11 January 2024: Ariel, Israel – Ariel University has announced a historic partnership with The Chaim Herzog Museum of the Jewish Soldier in World War II, marking its first Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the institution. This groundbreaking collaboration signifies a major milestone for both Ariel University and the museum, symbolizing a shared dedication to exploring a vital chapter of Jewish and world history.
“We are immensely proud to announce our collaboration with The Chaim Herzog Museum of the Jewish Soldier in World War II,” said the Rector of Ariel University, Professor Albert Pinhasov. “This partnership represents not just a significant milestone for Ariel University, but also our enduring commitment to shedding light on a crucial chapter of Jewish and world history. By joining forces, we are paving the way for new research and educational endeavors, aimed at deepening future generations’ understanding of the extraordinary bravery and resilience demonstrated by Jewish soldiers during World War II.”
The Chaim Herzog Museum of the Jewish Soldier in World War II, named after the late Chaim Herzog, Israel’s sixth president, is dedicated to the untold stories of Jewish heroism during the Holocaust. The museum honors the 1.5 million Jewish men and women who bravely served in the armed forces of the Allies, the Partisans, and various resistance movements and remembers the 250,000 Jewish soldiers who sacrificed their lives.
“This Memorandum of Understanding with Ariel University marks a historic moment for The Chaim Herzog Museum of the Jewish Soldier in World War II,” stated Brigadier General Zvika Kan-Tor, CEO of the Museum. “By joining forces with an academic institution, we are bridging the gap between historical preservation and academic research. This partnership will enhance our ability to share the remarkable stories of Jewish soldiers during the Holocaust with a broader audience.”
Located in Latrun, the museum stands as a state-of-the-art facility featuring an exhibition center, a study and research center, and an extensive archive. Its unique and comprehensive display presents the war chronologically, emphasizing the pivotal role and participation of Jewish fighters in key battles.
The collaboration between Ariel University and the museum promises to open new avenues for academic and historical research. It will grant students and faculty from Ariel University unparalleled access to the museum’s extensive resources, including archives and exhibits, and will facilitate joint educational programs, research projects, and cultural initiatives.
This partnership is seen as a significant step towards deepening the understanding of Jewish history and heroism during one of the darkest
chapters of the 20th century, serving as a magnet for visitors and researchers worldwide.