JWV’s Statement Commending the U.S. Senate for Rejecting the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to Block Weapons Sales to Israel

The Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America opposed the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to block more than $20 billion of U.S. military aid to Israel. The resolutions were rejected by the Senate on November 20. JWV appreciates the overwhelming vote of 18-79.

“JWV supports Israel’s right to defend itself and commends the Senators for rejecting each of the resolutions considered,” said Gary Ginsburg, JWV National Commander and retired U.S. Army veteran. “Now is the time to stand with Israel. As the United States’ only steadfast ally and only democracy in the Middle East, denying the requisite military aid creates weakness, which only encourages Iran and its proxies, Hamas and Hezbollah, to act with additional attacks on Israel.”

Since the October 7th attacks, Israel has been battling Hamas and Hezbollah, while other Iranian terrorist proxies have launched daily attacks on Israeli cities and Jewish and Arab civilians. Ginsburg noted, “The immediate release of the remaining hostages is paramount, and we must continue to honor the memories of those lost in the brutal attacks of October 7.”

JWV applauds the U.S. Senate’s rejection of the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to block U.S. military aid to Israel. This action strengthens Israel’s security and deterring regional war.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV Elects New National Commander & National Vice Commander

The Jewish War Veterans of the U.S.A. (JWV) is pleased to announce it has elected its 93rd National Commander, Command Sergeant Major Gary Ginsburg, USA, Retired of Rochester, NY and 5th National Vice Commander, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CWO4) Scott P. Stevens, USA, Retired of El Paso, TX during its 129th Annual National Convention in Atlantic City, NJ.

National Commander (NC) Gary Ginsburg has been a life member of both the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) and the National Museum of American Jewish Military History since 2016. Ginsburg is the third generation of his family to serve in the JWV. His grandfather and father were longtime JWV members of Post 131 in Syracuse, NY.

“As National Commander, my focus this year will be on expanding our outreach, reinforcing our veteran advocacy, and building on the JWV’s proud tradition of standing firm against hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism,” Ginsburg stated. “We have a unique opportunity to strengthen our organization and ensure that the voices of all veterans are heard, honored, and supported.”

He held multiple leadership positions including Department Commander for the JWV Department of New York following 33 years as a Soldier in the US Army. He served both in the states and overseas. Gary Ginsburg retired in the rank of Command Sergeant Major culminating with three assignments at brigade and battalion levels of command.

He graduated with honors from the US Army Sergeants Major Academy in 1999 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Syracuse University and a graduate degree (using his GI Bill benefits) from the University of Southern California.

National Vice Commander (NVC) Scott P. Stevens, a Life Member of JWV since 2012, has held a wide range of leadership positions within both JWV and the National Museum of American Jewish Military History (NMAJMH). Nationally, he serves on the JWV National Executive Committee and has been an active member of several key committees, including as an action officer for the Constitution & Bylaws, Membership, and Information Technology Committees. He also chairs the National Convention Credentialing and Registration Committee and leads efforts to update vital organization documents. At the regional level, Stevens served as Department of TALO Commander from 2018 to 2020 and chaired their Membership Committee. Locally, he has held multiple leadership roles in Maurice Kubby Post 749. At NMAJMH, Stevens has served on the Board of Directors and contributed to the Programs and Exhibits Committee.

“I am humbled and honored to serve as the National Vice Commander in support of the longest serving veterans’ organization in the United States. This year, I’m eager to support JWV in their mission to support veterans and combat antisemitism wherever and whenever it occurs,” stated Stevens.

Stevens began his military career in February 1974 as an E-1 and was assigned as a HAWK Missile Battery Launcher Crewman. Over the next twelve years, he was promoted to Sergeant First Class (E-7). At 16 years of service, he applied for Warrant Officer and was assigned as a Patriot Missile Tactician/ Technician. Prior to retirement (30 years,) he served as a Brigade Senior Patriot Missile Tactics and Systems Maintenance Trainer/ Evaluator.

