“It is difficult to capture and describe in words the electricity and excitement in the room when Sgt. Benjamin Anthony spoke on behalf of Our Soldiers Speak. Allow it to be said that everyone present was mesmerized by each word and by the conclusion of the presentation everyone present felt a strong bond with the soldiers who defend the State of Israel. It was a true honor to have Sgt. Anthony as our guest at Young Israel of Century City.”

“We had the great pleasure of hosting Benjamin Anthony at our synagogue. Several hundred people listened in rapt attention and felt themselves educated and elevated. I recommend inviting him to your congregation very highly.”

“On Shabbat Morning May 16th, 2009, our community opened its doors to Sgt. Benjamin Anthony, a reservist in the IDF. Sgt. Anthony gave...his full presentation to our entire congregation, from the pulpit, immediately after daverning in the main sanctuary, before over five hundred worshippers.

From the beginning of his presentation until its conclusion, Sgt. Anthony fully engaged our congregants. He clearly and eloquently presented his first-hand account of Israel’s soldiers, their humanity, their courage and their sacrifice for the sake of Jewish people the world over.

His fluent and clear English ensured that his story did not suffer the fate of many others – that of being poorly communicated – but rather, it resonated with all who heard it. He also has a strong and audible voice.

Sgt. Anthony spoke in an apolitical manner, drawing not on secondary sources of information, but rather on his own experiences as a combat soldier, in order to present a strong, uncompromising and proud defense of our soldiers, their names and their actions on the front line.

The ensuing standing ovation and applause he received from our congregants was indication enough of their endorsement for his message and the work he has taken upon himself, but it was articulated further by a great many members of the synagogue thereafter.

At a time when Israel is being criticized from every direction, her soldiers unjustly indicted by those with little experience of what it is they comment on and her name besmirched by those unqualified to do so, how refreshing it was to hear the voice of one soldier presenting our side – the true side – and doing so with the experience, fluency and clarity necessary.

I commend his work and endorse his message. I urge communities everywhere to open their doors to him and grant him audience. You will thank me for the suggestion.”

“It is with great pleasure that I fully endorse Our Soldiers Speak. I am president of Young Israel of North Beverly Hills, and we had Sargeant Benjamin Anthony, a founder of Our Soldiers Speak deliver a powerful and emotional presentation to our entire shul following davening. Benjamin was articulate and compelling. He spoke about the real issues facing Israeli soldiers as they prepare for combat. Everyone I spoke to was moved, many to tears, by the images he presented.”

“Sgt. Benjamin Anthony... addressed our congregation at a major congregational Shabbat in April of this year. An excellent speaker and commanding presenter, Sgt. Anthony’s warmth and depth of expression was both moving and engaging. Very rarely do Americans get an insight into the actualities of the Israeli Defence Force and Sgt. Anthony’s candour shed light on an organization vital to Jews across the globe. Feedback from our congregation was excellent, with members finding Sgt. Anthony inspiring, yet accessible. We look forward to welcoming Sgt. Anthony back to Park Avenue Synagogue.”

“On Shabbat April 4th, Sgt. Anthony addressed our Congregation of about 500 people, following morning services. His presentation was extremely moving. The numerous positive comments of our membership to me after his presentation were that he was extremely effective, informative and inspiring. His message was one that is highly relevant and important to us in these times concerning the members of the IDF. It is a wonderful way to create bridges between the Diaspora and Israel, in particular the members of the IDF.

Sgt. Anthony spoke clearly and his English was fluent and excellent. He spoke first-hand about experiences that we, as Americans , would never have been able to know about....Sgt. Anthony was able to give us a true view of what really takes place on the front lines. I highly recommend other synagogues and organizations invite him to speak to their membership. It is an experience not to be missed.”

“He spoke powerfully and eloquently. His delivery was flawless – a deep, loud voice, a command of the language, and a British accent. His message was clear: The IDF soldiers hold themselves to the highest ethical standards possible...He implored his audience to defend the reputation of the IDF with the same strength and courage which the soldiers use to protect the lives of the Jewish People.

