Wald’s father, Captain Rami Wald was killed in action.

As part of Jewish National Fund-USA’s Circle of Impact, where every project and initiative supports the vision to attract 800,000 new residents to Israel’s north and south, the organization has supported Ammunition Hill’s growth into an international landmark and vital educational museum. Additionally, the site’s Wall of Honor features tributes

to the heroism and courage of Jewish soldiers who, throughout history, have fought in defense of the countries in which they lived.

JANEL MIREL , JNF-USA Capital Region Board Member, LIANE PINCHUK WLADIS , LISA PACKER . Photo courtesy of J.N.F.-USA

“It’s especially meaningful that we’ve gathered on Veterans Day, a day of national remembrance when we honor courage, sacrifice, and those who have stood on the front lines to defend freedom,” said Event Co-chairwoman Dee Levy. “Today, across this country, we remember American veterans of all backgrounds who served in the United

States Armed Forces. And we especially honor Jewish veterans, those who served the United States with pride and valor, and those who have worn the uniform of the Israel Defense Forces to defend our Jewish homeland of Israel.”

ROBIN SOLOMON and Co-chairwoman DEE LEVY of the Jewish National Fund-USA’s annual Breakfast for Israel. Photo courtesy of J.N.F.-USA

Levy was one of several chairpersons for the program. Others were Jim Corwin, Lauren Iselin, Rena Kieval, Karen Lobel, and Keith Roland.