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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JWV Signs 4+1 Commitment to Hire Military Spouses

On April 2, 2024, the Jewish War Veterans of the USA signed the 4+1 Commitment — a program developed by Blue Star Families, Hiring Our Heroes, and Department of Defense’s Military Spouse Employment Partnership to hire and support military spouses. This program is a voluntary commitment by employers to adopt policies that expand employment and career opportunities for military spouses.

“JWV is committed to supporting veterans and service members, and believes that obligation extends to their families, including caregivers and survivors. In the past four months, two military spouses have joined the JWV team,” said JWV National Commander COL Barry Lischinsky (Retired). “JWV has benefited from their knowledge of the military and veteran communities in carrying out our mission. Both hires underscore our commitment to the 4+1 pledge and in supporting our service members and their spouses.”

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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 the Passing of Senator Joe Lieberman

On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, former U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman passed away at the age of 82. Senator Lieberman made history as the first Jewish vice presidential nominee of a major party when he was selected as Al Gore’s running mate in the 2000 election. He was an observant Jew, a renowned supporter of Israel, and a distinguished public servant who served four terms in the U.S. Senate.

“Senator Lieberman was an inspiration to American Jews. He was dedicated to fighting antisemitism during his time in Congress and as a board member of JWV’s partner the ‘Combat Antisemitism Movement,’” stated JWV National Commander U.S. Colonel Barry Lischinsky (Retired). “Senator Lieberman’s tireless public work, and steadfast commitment to freedom will serve as his legacy and a continued inspiration to Jews everywhere. My sincerest condolences go out to Senator Lieberman’s family including his beloved wife and his children.”

May his memory be a blessing.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) 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, fights antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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VA Secretary McDonough’s Letter of Support and NC Lischinsky’s Reply

The Honorable Denis McDonough wrote to JWV stating that the VA “stands with [us] during this tragic time for the Jewish people in Israel, in the United States and around the world.”

National Commander Barry Lischinsky responded “[their] words demonstrate solidarity and unity and underscore the meaning of We Stand with Israel.”

Both letters can be read in their entirety here:

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JWV’s Statement on Hamas Attack on Israel

Today, in the early morning hours of Shabbat, the terrorist group Hamas (Islamic Resistance Movement) launched an unprovoked and vicious surprise attack on Israel, killing and wounding many Israeli civilian men, women, and children.

“JWV condemns the assault against Israel and emphasizes that terrorist actions are never justified. JWV supports Israel, offers condolences to those who lost loved ones, offers prayers for the wounded and those who have been kidnapped by Hamas,” said National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky, USA (Retired). Lischinsky continued “JWV stands with Israel, its military, and its citizens and calls on our members and all Americans to join us in condemning this terrorist attack.”

JWV will continue to monitor details as events unfold.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) 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, fights antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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