Everyone who heard Sgt. Anthony walked away with the real story, and more importantly, with a sense of confidence and pride in the IDF and the Jewish nation.”

“Our Synagogue, Ohab Zedek, has heard lectures from many effective and inspiring speakers for many worthwhile causes, and Sergeant Anthony's defence of the IDF's moral strength was certainly one of the most compelling. In a society inundated with mixed messages regarding the moral fortitude of the Israeli Defence Forces, Sergeant Benjamin Anthony brilliantly depicted the strong moral fibre of the IDF in an articulate, refreshing manner to our synagogue. Our congregation couldn't help but feel great pride for the Israeli army whose unending efforts in the most dire of circumstances help secure our people and our nation.”

“Sgt. Benjamin Anthony is one of the most captivating speakers that I have ever heard. His stirring message and his deep conviction will move both young and old. Sgt. Anthony is one of the Israel’s finest voices.”

“Sgt [Anthony’s]...presentation...was delivered clearly, with passion and the sincere conviction that the true story of the IDF's compassionate behaviour under the most trying circumstances must be publicized to the world community. This is most relevant in light of such distortions as for example the recent Swedish libel. Sgt Benjamin was most articulate and his first hand command and documentation of the subject matter left the audience spell bound. He is a true spokesman for this apolitical, noble cause to bring honour and respect to our IDF brethren. As such, Sgt [Anthony’s] effort is deserving of our all our support.”

“Benjamin Anthony spoke eloquently and passionately about the high ethical demands placed on Israeli soldiers and the tremendous sacrifice they make in order to meet these demands. His first-hand account of the Israeli soldier's experience is one that every American Jew should hear.

My congregation sat silently during his compelling speech, and their comments afterwards showed me that they too had gained a new insight into the humanity that Israeli soldiers bring to their duties.

Sgt. Anthony believes that the mainstream media do not show the true plight of Israelis and the soldiers who defend them. In each appearance he makes, he strives to change that trend so that the voices of those who protect our brothers and sisters can be heard.”

“If you want to learn how you can be a partner with the IDF as it improves its image in the United States and in the world at large, then you owe it to yourself, your synagogue, school, camp, university, or any other organization to invite Sgt. Benjamin Anthony to come to your community.

You will hear an articulate, insightful, knowledgeable young man [who] captivates his audience.

At Congregation Shomrei Emunah, one could hear a pin drop. Benjamin mesmerized all of us. He can do the same for you.”

“This was the most awesome, inspiring, blow by blow description of the ongoing turmoil that remains in our Homeland, the State of Israel. [Sgt. Anthony] described the compassion of the Israeli soldier at the risk of his own life and would not succumb to the bad publicity that the Israel soldier is getting from the media. It was almost tearful to listen to the idealistic values not only for the state of Israel but for human life in general.... [He] was interesting, inspiring and stimulating. I recommend him to go anywhere and speak. You will all be enthralled.”

“In a very moving and stirring presentation, Sgt Anthony presents many facts and truths about [the IDF] that we do not get to hear through the media. While we know...that the IDF is ethical and moral, it is still so important for us to hear it from first hand sources to strengthen our convictions and expand our knowledge. That is why we all need to do whatever we can to spread the message and to have Sgt. Anthony speak to as many groups as possible.

Sgt. Benjamin Anthony’s powerful presentation is matched only by his commanding presence. This subject is dear to all of us. It is always hard to get the truth out, but Sgt. Anthony has made it his mission to do just that.

I highly recommend Sgt Anthony and his organization Our Soldiers Speak. You will be glad that you did not pass up this opportunity.”

“On Shabbat April 4th I entered the Synagogue expecting to undergo my typical Shabbat experience. What actually occurred went far beyond that.