Scott is a past Vice President of the Sun City Chapter of the US Army Warrant Officer Association (1997-1998) and is the President of Congregation Temple Mount Sinai, El Paso Texas 2023-2025.

Scott was born in Cocoa Beach, Florida (1957). Scott is married to Bonny Stevens (1977) and has two sons, and five grandsons.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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Message from JWV on Hurricane Helene and Milton

The Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America extends our heartfelt wish for a speedy and full recovery to the communities impacted by the recent passing of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“Many of our brothers and sisters have faced great hardships over the past few weeks due the natural disasters,” said JWV National Commander Gary Ginsburg. “Florida just experienced a catastrophic weather event with the arrival of Hurricane Milton and the Southeastern states of Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia continue their recovery from Hurricane Helene’s aftermath.”

JWV acknowledges the great work by local, state and federal agencies to bring relief and support as these many communities work through rescue, response and recovery. “These incidents have disrupted lives and upended futures,” Ginsburg said. “For some, these may seem never-ending, but I am deeply hopeful that those caught in these catastrophes, receive the help that is needed now and rebuild their lives through appropriate support, prayer, and faith.”

For Veterans living in the impacted regions, JWV encourages them to seek support as needed from one of the Veterans’ most faithful partners, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

For those requiring support and assistance or seeking additional information, VA Under Secretary of Health Shereef Elnahal shares the website https://www.va.gov/resources/disaster-help/ as a source for Veterans. A telephone line for disaster information for Veterans is also available at 1-800-myva411.

JWV encourages all Veterans to contact the VA as needed and to please pass along this information to fellow Veterans and JWV members. “Speaking of passing along, I have one favor to ask,” Ginsburg added. “If you know someone in the affected areas, please reach out to them. Let them know that relationships we formed in JWV, means that not only we are here, but here for THEM. The JWV leadership team is here. Do not hesitate to contact us if you believe we can be assistance.”

Additional resources and state updates on Hurricane Milton can be found by visiting FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.

JWV wishes all those commemorating Yom Kippur this weekend “a good final sealing” for the Jewish New Year.

“Our New Year may have not started the way we planned,” Ginsburg said. “However, we will survive and persevere as long as we are in this together. L’Shanah Tovah and Best Wishes for a speedy recovery.”

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV Marks the First Anniversary of the Hamas Attack on Israel

Just a few days ago, Jews welcomed the New Year 5785. Only this year is different. “JWV faced the challenges and the horrors of October 7th; the plight of our hostages and the ongoing war weighed heavily on us all,” said JWV National Commander Gary Ginsburg, USA (Retired). “Despite the adversity, JWV stood firmly with Israel, expressing solidarity and unity for Israel and proudly securing the support of 26 other veterans and military organizations.

JWV demand the immediate release and safe return of the hostages. We recall the lives lost and those injured. We and Jews across the United States continue to contend with the troubling rise in antisemitism, and our resilience continues to be tested during these difficult times. “JWV continues to meet the challenges, fighting effectively against antisemitism, helping to unify and empower the American veteran and military community, defending our Jewish values and standing with the State of Israel.”

While we reflect on the anniversary of October 7, JWV calls on its members and all Americans to have a renewed spirit. May the year 5785 be rewarding and sweet, filled with health and blessings for all everywhere.

Shana Tova.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV’s Statement on the Medal of Honor and Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Jewish War Veterans of the USA wishes to address recent discussions in the news about the Medal of Honor and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. “The Medal of Honor is our nation’s highest military award, recognizing extraordinary acts of valor, bravery and heroism in combat during military service,” said JWV National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired).

Colonel Lischinsky added, “It is essential that we honor the true significance of this Medal. All recipients, including the 18 Jewish Medal of Honor awardees, demonstrated remarkable courage and made profound sacrifices beyond the call of duty, often making the ultimate sacrifice.”

