Campus Tour
Please view our campus map and click on the university / college of your choice to read a review of the Our Soldiers Speak Seminar.
- Harvard University (MA)
Daina, University Student
- Yale College (CT)
Josh, Student, President, Yale Friends of Israel
- Dartmouth College (NH)
Alexander, Medical School Student
- University of Pennsylvania (PA)
Zack, University Student
- Stanford University (CA)
Jeremy, University Student
- Columbia University (NY)
Eric, Student, President, LIONPAC
- University of California, Berkeley (CA)
Brian, University Student
- Hampshire College (MA)
Samantha, University Student
- Drexel University (PA)
Shoshana, University Student
- George Washington University (DC)
Ava, University Student
- George Mason University (VA)
Michaela Cohen
- Elon University (NC)
Ron, University Student
- University of Cincinnati (OH)
Lauren, University Student
- University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign (IL)
Julie, University student
- Okalhoma University (OK)
Eric, University Student
- UCSB (CA)
Abraham, University Student
- University of Pittsburgh (PA)
Jennifer, University Student
- UC Davis, (CA)
Gabriella, University Student
- American University (DC)
Alexandra, University Student
- Duke University (NC)
Katrina, University Student
- Anna, University Student
- Indiana University (IN)
Benjamin, University Student
- Miami University of Ohio (OH)
Matthew, University Student
Student of Christian Faith
- Ohio State University (OH)
Chad, University Student
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- Rice University (TX)
Rosalie, University Student
- Saint Louis University (MO)
Anna, University Student
- Smith College (MA)
Daniele, University Student
- Amherst College (MA)
Samantha, University Student
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (IL)
Ilan, University Student
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (NC)
Adam, University Student
- Binghamton University (NY)
Teddy, Student,
President, Binghamton University Zionist Organization
(BUZO)
- University of Southern California (CA)
Shanel, Student, President, SCSI
- UCLA (CA)
Nim, Student
- Emory University (GA)
D.P.D., Audience Member
- Tufts University (MA)
Rabbi Jeffrey Summit, Chaplain
- Brandeis University (MA)
Heddy, Student
- University of Maryland (MD)
Dov, Student, ZOA President
- Northeastern University (MA)
Jason, Student Chaplain
- UMASS, Amherst (MA)
Andrew, Student
- University of Georgia (GA)
Lily, Student
- Long Island University (NY)
Julie, Student Co-ordinator
- Monroe College, (NY)
Marie Loftus, Teacher
- Hillel of Northern New Jersey (NJ)
Rabbi Ely Allen, Chaplain
- University of Ottawa (ON, Canada)
Benjamin Singer, Former Israel Advocacy Coordinator
- Wilfrid Laurier University (ON, Canada)
Brian, University Student
- York University (ON)
Emily, University Student
- University of Western Ontario (ON, Canada)
Avi Braemer, Israel on Campus Program Director
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I just wanted to email you to thank you again for your wonderful lecture at American University on Wednesday. I really appreciate you coming out here to enlighten our students on the soldier's perspective.
I know it was received really well by the attending students. I'm so happy that your presentation resonated with so many....Good luck on the rest of your tour..!
Our Soldiers Speak is a key step to bringing a more clear and comprehensive understanding of Israel and the IDF to Dartmouth. By telling us of the universal values and intimate perspectives shared by the soldiers of the IDF, we left the talk knowing that...the IDF is at its core an exceptionally just and humane army. Sgt. Anthony's account of his service in the IDF not only reinforced this concept, but convinced me and hopefully others that we can be proud of being advocates for Israel, and we must be strong and unyielding in defending Israel in the PR war...Benjamin and Our Soldiers Speak are a key piece in rallying diaspora Jews and all Israel supporters to continue the struggle...
Thank you for speaking at Duke University, your words were incredibly inspiring and profound, but even more your message to us was strong and powerful....While I have had much exposure to Israel, most of my peers have not. I believe the way you addressed your presentation not only humanizing the IDF soldiers but urging us to do our part here in America is an essential message to my generation....Your words were clearly spoken with a passion and understanding for the current situation, and in my opinion your message was successfully relayed to our audience....I wish you all the best of luck with your travels in America and back at home in Israel.
Benjamin Anthony's speech at Harvard was informed and passionate. While he has the capacity to rivet and enrich all audiences, his knowledge and professionalism allow him the opportunity to be a reasonable voice on even contentious campuses. As we witnessed during the question and answer period, his factual account and confidence under pressure supported him in responding calmly to disparate perspectives. I highly encourage every community, regardless of its political climate, to provide Benjamin Anthony with a platform to speak. I certainly appreciate the privilege to have learned from him.
As an active member of Harvard Students for Israel, I've heard too many speakers to count. However, the one speaker who got my non-Jewish friends (whom I dragged to this event) to ask to be more involved in pro-Israeli activism was Benjamin Anthony from Our Soldiers Speak. His talk was candid, informative....
He is an extremely skilled debater and the way he dealt with detractors was amazing to watch...
His message is something American Jews must hear, for often they judge Israel based on what the media reports, without hearing the true story. Anyone who does not get to hear Benjamin is missing out on the most eloquent defense of the IDF that I have ever heard.
Dear Benjamin,
I really want to thank you again for the work you are doing. In all honesty I have never met someone who speaks with such personal conviction. Perhaps my favorite part about your talk (and I believe the most successful) is your ability to get people to question...If nothing else, you allow people to come to their own conclusions about Israel and that, in itself, is truly extraordinary.
Please, on behalf of myself and all of the Jewish leaders at IU, continue to do the work you are doing.
I want to first begin by thanking you for your service and your dedication to defending the truth. Secondly, your recent discussion at Miami University was absolutely one of the best events that Miami Students for Israel (MSI) has held that I have been a part of...
To the sponsors of Our Soldiers Speak:
Sgt. Benjamin Anthony gave a moving lecture about the role of ethics in the IDF. He provided us a glimpse of the day to day internal struggles facing Israel's brave young men and women in the IDF. In doing so, he effectively debunked many of the myths that are too often heard in the mainstream media.
Sgt. Anthony finished strong with a Q&A. During which, he gladly fielded questions from members of the opposition groups on the campus. Sgt. Anthony clearly left a favorable impression with them as he answered every single one of their inquiries in a cool-headed and articulate manner. He is doing a great service to both the IDF and Israel and I enthusiastically endorse his lecture.
Yesterday, Sgt. Anthony came to Rice University to speak. Â His talk was fascinating and moving....I believe that his talk was valuable, and I hope you continue to support the good work that his organization does.
Sgt. Benjamin Anthony is an enthralling and captivating speaker. He doesn't just give an standard generic speech about the dangers that Israel faces on a daily basis. Instead he delivers a presentation that is fully based on his own personal experiences. His eye opening stories send a powerful message of the humanity and humility of Israeli Soldiers. This presentation is a must see, and I would bring him to campus again in the future!
Sgt. Anthony's talk last night was absolutely our most successful events so far, from several perspectives. He affected us all. I am still recieving messages and texts from atendees who feel differently today (with regards to their Judaism and Israel) than they did two days ago. I know I've transformed since last night.
Benjamin was an incredible speaker; he spoke with passion and eloquence, with honesty and dignity. He held the audience's attention with ease. At the conclusion of his speech, audience members asked questions for well over an hour; he answered them all thoughtfully, comprehensively, and graciously.
Sgt. Benjamin Anthony did a wonderful job at his talk...and I believe wholeheartedly that he deserves your support.
Sgt. Benjamin Anthony tells a story not often heard on college campuses, a story about the humans behind the uniforms. This message is important for every student to hear, and is especially pertinent given the amount of demonization of the Israeli soldier in the media today. Mr. Anthony gets past the politics, past the stereotypes, and past the misconceptions. He explains what it's really like on the front lines from the perspective of someone who was actually there.