Immediately following the conclusion of the service...Sergeant Benjamin Anthony, a Brit by brith, now living in Israel, captivated every single congregant as he recounted example after example of why we here in the Diaspora have no reason to feel anything other than pride in the IDF and the actions of our soldiers. He did so professionally, exuding a certainty of purpose that united us all regardless of age or gender.

As a proud friend of [the State of Israel] I am eager for Sgt. Anthony’s words to reach as many people as possible.

I cannot recall hearing a more effective voice than that of Sgt. Anthony. I implore you all to open your doors and to grant him audience. We dare not let his voice or the voices of our soldiers go unheard.”

“Benjamin’s articulate, moving and compelling story kept the rapt attention of our members. In perfect English...Benjamin explained his personal mission of bringing to audiences the positive message of the vital role of the IDF in defending Israel, and its sacred place as a homeland for the Jewish People...

I highly recommend Benjamin to speak to any group so that he can continue to communicate his positive message of the IDF’s mission.”

“Benjamin Anthony has a strong and important message to send and he does so masterfully. He is fiercely determined to educate the world as to the realities of Israel’s battlefield. He understands that today’s college students are tomorrow’s leaders and this is the time to educate them, make them comfortable with Israel’s existence as a Jewish State and the way in which it defends itself. He is a captivating speaker and a must hear for everyone!!”

“Sgt. Benjamin Anthony recently addressed over 100 young Jewish professionals at an MJE Friday Night Shabbat Experience. Sgt. Anthony has an extraordinary, dynamic presence and delivery and his presentation was passionate and articulate, which engaged our young Jewish professionals and helped them relate to the life of an Israeli soldier and identify with fellow Jews. Sgt. Anthony’s words were inspirational and motivational. Our participants left that night with a renewed passion to become involved in any capacity that identified them with our people in our Homeland.

It is my strong recommendation that other organizations, synagogues and institutions invite Sgt. Anthony to speak and educate your community. In a world where Israel faces scrutiny and criticism, Sgt. Anthony’s message is ever more critical; both the facts he delivers and the passion with which it is delivered. Hearing Sgt. Anthony’s tremendous pride and dedication to the State of Israel and our people is truly an experience not to be missed.”

“In an outstanding program for communal synagogues and organizations, Sgt. Benjamin Anthony presents a chilling and forceful portrayal of the psyche that the average 18 year old Israeli soldier endures in the IDF. His dramatic presentation is absolutely gripping and will keep the attention and focus of his audience in a way that few speakers can. Sgt. Anthony relates his first-hand experiences...and reminds us of the honesty and integrity which the IDF keeps on the battle field. His words relate the threat that lies just outside our door, and reminds his audience of the important and critical obligation to counter negative press distortions regarding our Israeli soldiers in support of their efforts.”

“Dear Benjamin,

I want to share with you the impact that you made at our Commerce & Professionals breakfast on June 25.

The response to your talk was overwhelmingly positive. The participants were spellbound as you shared your military experiences. People were entranced by the narrative – there was no movement, shuffling, or other motion in the room. You accomplished something I have rarely witnessed – you transported all of us into the front line of battle, recreating all the moments of anxiety, trauma and tension. What was especially significant was your lucid explanation of Israeli soldier’s behaviour under the most challenging circumstances. You imparted, to each of us, pride in the IDF. You also inspired us to work to refute the misinformation about the IDF that is being circulated.

Your presentation was a valuable encounter and we are very grateful that you have devoted yourself to bringing truth to the public. Thank you as well for your commitment to speaking to as many groups as possible and I know your presence on college campuses was especially appreciated. All of us at the UJA Federation of Northern New Jersey are grateful for your work and wish you continued success.”

“If you have the opportunity of engaging Sgt. Benjamin Anthony to address your congregation or group, do not hesitate. Sgt Anthony is the most dynamic speaker I have had the privilege of introducing not once but twice in the same day, first to the UJA NNJ Commerce and Professionals division and then the Brotherhood at Temple Avodat Shalom in River Edge, NJ. His demeanour and content kept both roomfuls of adults rapt for his entire message. There were times where I had to remind myself to breathe and several others had the same reaction. He is delivering a message not heard often enough. Every American Jew needs to hear what he has to say.

