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Remembering Sir James D'avigdor Goldsmid

Two Young Brave Heroes Awarded Medals by AJEX to mark 80th Anniversary of DDay

 

Manchester teenager Deena Baker has been awarded the prestigious Sir James D’Avigdor-Goldsmid Medal at the national AJEX Parade in Whitehall on Sunday. She shared this honour with Natasha Collins, who has strong family ties to Leeds.

The award, presented by AJEX and the Jewish Lads’ & Girls’ Brigade (JLGB), recognises exceptional courage, resilience, and leadership among young members of the British Jewish community. It is named in memory of Major-General Sir James D’Avigdor-Goldsmid, a D-Day veteran and one of the Jewish community’s highest-ranking British Army officers, who was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery 80 years ago this year.

Deena, the daughter of Rachel Baker and the late Martin Baker, was recognised for the unwavering support and encouragement she provided to her grieving family and peers following her father’s passing. Despite her own loss, Deena continued to inspire those around her, staying positive and focused during her GCSE mock exams.

As a young leader in JLGB, Deena has made a remarkable impact both locally in Manchester and nationally, taking on additional responsibilities as National Youth Manager. Her dedication to community life extends beyond JLGB, with active roles in youth groups such as CTeen, Bnei Akiva, and Aish.

Fellow award recipient Natasha Collins, 17, is the daughter of Lisa Collins and the late Daniel Collins from Leeds. Despite a deeply challenging year, during which Natasha lost both her father and her Nana, she has continued to excel as a leader within JLGB, supporting weekly groups in Borehamwood and running events for young leaders. Natasha, who is currently studying acting at a drama school in London, has shown extraordinary resilience and compassion, inspiring both her family and peers.

Following the medal presentations, Deena and Natasha took part in the AJEX Parade, which honours the contributions and sacrifices of British Jewish servicemen and women. Deena marched as part of the JLGB Marching Band alongside her brother, Reuben, while JLGB National Youth President Ilana Lesser, also from Manchester, laid the JLGB wreath at the Cenotaph in memory of the 535 JLGB members and leaders who made the ultimate sacrifice in the First World War.

JLGB volunteers played a vital role in ensuring the success of this year’s AJEX Parade, stepping into key roles such as standard bearers, wheelchair assistants, logistics coordinators, and members of the Guard of Honour. The JLGB Marching Band provided a stirring musical tribute alongside the Royal Marines Band, while service and leaflet teams ensured spectators could follow the day’s events.

The Sir James Award, a lasting tribute to Major-General Sir James D’Avigdor-Goldsmid, celebrates young individuals who exemplify his values of bravery, leadership, and service. Both Deena and Natasha are shining examples of these qualities, demonstrating resilience in the face of unimaginable loss and a steadfast commitment to their communities.

Dan Fox, National Chair AJEX JMA, shares: "Sir Jack’s remarkable bravery and leadership remain a beacon of inspiration to this day. Expanding the qualification for this medal in his honour, especially on this landmark anniversary, underscores our enduring 95 year partnership with JLGB and celebrates the courageous spirit of today's youth." 

 

 

For over 125 years, young Jewish people have been discovering just how brilliant they can be and how they can make the world a better place through JLGB. Whether you're 8 or 18, whatever you want to be, join in and be your best self with us! 

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