While the Presidential Medal of Freedom is a prestigious civilian honor for major contributions to our country or global affairs, it is important to remember that it differs significantly from military awards. Comparing civilian achievements to the sacrifices made by our military and veterans does not reflect the true nature of these honors.

We believe it is crucial for everyone to understand the differences between these two awards. Respecting the sacrifices of our veterans and upholding the integrity of our national honors is something we should all strive for.

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About the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America

Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans of the USA (JWV) has been the premier voice for Jewish service members and veterans in the U.S. JWV advocates for the rights and benefits of all service members, continues the fight against antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel, celebrating the honorable and heroic service of Jewish men and women in the U.S. military.

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JWV’s Statement On U.S. Shipment Arms to Israel

The Jewish War Veterans of the USA (JWV) strongly objects to the U.S. Government’s decision to withhold weapons from the Congressionally passed package and planned shipment to Israel. “The United States must stand with and support the only democratic ally in the region.  Withholding weapons from the package sends the wrong message at this sensitive time and conflicts with the U.S. claim of our ironclad commitment to Israel,” said JWV National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired).

“Congress’s bipartisan and supermajority passage should proceed without delay. The U.S. should not undermine Israel’s efforts to defeat Hamas. Withholding the weapons also delays the release of all hostages, including Americans, and could potentially prolong the war.” JWV calls on all government officials to provide all weapons in the package to Israel without delay.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America

Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV’s Statement On University Protests and Safety of Jewish Students on Campuses Across the Nation

The Jewish War Veterans of the USA denounces the antisemitic protests on the campuses of universities across the United States in the strongest way. “Protests are unlawful when they threaten and target the lives of others. We demand the respective University leadership prevent or shut down the encampments, discipline harassers, protect the safety of not only Jewish students but all students. All universities are obligated to restore the campus to a safe environment for all students and faculty,” said JWV National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired).

“JWV has always stood up to hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism wherever and whenever it occurs as in the past, we will not remain silent now or in the future. University leadership must be accountable to provide a safe and secure environment for their Jewish students, faculty, and staff. We call on leadership to put an end to the rising tensions on campus and restore civility.”

JWV remains gravely concerned that similar protests have begun at multiple universities across the country. Commander Lischinsky continued, “While JWV recognizes the First Amendment provides for freedom of speech, hatred and violence are never justified. Once the speech targets those of a specific ancestry and incites violence, the University has a responsibility to prevent and eliminate that behavior from the campus community.”

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV Statement On Columbia University and Safety of Jewish Students on Campus

The Jewish War Veterans of the USA denounces the antisemitic protests on the campus of Columbia University in the strongest way. “Protests are unlawful when they threaten the lives of others. We demand the University leadership shut down the encampment, discipline harassers, protect the safety of not only Jewish students but all students. Columbia University is obligated to restore the campus to a safe environment for all students and faculty,” said JWV National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired).

“JWV has always stood up to hatred, bigotry, and antisemitism wherever and whenever it occurs as in the past, we will not remain silent now or in the future. University leadership must be accountable to provide a safe and secure environment for their Jewish students. We call on leadership to put an end to the rising tensions on campus and restore civility.”

JWV remains gravely concerned that similar protests have begun at multiple universities across the country. Commander Lischinsky continued, “While JWV recognizes the First Amendment provides for freedom of speech, hatred and violence are never justified. Once the speech targets those of a specific ancestry and incites violence, the University has a responsibility to prevent and eliminate that behavior from the campus community.”

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV Partners with the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism

The Jewish War Veterans of the USA (JWV) is reaffirming its commitment in joining the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS) as an official partner of #StandUpToJewishHate. This national campaign encourages all Americans to combat antisemitism by using the #🟦 as a symbol of unifying support to combat antisemitism. Jews make up only 2.4% of the American population[1], yet are the victims of 55% of religious-based hate crimes[2]. This alarming statistic is the cornerstone of this new campaign created by Robert K. Kraft and his family. JWV joins the Foundation and numerous other partnered organizations including the Anti-Defamation League, Hillel International, Urban League, The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs, National Governors Association, and the League of Women Voters to stand up to Jewish hate.

Through the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism established 🟦, the Blue Square emoji, as a simple, but powerful symbol of solidarity and support for the Jewish community. The 🟦 is shared across the country on TV screens, billboards, and social media feeds. The initial roll-out included popular NBC shows such as The Voice, The Kelly Clarkson Show , and TODAY with an introduction to the 🟦 and a discussion on antisemitism.

“The #StandUpToJewishHate campaign is designed to raise awareness for the fight against antisemitism, specifically among non-Jewish audiences and to help all Americans understand that there is a role for each of us to play in combating a problem that is unfortunately all too prevalent in communities across the country today,” said Robert K. Kraft, Founder of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. “We must stand up and take action against the rise of all hate and I hope everyone will post and share the Blue Square to show their support in this fight.”

Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women have served and continue to serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members, veterans, and their families. We combat against antisemitism and continue to support the State of Israel.

JWV National Commander, Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired) stated “As the only Jewish Veterans Service Organization, JWV opposes all forms of hatred, discrimination and bigotry but is especially outspoken on antisemitism. Our mission of combating antisemitism becomes even more important and must remain at the forefront of our actions.”

“As instances of antisemitism continue to rise across the country, JWV asks all Americans to be vigilant, learn, and help educate our fellow citizens about antisemitism. JWV is doing its part by coalition building with organizations like Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (#🟦) and others across the Nation. We are partnering with StandWithUs to address antisemitism at colleges and universities.”

JWV stands ready to be a resource for individuals and organizations in helping to educate Americans. We believe that education is the key to reducing antisemitic actions and incidents in America and around the world.

JWV encourages our members and our allied partners to #StandUpToJewishHate in a number of ways:

  1. Post and share 🟦 – an emoji already available on most smartphones – as a hashtag across social media alongside a message of support for the Jewish community and commitment to stand up to Jewish hate.
  2. Activate your network by making them aware of the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign and how they can use 🟦 as a powerful symbol of solidarity with the Jewish community.
  3. Tell your story to followers on social media, describing an instance where you’ve either encountered antisemitism and how it affected you or witnessed someone standing up against hatred towards Jews.
  4. Visit www.StandUpToJewishHate.org and subscribe to the Foundation’s ”From the Command Center” e-newsletter to keep up to date on how antisemitism is spreading online, learn ways to identify and report it, and find helpful tools and resources around antisemitism.
  5. Follow the #StandUpToJewishHate campaign at @StandUpToJewishHate on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to keep up to date with 🟦 and learn more about antisemitism.
  6. Report antisemitism immediately when you see it, and if it is an emergency, dial 911. You can learn more about how best to report antisemitism by visiting www.StandUpToJewishHate.org.

[1] “Jewish Americans in 2020,” Pew Research Center, May 21, 2021, https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2021/05/11/the-size-of-the-u-s-jewish-population/

[2] FBI data released in October 2023, covering crimes reported in 2022, shows that about 55% of all religion-based hate crimes were driven by anti-Jewish bias.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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JWV Statement on Attack by Iran on Israel

On Saturday, April 13, 2024, Iran launched hundreds of deadly drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles in an attack on Israel. Iran’s proxies, Hezbollah, the Houthis, Hamas, joined in the attack. Missiles were launched toward Israel from multiple geographic locations, Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.

Thankfully, Israel, and its allied partners in the US, UK, Jordan, and France, defended against this unprecedented, direct attack. Ninety-nine (99) percent of all the drones and missiles were intercepted, with the only reported hit causing minor damage to an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) base.

“JWV condemns the actions of Iran and their proxies in the strongest possible way and stands in solidarity with Israel and the allied partners to defend it borders and its citizens,” said JWV National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky, (Retired). “JWV deeply appreciates the efforts of the IDF, its allies, and all that stand against the evil of Iran’s actions in seeking to destroy the nation state of Israel.”

 Am Yisrael Chai

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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