Campus Tour Testimonials

“Sgt. Anthony offered a compelling view of his time in the Israeli military, candidly sharing the difficult responsibilities thrust upon the Israeli youth. [Associate lecturer] Captain Matan’s unique perspective as a commanding officer was both enlightening and intriguing and provided a keen view into the high ethical standards of the IDF. Their first-hand accounts... gave us a much needed, honest account of the difficulties faced by the army.

Their dialogue with the audience was itself immensely helpful, as they proved quite willing to tackle hard questions from a variety of angles.

As speakers and as sources of information on the conflict they are highly recommended.”
Josh Geller, President

“Simply grounding. Sgt. Anthony was absolutely incredible in his testimony about his experiences in the Israeli army. As a student at Columbia University I was proud. The way [Sgt.] Anthony presented the facts, simple truths that too often get swept away in the raging tide of media bias, is unparalleled.

He gave a life-like account of what it is, what it means to be a soldier in the IDF; to defend Israel from those who seek her destruction.

On behalf of every peace-seeking and dedicated student at this university, I thank you for coming and telling your story.”

Eric Schorr, Director of public relations

“Words simply cannot begin to describe Benjamin Anthony, and Our Soldiers Speak. Having been in contact with him through e-mail for months, I was well aware of his class and professional nature. What I did not know, however, is just how engaging his speech would be, how powerful his voice would be, and how humble his heart would be....

To say Benjamin is phenomenal is an understatement, and to say his message is simply important would belittle it. He is an eloquent speaker with full command of the English language, able to articulate the toughest of thoughts, emotions and realities so we may understand, and fully absorb his vital message. He speaks from the bottom of his heart, painting a picture every human being can relate to regardless of race, religion or political affiliation. His vivid, visual diction evokes the deepest of emotions, bringing both tears and laughter to his audience. When Benjamin speaks, one can hear a pin drop, as the audience focuses on his every word. Benjamin Anthony is without a doubt the future of Israel's fight to survive, not only for his actions while in uniform, but more so, for his words and message...”

Shanel Melamed

“I had the opportunity to hear Sgt. Anthony speak at Emory University. His presentation was direct and sincere. No slideshows or slick marketing material, but an inside view of the responsibilities, sacrifices, and challenges of an ordinary IDF soldier. He explained the tremendous pressure under which the citizens of Israel live and the extraordinary measures taken by the IDF to manage the conflict in a civilized manner. His anecdotal references portray a personal, human view of the men and women in the IDF that is refreshingly illuminating and provides a compelling rebuttal to the bias typically found in mainstream media. Sgt. Anthony's integrity and credibility are immediately apparent to the audience. He delivers a factual, honest message that deserves the attention of anyone interested in hearing an accurate, first-hand account of frontline realities in the Middle East.”

DPD

“Sergeant Benjamin Anthony is a true fighter for a strong cause, Israel. There are four terms that sum up his presentation: passion, moving, controversial, hopeful. Benjamin is an extremely passionate soldier for the cause he is fighting for. The lecture itself was moving.... and took everyone from the room into the battlefield. Yes, through Benjamin's words we were able to see what his eyes saw. Some of the issues were obviously controversial since the nature of the event is a military operation. ....Lastly, there was a sense of hope at the end of the lecture. The hope that one day, we can create peace in the Middle East and so there would be no casualties on either side.

Lastly, I would highly encourage any group, not only pro-Israel groups, to invite, hear, and learn from this extraordinary individual who saw first-hand what an Israeli soldier has to deal with on a regular basis.”

Nim Nahum

“Dear Sgt. Anthony, I want to thank you so much for your important, moving and highly educational presentation for Tufts Hillel. I thought that the personal experience and information that you shared, and the manner in which you presented the ethical dimensions of urban combat are so important for our students, and the world, to hear... the credibility of having a solider speak is so much more compelling. I also have to add, that at a campus like Tufts, where we have made Jewish/Muslim and Israeli/Arab dialogue an important part of our programming to create a constructive rather than hostile atmosphere on campus, you did a wonderful job addressing the questions and statements from the student from Lebanon. You were very clear and strong in your arguments but very open and respectful at the same time. Many Arab students who come from abroad to campuses in the United States have simply never had the opportunity to speak with an Israeli, let alone a soldier. When we put a human face on this conflict, we open the possibility for dialogue. While this might not solve the conflict, it changes the atmosphere of the debate on campus and allows us to do serious education rather than combat propaganda. Again, thank you.”

Rabbi Jeffrey Summit

“It is with great honour that I attended the Our Soldiers Speak seminar hosted by Sgt. Anthony. As an ROTC cadet I can’t stress enough to my peers, my leaders, my subordinates to experience what an IDF Sergeant or any foreign soldier must endure for his country and beliefs. Acting as the last barrier between the war zone and home is one of the most honourable reasons to serve and to stand up for justice, for peace, for security.

The general population is aware of the a conflict [involving Israel] but fail to realise that it is someone’s home where childhood memories are made.

Sgt. Anthony’s account opened my eyes to what a and how an IDF soldier must endure... the attacks from an invisible enemy.

