Forever a Fighter

We are a forward-looking people, full of optimism and hope. So why look back? Why waste precious moments of “now” to tell stories of long ago? That was the hurdle the family of Eliyahu (Edward) Abramson a”h had to overcome, as they begged the 97-year-old father, grandfather, and great-grandfather to tell his story.

When he greeted visitors on a winter Sunday, Eliyahu Abramson was recuperating from a broken left leg. Neither his injury nor his 97 years got in the way of his vigorous hospitality. He engaged in easy banter, and the atmosphere was light and friendly — at least until the idea of an interview was introduced.

He insisted that anyone who was not there will never understand. Still, he conceded that at least some part of the story needed to be recorded, for the sake of future generations. Reluctantly, he dusted off memories of war and death as an American soldier during World War II, as well as the wonder of being a Jew in Eretz Yisrael and reclaiming his Torah heritage. As the narrative took shape, he agreed to plans for a photographer to come that Friday.

Unfortunately, that photography session never came to pass; Eliyahu was admitted to the hospital with a fever, and, except for one brief interval, remained there until 6 Adar II/March 13 — when he returned his soul to his Maker, having completed his assignment in This World.