Overlooking the breathtaking landscape near Jerusalem stands Yad Kennedy. This memorial honors John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States. He was assassinated in 1963. Yad Kennedy is more than a monument. It embodies the enduring friendship between the United States and Israel.
Yad Kennedy’s story began shortly after Kennedy’s death. In 1964, Max Bressler proposed the idea for a memorial. Jewish communities across America donated funds. In 1966, Yad Kennedy was completed.
Israeli architect David Resnick designed Yad Kennedy. The design is deeply symbolic. The 60-foot-high structure resembles a cut tree trunk. It represents Kennedy’s life cut short. Fifty-one columns encircle the memorial. Each column represents a state of the United States plus the District of Columbia. Each displays the state’s emblem. Slim glass panels separate the columns.
At the heart of Yad Kennedy burns an eternal flame. This flame symbolizes the lasting memory of President Kennedy. Israeli sculptor Dov Feigin created a bronze relief of Kennedy. The memorial also features excerpts from Kennedy’s speeches.
Chief Justice Earl Warren, who investigated Kennedy’s assassination, attended the dedication. Israeli Prime Minister Levi Eshkol also attended. Warren said the living memorial would have “greatly pleased” Kennedy. Eshkol dedicated the memorial to “the man who opened new frontiers.”
Yad Kennedy is located on one of the highest hills near Jerusalem. The elevation is 825 meters. From the parking lot, the view is stunning. On a clear day, you can see the Mediterranean Sea.
The John F. Kennedy Peace Forest surrounds Yad Kennedy. Visitors can enjoy picnic grounds. Jacqueline Kennedy visited the memorial in 1978. She planted a tree in the forest. Other Kennedy family members have also planted trees here.
Even a special Kennedy Family Planting Circle exists. American military personnel often plant trees here. Israeli schoolchildren plant trees on Tu Bishvat. In 1989, a fire destroyed part of the forest. Despite this, the forest has recovered.
Yad Kennedy stands as a testament. It honors a leader and strengthens international bonds. Its design symbolizes loss and remembrance. It offers a space for reflection. It fosters a connection between two nations.