A Tribute to Sephardic Contributions
in World War II
Raquel Hanon Boujo
The Sephardic Heritage Museum recently set up a showcase at the Sephardic Community Center in Brooklyn, New York, featuring a remarkable collection of artifacts from World War II. This exhibit highlights the contributions of Syrian Sephardic servicemen, alongside Egyptian, Persian, Iraqi, and other Jewish soldiers who valiantly served during the war.
Among the treasured items on display are Mickey Kairey’s tefillin bag, hat, war boots, and a heartfelt letter he wrote during his time in service. Also featured are Meyer Cohen’s Army Identification Card, his Persian Gulf Command Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, a wartime meal card, A Short Guide to Syria, and A Pocket Guide to Egypt.
The exhibit includes Jack Maslaton’s Certificate of Merit, awarded for his service in the European Theater Operations of the United States Army. You’ll also find a photograph of Sarah Kairey alongside fellow Red Cross volunteers, and Fortune Tawil Manopala, showcased in her raid warden uniform during the war.
One of the exhibit’s highlights is a four-page record of American Syrian Jewish war veterans. These pages honor many members of our own community, including great-grandparents and grandparents who proudly served and sacrificed during this pivotal time in history.
We invite you to visit the Sephardic Community Center to experience this incredible display of heritage and history. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the legacy of our community’s heroes.
Raquel Hanon Boujo is an accomplished author, humorist and mother from Brooklyn NY.