Sergeant Anthony taught me more about Israel and her conflicts in a short, personal account than I have learned from numerous Israel activism speakers, courses, and educational seminars over the last several years.
...A master of eloquence and fact-based dialogue, Benjamin had all in attendance entranced and inspired. Words cannot adequately describe the immense value of bringing Benjamin in to speak.
He respectfully and thoroughly responded to any questions with a calm disposition that most would struggle to maintain, much less in the face of such direct and provocative opposition. It was an honor to hear him speak, and I hope that others will take advantage of the gift he offers.
My name is Adam Yosim and I attended your Our Soldiers Speak talk at UNC Chapel Hill...Most of the Middle East talks/programs I have been to have been approached from the macro level....It was refreshing to view this tumultuous conflict from the personal lens of your experiences as an IDF soldier. Once again, I would like to thank you for what you continue to do and it was a pleasure to listen to you speak.
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.
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.
Benjamin Anthony is one of the most compelling Israel- related speakers. He has a no-nonsense approach to Israel advocacy and is not afraid of facing the opposition; to the contrary, he encourages it. He speaks for a brief time about his personal experiences as an IDF soldier, and proceeds to field questions, without limit. He answered every question that came his way, without hesitation and in a respectful and engaging manner. Benjamin encouraged dialogue and did not dismiss or avoid even the most difficult of questions. He spoke twice in as many days and all attendees, regardless of political affiliation, were captivated by his eloquence, honesty and personal experience. I wholeheartedly recommend Benjamin Anthony as a guest speaker on college campuses.
Words simply cannot 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...
....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...
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....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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"It is difficult to be a pro-Israel student in Ottawa. A combination of hostility on campus and apathy from fellow students might lead one to feel isolated and disenfranchised. However, when Sgt. Benjamin Anthony of Our Soldiers Speak came to speak at our Hillel Ottawa Shabbat Dinner, the atmosphere was noticeably different. The room was filled to capacity and you could hear a pin drop as Sgt. Anthony described his service in the IDF; the pain, the joys and the challenges of being a part of the most ethical army in the world.
Recognizing that Israel and the Jewish people are fighting a war not only against physical aggression, but also against demonization and delegitimization in the media and on campus, Sgt. Anthony is exactly what we need. His well-spoken, passionate style of delivery inspires students while giving them the information they need to stand up proudly for Israel on campus."
"Benjamin Anthony's address to Wilfrid Laurier University represented the most effective and successful presentation I have witnessed in my three years at university. As an IDF reserve soldier, he provided an invaluable and unique perspective that many attendees had never previously considered. Combating the demonization that is all too commonplace in the media and on university campuses, Benjamin communicated the humanity of Israeli soldiers and the impossible situations they face. He spoke passionately and professionally, maintaining his calm even when dealing with the most uneducated and insensitive comments from anti-Israel advocates. This unwavering composure was key in driving home his points and strengthening his message. His respectful demeanour ultimately led to an incident-free event where everyone present learned a great deal, regardless of their political beliefs. I highly recommend Benjamin to anyone wishing to gain fresh and compelling insight into the Israeli-Arab conflict."
Benjamin Anthony spoke at York University to a group of 150 students. It was a really educational, enlightening and important talk, giving Toronto students a better understanding of the real Israel.
Frequently exposed to anti-Israel media and bias academia, these students were given the opportunity to hear from a passionate, intelligent and informative speaker. Sgt. Anthony was well-spoken and composed; he answered difficult questions with clarity and ease. In addition to advocating directly for Israel on a hostile and aggressive University campus, Sgt. Anthony also gave pro-Israel attendees the tools and confidence to effectively combat anti-Semitism they often face on campus.
On behalf of myself, London Jewish Campus Services, and all the Jewish and pro-Israel students at Western University....I want you to know that the night you spoke became a rallying point for our students. Passionate students started to become involved, people were asking questions. It truly rallied everyone together.
