650 San Diego leaders gather for FIDF benefit

Some 650 Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) supporters from the San Diego community gathered on Saturday, Nov. 9, for the FIDF San Diego 9th Annual Gala, “A Night of Heroes,” at the Hilton Bayfront to salute Israel’s brave men and women in uniform and contribute to the organization’s well-being and educational programs for Israeli soldiers.

The gala honored FIDF supporters Sydney and Denise Selati of San Diego. FIDF also honored all Holocaust survivors in the San Diego area at the event.

A delegation of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers participated in the gala, including First Lt. Jerusalem, an Ethiopian-Israeli soldier whose visual disability did not stop her from becoming a volunteer officer in the IDF Northern Command; Cpl. Eliana of New York, a Lone Soldier -- one who voluntarily enlists in the IDF without immediate family in Israel – and search and rescue instructor who joined the IDF because of her family’s religious background and Zionist values; Staff Sgt. E., who in 2017 helped defend a family from a terror attack at the settlement Halamish (Neveh Tzuf), by shooting and neutralizing the attacker; and First Lt. N, born and raised in a Druze family, who serves in a Paratroopers special unit, despite his parents’ opposition.

Cpl. Eden, an IDF Musical Ensemble singer and winner of “The X Factor” Israel reality TV show, performed at the event.

Distinguished guests also included FIDF San Diego Chapter Chairman Alan Katz; FIDF San Diego Chapter Vice Chairman and Chairman Emeritus Norman Smith; FIDF San Diego Board Member Nancie Vann; FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir; FIDF San Diego Executive Director Oz Laniado.

“We are so honored to have hosted this incredible event, which each year gives our supporters the opportunity to hear directly from the brave men and women who protect Israel – and Jews worldwide,” said Laniado. “This year, it was our great pleasure to honor Sydney and Denise Selati, valued members of our community who are deeply committed to Israel and its soldiers.”