I implore you to fit Sgt. Anthony into a program at your synagogue, community centre, day school and wherever you can get a group together, even if it means rearranging other programs. I cannot stress the importance of his message of what our Israeli troops are experiencing – the true story and not what the media has spun for their own devices.

I promise you will not be disappointed.”

“I had the privilege of hearing about Sergeant Anthony’s first hand experiences as an IDF soldier when he addressed a recent meeting of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), the oldest pro-Israel organization in the U.S. Without advocating any particular point of view, Sergeant Anthony clearly and eloquently gave a moving account of being on the front lines with his fellow soldiers...In addition to capturing the soldier’s heroism, Sergeant Anthony describes their humanity and morality...

Following his presentation, there was a question and answer period during which [he] spoke with the same eloquence and fluidity. I was impressed by the fact that even when he might not agree with a questioner’s point of view, Sergeant Anthony listened well and was respectful and thoughtful in his response...

Sergeant Anthony’s account of his service in the IDF must be heard now more than ever...If you are concerned about the vilification of Israel in the media and on college campuses, I encourage you to invite Sergeant Anthony to your venue to tell his story.”

“Benjamin Anthony addressed a crowd of major donors at a recent Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley event. You could hear a pin drop in the room as Benjamin passionately conveyed his personal experiences as a soldier in the Israel Defense Force and transported the audience from their comfortable living room seats to the front lines in Israel’s continued fight for survival.

His passion inspired our donors to stretch their support of our Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs even in the face of trying economic times. The reverberations from his talk continue and those who were unable to attend surely missed out on something special. It would be our honor to invite Benjamin to speak in our community again soon.”

“It was such a breath of fresh air to hear the truth about Israel’s cause in clear, fluent and elegant English. After all the bad press....Mr Anthony presents an entirely different message which must be heard in as many forums and venues as possible such as schools, universities, synagogues, and especially churches and non-Jewish forums...

I urge anyone who can to host or arrange to set up a speaking engagement to do so as soon as possible as this is such a timely message.”

“In a stirring presentation Sgt. Anthony recounted events he witnessed defending the Jewish Homeland...He addressed directly, clearly the challenges [our soldiers] faced as they fought to defend Israeli citizens against terrorists. Sgt. Anthony instilled a great sense of pride in us all as he painted a picture of Israeli soldiers fiercely committed to the doctrine of purity of arms upon which the IDF was founded.

I would recommend highly both Sgt. Anthony and his organization Our Soldiers Speak to any other Jewish or non-Jewish audience.”

“We at Yavneh Academy would like to show our appreciation to Mr. Benjamin Anthony for sharing his story with our Middle School on Yom Yerushalyim May 22nd, 2009. The students were mesmerized by his words and presentation. He truly represented the truth of the soldiers' experience in Israel. Mr. Anthony made the children aware of what civilians must feel like when being attacked and how much safer they must feel knowing that the Israeli army are there to protect them. This entire presentation was non-political and very relevant to today. The children had ample time for questions and Mr Anthony answered them directly and clearly. It was a great program, one that every school should have. Lots of luck in the future.”

“I am writing this letter to encourage, and even urge, the reader to bring IDF Sgt. (Res.) Benjamin Anthony to speak to your audience. When Sgt. Anthony delivered a speech, every single [student] was carefully attuned to his every word...The audience was noticeably moved by the presentation. There was not a sound in the room while Sgt. Anthony spoke. Students even came over to me later that day to find out if Sgt. Anthony was speaking anywhere else so that they could hear him again. (That a high school student should want to hear a speaker a second time is nothing short of astounding.)”

