Vets enjoying some rest and relaxation in the Hamptons
Vets enjoying some rest and relaxation in the HamptonsBentzi Sasson

Eleven wounded IDF soldiers and veterans visited the Hamptons last weekend for some rest and recuperation.

The Hamptons visit was part of a nine-day tour of New York City for the wounded soldiers organized by Belev Echad, an organization founded by Rabbi Uriel and Shevy Vigler and a host of supporters from the New York area. Belev Echad aims to show the Jewish people’s gratitude to IDF fighters for putting their lives on the line to protect and defend the Jewish State. Belev Echad also provides support to veterans through programs that offer employment, financial and medical assistance as well as social and educational events.

During their visit to New York, the Israeli veterans saw New York landmarks including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, visited the 9/11 Memorial, and took a trip to the exclusive Hamptons for water sports in Sag Harbor, and tennis and barbecue at the Bridgehampton home of a Belev Echad board member.

“These courageous IDF soldiers risked – and nearly lost – their lives protecting the people and the sacred land of Israel,” said Vigler. “The New York community is immensely grateful for the sacrifices they have made. It has been my pleasure to introduce these heroes to our supporters, and to help them realize just how much we appreciate their service.”

This week, the wounded veterans will get an aerial view of the city from chartered helicopters, take a jet ski tour of the Hudson River, and visit the United Nations headquarters.