AJEX Service 5772 Rabbi Aaron Goldstein 18 November 2011

These times are ones which see many marches. We are likely to see many more in future months as discontent from those who perceive injustice in society take to the streets. The Arab Spring has influenced many around the world to protest by occupying the streets of cities that house significant financial institutions or in warmer climates such as Israel as a means of providing an on-going form of dissent. In Greece and Italy there have been almost daily marches relating to the economy or politics and in the UK rarely a week goes by without a march from students, trades unions or the like.

Marches and parades have also been used, more commonly on an annual basis, by groups wishing to celebrate their identity. On the whole, these affairs seem to attract crowds of onlookers and participants who do not necessarily ‘belong’ to this identity. They can be noisy, colourful affairs featuring great cultural and culinary offerings. I think of the Notting Hill Carnival and the Gay Pride marches that are now truly international phenomena.

Marches and parades have also been incredibly divisive, most notably when they are concerned with battles of the past or conflicts of the present. The Cold War military marches of communist countries, the Koreas, China and others sent a chill down the spine and kept those in the West on edge. They seem somewhat primal. They mark out territory much as an animal might do. The appearance of warheads, synchronised steps highlighting control and the smug salutes of leaders, provided the scent of war and power that characterised the post-war generations.

Northern Ireland still maintains the tradition of Orange marches commemorating the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The accompanying bands and garish orange taunt as much as celebrate. Along with other Protestant or unionist marches such as the Apprentice Boys and the Royal Black Institution they fill a whole season. This tradition is not reserved for one side of the divide. The Republican parades have been as much protests against the United Kingdom and in protest at civil rights violations and bloody incidents, not least Bloody Sunday. I remember the television coverage of paramilitaries appearing out of nowhere, providing a volley of gunfire and then disappearing into the throngs. Around the world, people have used parades to remember injustice and often their doing so, demonises the other and prolongs, if not the physical conflict, the psychological divide.

There has always been one march that is rather unique. That is the remembrance parade of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women that will once more take place this Sunday. It is not unique as a remembrance parade; there is the national Remembrance Day parade in the UK that occurs the week before. There are also remembrance parades commemorating the World Wars in the British Commonwealth and amongst the nations of other protagonists. Separate observances are held in other countries including Israel, to remember those who died in war.

What makes the remembrance parade of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women unique is that it commemorates the contribution of a particular People who fought for their Country. It is marked in the same way and at the same place as the national commemoration but has a particular Jewish service to mark the occasion.

The remembrance parade of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women is unique because of the message that it promotes. Other parades also honour fallen comrades, a sense of national unity and pride, and also the hope that there will be a time when war is not known. Yet the AJEX parade is unique in stating a particular People’s commitment to the life of their country, a commitment to the freedoms they fought for and the freedoms they enjoy. It has rightfully been honoured at the minimum by the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff or his deputy and by the absence of those wishing to press a contrary message.

Whilst the numbers of parading men and women have diminished – last year approximately 750 men and women – their message is still keenly felt. The association with Mitzvah Day has seen an increase in the numbers of supporting on-lookers, especially amongst the grandchildren of those on parade.

The remembrance parade of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women is an incredible example to those young people. It encourages their sense of duty as a citizen of the United Kingdom. It is a manifestation of pride in ones Jewish identity. It is remarkable in its ability to hold both difference and commonality, with dignity. The distinguished way of honouring those who once fought alongside them and of honouring contribution.

Whilst there is a question as to how many years this unique institution can continue, its legacy has now been safe-guarded in the newly rebranded Jewish Military Museum in Hendon. It will provide a significant education to future generations and serve as a constant reminder of the contribution played by unique people, from a special People to the life of their country.

Today, NPLS is proud to honour you, the Stanmore & District Branch incorporating Ruislip and Northwood of the Association of Jewish ex-Servicemen and Women. Each of your contributions was unique and an example to all of us who stand with you in this congregation. We wish you well on this year’s parade and pray that, thanks to your contributions, you may continue to live your lives in peace amongst those for whom you bought peace.

Amen.