The Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, a non-profit organization committed to supporting Israels soldiers through educational, social and recreational programs, raised $26 million Tuesday night at its national New York gala dinner, a significant jump from last years event, where $23.5 million was pledged. The funds will be used to create academic scholarships to former combat soldiers, provide financial support to lone soldiers who desperately need it, create days off and recreational activities for entire units, and build spaces for recreation and culture on Israels army bases. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both addressed the event via satellite. The Jewish state has the capacity to resist attacks. The Israeli army is the guarantor of our future. Thank you for standing by us, Netanyahu said. This is very important for us to know that we are not alone, said Gantz, who was speaking from an Iron Dome position in southern Israel, where rocket attacks have barraged Israeli cities since last week. The dinner guests were also treated to a video from former captive soldier Gilad Schalit, who thanked American Jews for their "unending support." The gala dinner was attended by FIDF National Director Maj. Gen. (res.) Yitzhak (Jerry) Gershon; FIDF National Chairman Nily Falic; FIDF Chairman Emeritus Arthur Stark; Israel Defense and Armed Forces Attache to the U.S. and Canada Maj. Gen. Gadi Shamni; Founder and President of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein; and Israeli-American fashion designer Elie Tahari. Dr. Monica Crowley, an author and nationally syndicated radio host, served as the master of ceremonies, and Benny Shabtai served as the evenings chairman. Among the stand-out gifts of the evening, Rabbi Eckstein pledged $9.25 million, the Iranian American Jewish Federation offered $500,000, National Young Leadership President Tony Felzen pledged $180,000 on behalf of his family, National Chairman Nily Falic pledged $500,000, and astronaut Col. Paul Lockhart gave $1,000. FIDF has more than 120,000 supporters and 15 offices.
