Several weeks ago, close to 50,000 participants paraded up 5th Avenue in Manhattan as part of the 59th Israel Day Parade.

The level of achdut, pride and support for Acheinu Bnai Yisrael at the parade was palpable.

Most of the marchers were students, teachers and representatives from local and regional schools - representing all stripe and sizes.

There were many communal leaders who felt that such a Parade would be way too risky or dangerous to undertake, especially in light of recent anti- Israel and antisemetic protests and demonstrations. But, at the end of the day, the Jewish Community Relations Council, a UJA-Federation Agency, stepped up to the plate and sponsored an impresively remarbable event which particiapnts and the public will never ever forget.

Thousands of stdents and faculty from our Jewish day schools, yeshivot and institutions are still taking about this defining experiencem- one which will remain with them forwever.

Equally important was the tremendous Kiddush HaShem and public display of love, support and chizuk for the realtives and families of the hostages and for the welfare of Israel.

It was truly a Mi K'amcha Yisrael moment.