I highly recommend Our Soldiers Speak to ROTC groups throughout the USA. They must hear Sgt. Anthony.”

Steven Rehorn

“A room full of more than fifty students in the midst of midterms sat enthralled by Sgt. Anthony’s well articulated and compelling account of his army service.

To gain a firsthand account is invaluable when one is also stormed with counter information through the media.... Sgt. Anthony brought us into the moments of his service that were the most painful.

I think that the Brandeis campus has benefitted greatly from his courage and openness with us.

I am thankful for this truthful glimpse into his life – one that I will hold onto as untruthful attacks are made on the Israel defense forces.”

Heddy Ben-Atar

“Benjamin was without a doubt the most compelling speaker I have ever heard on a college campus – on any subject.

His ability to speak effectively, passionately and with the utmost sincerity is a valuable asset to the [PR] arsenal that should not go unappreciated. His speech reignited a fire in my own heart, a fire that has been waiting far too long for such fuel.

I urge everyone who really wants to win the fight for Israel’s image abroad, Jews and non-Jews alike, to invite Benjamin to come speak by them.”

ZOA president

“I have seen many Israeli soldiers speak about their experiences serving in the IDF. Mr. Anthony's talk was by far the best delivered that I have attended. He spoke patiently and succinctly about his time in the IDF. I highly recommend bringing him to your community - everyone should hear what he has to say.”

Jason Pressberg

“Benjamin Anthony is an unbelievable speaker in that you know that he is passionate about his subject matter from the minute he begins speaking. His determination to teach the world the truth about the IDF and its morality is certainly praiseworthy. He not only has a talent of keeping his audience interested through emotional and thought provoking stories, but his ability to answer questions is uncanny. He has an ability to very quickly address people's questions in a direct and interesting manner. Having him speak is an opportunity that should not be missed!”

Aviva Irwin

“Benjamin is truly a talented orator; respectful, well-spoken, and highly engaging. His stories were expertly articulated to maximize their impact. He tactfully and respectfully answered all questions even stressing that the tougher questions, clearly challenging Israeli motives and actions, were valid. Benjamin represented Israel incredibly well, and without a doubt, provided a portrait of a model soldier. He certainly achieved the goal of humanizing IDF soldiers, attesting to their morality and the immense responsibility placed on such young men and women. Attendants were captivated by his first hand perspective... from the moment he started speaking until the end of his presentation. This event countered negative media attention, while fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, where anyone would feel comfortable asking questions, regardless of political affiliations.”

Andrew Howitz

“I was beyond impressed with Sgt. Anthony's recent presentation at the University of Georgia. His talk was informative and articulate and he truly meant it when he said he would answer any and every question, no matter the number of questions or length of the answers. At all times, he spoke with poise and conviction, and answered challenging questions thoughtfully, thoroughly and patiently. Sgt. Anthony welcomed questions raising controversial issues as an opportunity to shed light on the truth, and that, I believe, is what makes his efforts so vital to Israel— his deep concern to spread the truth about the IDF to an uninformed or misinformed public in addition to Israel supporters. Sgt. Anthony is a captivating and compelling speaker; do not miss any opportunity to hear him.”

Lily Feinberg

“I would like to sincerely thank you and your Captain for your very informative and touching presentation.

I have never seen my students so silent during a presentation. They followed your every word. You handled such a sensitive topic with honour and dignity.

You gave a human face to “the Israeli soldier:” I cannot express how important I think it is for you to speak out about your experiences in the IDF.

We all need to hear what you have to say. You are always welcome to speak at our school.

Thank you again for your touching words.”

Julie Feinman

“Sgt. Anthony and Captain Matan brought their inspirational and persuasive presentation to the small college where I teach in the Bronx. Most of our students are earning degrees in business, with the explicit goal of making money. Few are concerned with domestic politics, let alone international issues. It was for that express reason that I invited “Our Soldiers Speak” to lecture. As anticipated, the speakers were engaging, emphatic, passionate, intelligent, and humble. They introduced a world foreign, and yet, somehow familiar. They spoke of our common humanity, of universal values, of conditions we all face. The Q&A component of the presentation was particularly telling of how well connected the students felt to the subject and the speakers. And judging from the types of questions asked, it's clear the message was heard. Sgt. Anthony and Captain Matan left the lucky students who had the unique opportunity to experience their presentation with a sense of appreciation and understanding.”

Marie Loftus

“Hillel of Northern NJ was privileged to host Benjamin Anthony to speak at our four campuses: Bergen Community College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Ramapo College of NJ and William Paterson University.

Our students were thoroughly engaged by Benjamin’s talk. Many commented that he was among the best speakers that they had heard. They were both moved and inspired. Ben’s mastery of English as well as his British accent were most memorable.

The presentation was completely apolitical but meaningful to all who attended. For many, this was the first time they spoke with an Israeli soldier and heard things from that perspective. He addressed both current and past headlines.

The Q&A was also well received and Benjamin made a point to make sure the students’ questions were thoroughly answered. He also made personal connections with many students after the event.

We were so impressed, that not only have we arranged for Benjamin to speak at other venues, we are planning to bring him back next semester.”

Rabbi Ely Allen, Director