Joseph was one of more than 700 American and Israeli Jews to celebrate Israeli’s 60th birthday with an outdoor festival and concert gala held in downtown Englewood May 8.

The performers hailed from Israel and so did many of the attendees.

Joseph, 19, of Tenafly, arrived home late April from Israel. He departed again on Sunday, to fight for a country he considers his homeland.

"The land of Israel is the most important security to its people. I lost a lot of family in the Holocaust," Joseph said.

"At the same time I faced anti-Semitism in Tenafly. I have a greater urge to defend what’s mine. I live here and was raised here but if America doesn’t accept me, I know Israel will. Most Jews feel that way too."

Joseph said that after visiting Israeli it is easier to fully understand why so many American Jews come back with a renewed spirit.

"You go out like it’s your last night. Every step you take you look down and it’s like someone from the Bible walked there," he said.

Assemblyman Gordon Johnson of Englewood understands what it’s like to experience Israel and come back a changed man. Johnson recently visited Tel Aviv with other local politicians.

"Israel is an example of a people’s drive and dedication to experience freedom from oppression and an opportunity to show the world how to be a productive part of society," Johnson said.

Dedication to Israel was reflected in Hebrew lyrics that resonating with the diverse crowd at the concert. The gala featured popular Yemenite artist and folk singer Noa, Joshua Nelson & the Kosher Gospel Singers and Pharaoh’s Daughter.

Members of the audience clapped and sang along.

Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes, who visited Israel last Passover, said the support expressed in the room is what will ultimately protect Israel.

"This country is the last hope of the wandering people. Its security is never assured but unity shows its survival."

For Joseph, listening to the Israeli music and seeing Americans celebrate the country’s independence with a local festival reminds him even more of what an important duty he has to accomplish.

"The best way to honor Israel is to give the country money and that’s what happened tonight. But for myself, serving the country is one of the greatest ways you can give back. The Israeli army doesn’t need me. I’m going for my own ideas and ideals."

But the protective ideals of Joseph and of other American Jews and Israelis are facing opposition. That opposition erupts on the streets of Israel regularly.

Celebrations by Israeli supporters continued overseas May 8 but according to related news reports, the country’s day of activities was marred by violence, something many Israeli’s have learned to live with.

Joseph said he wants to serve in the Israeli Army to make sure he can call the country his home, now and in the future.

"One time I was hitchhiking in Golan Heights and I got stranded. I ended up in somewhat of a communal farm. The kids invited me to stay for the entire night," Joseph said.

"It used to be that way when the country started. The Jews survived and had a place to stay after the Holocaust. It’s a very Israeli thing. It’s the opposite of sin."