The Jewish community of Irkutsk commemorated the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II. The synagogue hall at the Jewish Community Center was filled with veterans who served on the battle front and on the home front, as well as community members of all ages.
Chief Rabbi of Irkutsk Aaron Wagner read a memorial prayer for those who died in battle, who passed away after the war from wounds incurred in battle and for those veterans who died recently. He recognized the veterans who were in attendance at the commemoration, as well as Irkutsk Region Deputy Premier A.P. Moiseyev, Member of the Legislative Assembly N.I. Dikusarova, and numerous other top officials from the regional and local administrations.
Commemorative medals were awarded to a number of veterans. The medals were crafted of silver by Dmitry Korshenboim, another member of the community. The awards were presented by Rabbi Wagner and the Minister of Social Development and Guardianship of the Irkutsk Oblast, S. Krut.
Everyone was then invited to proceed to the JCC dining room for a lavish dinner featuring musical entertainment of songs from the war years performed on guitar and accordion. The veterans were touched that their efforts and struggles were recognized, especially on the eve of the anniversary of the end of World War II.
For those veterans who are homebound, students from the Jewish Sunday school brought awards directly to them in their homes. The seniors were happy for the visit – not only for the medals but for the company of the young people, as well.