This year we had a very successful counter offensive to Israel Apartheid Week here at Western. This was due in large part to the passion of our students, who were without a doubt stirred up because of your words and because of the response your words brought to campus. Israel on Campus at Western is in a better place today than we were before. Our students are ready to continue the amazing fight we have put forward since January, and I am excited to see it continue into the next school year.
I would like to extend a warm invitation for you to return to Western next year, so you may see for yourself the change in attitude and behaviour of the pro-Israel students here.
The student's passions have now matched that of the staff here are London Jewish Campus Services, and it is important to recognize that this would not have been possible without your visit to our campus.
So on behalf of everyone here, thank you!
Am Yisrael Chai!
"Sgt. Benjamin Anthony's visit to Hampshire College on February 3rd was a crucial and necessary event, both for the Hampshire community and the larger quest to represent Israel and the IDF accurately on college campuses across the world.
Always composed and poised, never ruffled or agitated, Sgt. Anthony expertly delivered his lecture, even in the face of the considerable anti-Israel audience in attendance.
With strength and confidence, Sgt. Anthony began to relate his narrative- the importance of Israel to him and to the Jewish people. During his lecture, he was not afraid to reveal his personal and familial struggles with anti-Semitism in Europe. He spoke with courage and emotion.
Sgt. Anthony inspired the Hampshire audience to think of the IDF as composed of unique individuals defending their homeland....he challenged the audience to re-examine their conception of the purpose, methods, and composition of the Israeli army.
Sgt. Anthony's visit to Hampshire was an historic event for the college. This event was the first of its kind to grace Hampshire's campus in many years.
Sgt. Anthony's composure, honesty, and knowledge of the conflict made him a fantastic speaker to bring to Hampshire, and made a real impact on the campus. It would be a privilege and honour for any campus or audience to host Sgt. Anthony, and I look forward to working with him and his organization, Our Soldiers Speak, again in the future."
"The Our Soldiers Speak event was terrific. Sergeant Benjamin Anthony captivated his audience, leaving the listeners with a final message and call to action."
"A perfect fit for Drexel university. His composed nature and extraordinarily articulate communication gave way to a very moving event. His clear speaking skills captured the audience's attention immediately. The emotional speech was heard loud and clear by attendees who sat at the edge of their seats waiting for the next remark by Sgt. Anthony.
His points were clear and backed by first hand accounts of Sgt. Anthony's time in the army. He was able to take emotional stories of soldiers and use them as proofs for Israel's defensive stance toward war. His motivating character was able to resonate with the students and move them to action in advocating or Israel."
"[Sgt. Benjamin Anthony] made me realize that I have the power to affect policy and that it is a blessing that I am here, in Washington D.C., with the ability to make a change for Israel. Whether it be through lobbying, becoming more politically active, writing letters, or holding influential internships, the change can start with me. His stories put me on the verge of tears and truly illustrated how important it is to remember that Israel is our homeland and that as Jews it is our right to defend it."
"After [Sgt. Anthony's] lecture, students became more involved on campus and realized the importance of supporting Israel and the obligation to keep sharing the truth about Israel with their friends and colleagues. This is in part due to the wonderful organization that Sgt. Benjamin Anthony has created."
"Sgt. Benjamin Anthony's speaking abilities are superb, and he makes a point to reach out every member in the audience. I'm very happy that Benjamin could make it to Elon University, where the students received an account that they have never heard before during their years in academia."
"Sergeant Anthony,
I speak for Bearcats for Israel (University of Cincinnati Israel group) and everyone in attendance at your lecture last Thursday when I say thank you so much for coming to speak with us. Your insights into Israel and the media are thought-provoking and inspiring. Personally, as an Israel advocate with much background in speakers, pro-Israel encouragement, I infrequently hear an opinion on the topic that is as fresh, original or moving as yours. No one left the room with the same opinion on Israel as when they walked in. We appreciate your candid answers to our questions, and your obvious desire to reach out to an audience that may not initially have been as open minded as you would have liked."
