In early May, the workers of the Hesed "Astana" visited the veterans of the WWII who were the members of the Community, and congratulated them with the great forthcoming celebration, the Day of Victory, and gave them presents.

All those who went through the awful and unforgettable war were invited to the Hesed’s celebratory lunch. Despite some veterans’ frail condition, all were happy to share their endless memories at the common table. The Front veteran Alexander Torkin and Rear workers Elena Beytsman and Lubov Monastirskaya shared memories of their plight. The lunch began with the traditional ‘Front 100 grams’ in memory of those who did not come back from the war and to the health of those who are still with us. At the table there were sounds of the wartime songs and poetry by the Frontline soldiers.

The coordinator of the Hesed programme "National Traditions" Mihail Kreichman spoke of the contribution made by the Jewish people towards the victory over the fascism and of the countless losses during the WWII. Cheers and tears alternated at the celebratory table. The veterans received flowers and gifts.

Natalia Golovina