Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

My father Alex was born as the world died. Through his young and impressionable eyes, he witnessed a world imploding.

My father's life story is a testament to resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Born into a family that had already weathered through multiple tragedies, including World War I, the Russian Revolution, and Pogroms, his family's journey was one of survival and rebuilding.

Jewish pogroms in Russia refer to the organized violent attacks against Jewish communities that took place during various periods in Russian history. These pogroms were primarily carried out by non-Jewish individuals, incited by anti-Semitic sentiments. In those events his father lost his family twice and they were forced to flee across the border into China, finally settling in Shanghai and later in 1932 in Hong Kong.

Escaping to China, they embarked on a journey to rebuild their lives under British rule. This move likely came with its own set of challenges, but my family's determination pushed them forward. The decision to eventually move to Hong Kong demonstrates their courage to seek better opportunities and stability.

However, even in the search for peace, World War II cast its shadow. The war followed them, presenting a new set of trials. My father's enlisted in the Australian paratroopers, fighting against the Japanese, this reflected not only his personal strength but also his commitment to fighting for justice and freedom. His decision to serve in the face of the very forces that had disrupted his family's life is a true testament to his character.

My family's history is a reminder of the interconnectedness of global events and how they can impact individual lives. It's a story of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit to overcome even the most challenging circumstances. My father's journey from the struggles of his early years to his service in the Australian army paints a picture of a remarkable individual who carried the weight of his family's history while forging his own path in the world.

Pearl Harbor happened in December of 1941 and the Japanese invaded Hong Kong, My Grandfather was taken prisoner of war and interred in Stanly Concentration Camp in Hong Kong. (He died later from Malnutrition).

My father who was at the time of pearl harbor in New Zealand, enlisted in the Australian Army and spent the war fighting the Japanese in New Guinee and in Battle of Borneo. After the battle what was left of the paratroopers were supposed to take part in an attack on the Japanese to free Australian prisoners of war, but they were taken on a death march and ultimately executed so my father was saved.

 He never really recovered from the war, my wife Jenny who is a social worker and worked with holocaust survivors said that my father was just like one. He never talked about his experiences and if asked said “let sleeping dogs lie”.

After the war he returned to Hong Kong and met my mother and they got married and started a family.

He immigrated to Israel in 1973 and died in Israel in 1994.

He was a survivor, a quiet soul, and above all, a loving man who cherished his family. His journey through the horrors of World War II shaped him into a person of immense strength, resilience, and compassion. As we reflect upon his life, let us celebrate the indomitable spirit that guided him through the darkest times.

My father was a living testament to the triumph of the human spirit. Born into a world torn apart by conflict, he witnessed unimaginable atrocities. Yet, he emerged from the shadows of war with an unwavering determination to build a better future for himself and his loved ones. He carried the scars of his past but never allowed them to define him. Instead, he dedicated his life to fostering love, unity, and the preservation of family values.

He was a quiet man, one who possessed a wisdom that transcended words. His actions spoke louder than any spoken verse. He had an incredible ability to listen, to observe, and to understand the world around him. While others may have been quick to speak, he chose to listen, offering guidance and support when needed most. His silent strength was a constant pillar in our lives, grounding us during times of turbulence and uncertainty.

My father's legacy lives on within each one of us. We carry his values, his strength, and his love in our hearts. As we navigate the journey of life without his physical presence, we must remember the lessons he taught us. Let us honor him by embracing his quiet strength, by nurturing our bonds as a family, and by cherishing the moments we have together.