"I thought that Benjamin's presentation was very powerful and effective in conveying the message of the threat that pro-Israel students face on North American campuses. Many students do not realize the intensifying anti-Israel and anti-Semitic feelings in universities, and even the world. The most effective part of the speech was educating students on how they can combat these dangerous ideologies. Besides answering students questions, Benjamin offered tangible steps towards battling anti-Israel activities on campus, and how we as American students can help Israel. His speech was inspiring, empowering, and motivating for the U of I students, and I know many on our campus would love to have him back."
"Sgt. Benjamin Anthony's visit was published as part of our annual Human Rights Week!
I can say without hesitation, that Sgt. Anthony's visit to my campus was the most beneficial pro-Israel event at OU in semesters. Students from both the pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian factions came to attend. And, slightly to my surprise, everyone acted respectfully and listened rather attentively to Sgt. Anthony's compelling narrative and the IDF's attempt to ensure Human "rights to all the people who dwell within her borders." Only one student got flustered throughout the entire presentation and, even then, our speaker listened with the sincerest attentiveness to the Palestinian students tale and responded with a calm and collected answer, so as not to misrepresent any facts.
I would encourage all students on any campus to host him also."
"Benjamin's speech was truly inspiring, not only to Israel activists but to students of many different backgrounds. He motivated me and others to work hard to reach our potential and achieve our goals to make an impact. We were given insight that everyone should be given a chance to hear. One student said to Benjamin, "I wish our whole campus would have heard you." People did not want to leave the auditorium at the end of the speech."
"Sgt. Anthony,
I want to thank you for sharing your experiences in such an eloquent and sensitive fashion last night at the University of Pittsburgh. I was moved by your speech. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart...for all that you do."
"Benjamin Anthony provided an impassioned, honest account of his experiences as an IDF soldier and Israel's situation in today's world. Also, he inspired me and my peers to understand how crucial the U.S.-Israel relationship is and how, even though as college students we are not defending Israel on the front lines, we can still make a major impact to strengthen Israel's flourishing existence."
"Sgt. Anthony brings an impeccable speech which I believe must be heard by all, whether they are for or against Israel. His openness to answer all questions, and incredibly respectful manner brings a one of a kind optimistically honest lecture. I politely urge anyone who is given the opportunity to hear Sgt. Anthony speak to do so, it is an opportunity that one should not pass up."
At Our Soldiers Speak we believe that the most important venues for dialogue, discussion and understanding are the university and college campuses of the english speaking world. The students there represent the policy makers and decision takers of the future.
A central aspect of our mission statement is direct verbal communication with college students on any campus willing to grant us audience. We strive to address ourselves to their questions and to explain the realities of combat, warfare and soldiering that stand before the members of the IDF.
The political opinion of the speaker is placed firmly beyond the content of the discussion and we are thus able to explore the ethical code to which the IDF adheres, the challenges facing Israeli troops and to acquaint the listener with the human side of warfare – a side that is rarely reported in the media. We also appraise some of the parallels between the IDF and other military forces.
Since its establishment Our Soldiers Speak has lectured on campuses throughout the United States and is now making forays into Canada, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Our ethos dictates that the most challenging questions be welcomed and receive a comprehensive response. For that reason, lectures are organized in accordance with the following stipulations:
- All lectures are convened at a neutral venue on campus.
- All lectures are effectively publicised to pro-Israel and anti-Israel groups alike to generate a listenership of diverse opinions and points of view.
- Questions are fielded for as long as they are forthcoming from all parties.
- No questions are pre-screened or submitted by way of cue-cards. This ensures the highest level of probity and candour possible.
To date, Our Soldiers Speak has reached college students at some more than 120 college campuses across the English speaking world.
Our multi-media section contains photographs and video clips for your interest.
We firmly believe that our work must continue.
If you would like to schedule a lecture on your campus then please contact us at inquiries@oursoldiersspeak.org or via any of the methods listed on our contact page.
We look forward to hearing from you and to bringing our message to your institution.