“Sgt. Benjamin Anthony spoke to the junior high school students of the Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey on Wednesday, May 20, 2000. He first spoke to the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys followed by a presentation to the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade girls. Some students commented that Sgt.Anthony was the best speaker that they have had. Other students expressed the feeling that Sgt. Anthony's topic "challenged" them to think of the difficulties and the struggles that the soldiers in the Israeli Army have to endure.

Sgt. Anthony's message empowered the students with tremendous pride in the Israeli soldiers and the State of Israel. His message is a powerful and meaningful one which should have an audience for all Jewish students.

He delivered his message in such a manner that he was able to keep the spellbound attention of all of the students. (It is quite an extraordinary feat to be able to keep the attention of Junior High students and relate to the students on their level).

The question and answer section at the end of Sgt. Anthony's message was especially important in giving the students the opportunity to express themselves. Having an Israeli Soldier who has experienced battle is quite a unique experience for American children. The students could have sat there all day asking questions and listening to Sgt. Anthony.”

“For all institutions concerned about Israel, Benjamin Anthony, of Our Soldiers Speak, is a person that you must have speak to your members!

Camp Moshava hosted Benjamin this summer and he spoke to a variety of age groups - campers, staff and adults. His presentation about Israel and the IDF was outstanding and inspiring. His passion and belief in the IDF was clearly communicated to all that attended. He successfully engaged with young children and adults alike. All were enthralled by his....well organized presentation and his deep commitment to Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael.

Don't miss the opportunity. Benjamin Anthony is one speaker you must have!”

“Camp Lavi was privileged to host Sgt. Benjamin Anthony, a reservist in the IDF who shared his important message with our campers. Aside from his unique ability to command a wide variety of ages and to hold their attention, Sgt. Anthony was compelling with his message. Most of our campers have some limited knowledge of the Israeli army and its soldiers through their schools. His talk afforded them the opportunity to see and hear a first-hand account of the unique challenges facing a soldier in the IDF. The question and answer period following each session displayed the intense interest that Sgt. Anthony stirred in our campers. He is a gifted speaker who connected immediately with our children in an age appropriate manner. Camp Lavi was honoured to host him and we highly recommend him for any forum.”

“When I got an e-mail from a top educator saying "This was the best speaker I have ever heard. You must book him for camp this summer," I knew we were in for something special. Sgt. Benjamin Anthony's visit to Camp Morasha for shabbat was remarkable for both our campers and staff. We often have difficulty finding speakers who are enjoyable for our campers and staff, for a wide age-range, and for boys and girls. We also have been searching for years for a speaker who can speak about the State of Israel and the Israeli army in a clear and understandable fashion. Sgt. Anthony was the perfect choice. He was able to cater his lectures to all different types of audiences and he pushed us to push him to speak as many times as we needed. Everyone was blown away by his passion for and experience in the Israeli army and was truly impacted by his perfect-English presentation. I highly recommend any camp, school, synagogue, or organization to expose its members to this great speaker.”

“Dear Sergeant Anthony,

On behalf of Camp Shoresh, I am writing to thank you for the deeply meaningful lecture and discussion group that you led at our camp. You managed to instil a strong sense of Jewish pride and responsibility within our campers. You enlightened them as to the realities facing our selfless Israeli soldiers and many Israeli citizens. Our campers gained deep respect for Israel and its army and now understand the impact each individual can have within a much larger community. Thank you so much for helping to foster a sense of civic responsibility in our campers as well as deepening their love and concern for Israel. We all gained tremendously from your visit.”

“Sgt. Benjamin Anthony is a powerful speaker who speaks the truth. His charisma and spectacular eloquence is outstanding and is a true testimony to Sgt. Anthony's passion. From his background, to his dedication to the IDF, every aspect of Sgt. Anthony's presence was captivating.

It was a true privilege to host and speak to Sgt. Anthony. He came to our community, and spoke at our school, at our youth movement's Oneg Shabbat on Friday night, and at our synagogue the next day. Teenagers, adults, and even children had questions for him. His speech enriched our Shabbat and reminded everyone of us of our responsibility to Israel, our Homeland. IDF soldiers like Sgt. Anthony fight to protect our land so it will stay the Homeland for the Jewish people.

