Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Passover Observed on Korean Battlefront; Christian Clergymen Join in Seder Ceremony

April 23, 1951
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Jewish men and women in the American armed forces fighting in Korea took part in Passover services in Pusan, Seoul and Taegu, while Protestant and Catholic soldiers joined the Jews in Passover celebrations in field hospitals and wherever the calebrations could be held under battle conditions.

The Passover services were conducted in various sections of the Korean battlefront by four Jewish chaplains with supplies furnished by the National Jewish Welfare Board. Passover services were also held for Jewish servicemen in the U.S. armed forces stationed in Japan.

The four Jewish chaplains who officiated in Korea are Milton Rosen, Garson Goodman, George Vida and Oscar M.. Lifshutz. A Catholic priest and a Protestant chaplain participated in the Seder conducted by Chaplain Lifshutz at one of the field hospitals. Lt. Gen. James A, Van Fleet, commander of the Eighth Army, issued a Passover message of greetings to all the Jews serving under him in the United Nations forces.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement