I asked what they where doing in Isreal, they answered that they are part of an organization named Heart to Heart which is actually one of the activities of AFMDA – American Friends of Magen David Adom. They came to Israel for a tour and to contribute to the country following the operation Protective Edge, touring for 10 days, and decided due to the operation, they will donate blood. Most of them came to Israel for the first time, all were former soldiers in the American army.

In my conversation with them I told them I salute them and appreciate what they are doing, and their answer was that it was their pleasure, and this is their country! Or as they said in their own language: This is our homeland! Do you understand? Americans see their native land in our country.

I can only thank them again and hope that we Israelis can learn the importance of blood donations to the MDA blood bank, especially now that the holidays are approaching. Take this as an example for yourself, find a free hour, and go fill up the blood bank reserves.