His mission is our mission. Israel needs the help of people in the Diaspora in every shape and form, and this opportunity is one which cannot pass by.”

“Benjamin is an impressive speaker. He spoke very powerfully and articulately about his experiences in a manner that deeply moved the congregation...[He] provided us with revealing insights into the human, moral and spiritual difficulties soldiers then – and now – have to go through. Although his personal religious faith shines through, his message is one that will be appreciated by all kinds of audiences, from the most secular to the most religious.

At a time when Israel and its army is frequently being portrayed in a negative way in the media, I feel sure that you and your community will derive much [strength] from the message that this young man has to bring. It is a message that most certainly ought to be heard.”

“...many of our members remarked that it had been a long time since they had heard such an inspirational speaker. I highly commend and support [Sgt. Anthony’s] objective to speak positively about Israel in general and the IDF in particular. In doing so, he corrects a sometimes negative perception of the IDF, and brings information about the high ethical standards of the average Israeli serving in the Israeli Defence Forces.”

“[The lecture] was passionate and moving and gave us a much greater insight into the mindset of the young men and women who so willingly dedicate themselves to the defence of our Holy Land.”

“At this time of severe strain and tension in Israel, with a world that is indifferent to her plight or even hostile and aggressive towards her, where false accusations of wanton murder and destruction are constantly being unfairly levelled against it, when its very existence and future is being challenged daily, how rare indeed to hear a voice of clarity and reason, a voice attempting to stem the tide of criticism and the surge of hatred.

His message is about setting the record straight vis-à-vis the IDF and the pride he carries in the knowledge that it is an army steeped in fairness and compassion – even as it faces existential threats. It is a message that challenges the accepted norms of Israel and, in particular, its armed forces...as an unfair power. Benjamin validates and confirms that the humanity of the Israeli soldier remains very much intact.

Benjamin was sensational and superb for us, and I highly recommend him.”

“While Benjamin’s talk is a disincentive to war, it is a tribute to the human spirit and...it would be suitable for different audiences. I was sorry not to have had some young people in our group that evening as I believe he has a message for them.

I know that it was well received by our audience, from the many comments we received on the night, to the emails and phone calls we have received since, commenting that Benjamin’s talk has really made people think, while others were fascinated to have heard his first hand account.”

“His talk was electrifying. The entire congregation hung on his every word as he spoke eloquently and clearly about the hardships he endured and the sense of mission and justice which inspired him and his fellows to continue. It was helpful to us that English is his mother tongue, so that we had absolutely no problem hearing him and could concentrate on his powerful message.”

“He is an eloquent and passionate speaker, who cares deeply about Israel, and, in particular, its relationship with the Diaspora. His is a story that should be heard by as many people as possible who care about Israel and its future, and I have no hesitation in recommending Benjamin...to you as a speaker, for fundraising or for any other purpose.”

“Benjamin is an articulate and well-presented ambassador for Israel and the Jewish people. I believe that as many people as possible should have the opportunity to hear [his] presentation and would encourage you to invite him to address your community.”

“During my career as Chairman and now President of WIZO UK I have heard many speakers from the IDF and the political arena but my husband and I were so moved that we went to hear Benjamin a second time on the same day....I can wholeheartedly recommend Benjamin as a very worthwhile and illuminating speaker and wish him the very best of luck in his future endeavours.”

“Put quite simply it was one of the most spellbinding, powerful and moving addresses I think I may ever have heard and I speak not only for myself, but for many of our members who made this very point to me.”

“I wanted to write to you personally to thank you for your outstanding contribution at our recent UJIA national Women’s Lunch....I think I mentioned to you on the telephone how many women were moved, some to tears, during your speech. We strive to connect with our audience at all our events and you most definitely achieved it.”