Congressman and Former Navy SEAL Confirms His Attendance At Israel Appreciation Day

Israel Appreciation Day is honored to announce that former Navy SEAL and U.S. Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ), a steadfast advocate for national security and strong US-Israel relations, is scheduled to speak at the September 18th virtual event.

Rep. Crane's background differs from most speakers. A week after the September 11th attacks, Rep. Crane heroically left college during his senior year at the University of Arizona to enlist in the U.S. Navy where he went on to become a Navy SEAL. During his 13 years in military service, he participated in five wartime deployments – three of which to Iraq – protecting and defending America’s freedom, way of life, and Constitution.

In 2012, Rep. Crane and his wife Jen co-founded a veteran-owned small business that manufactures bottle openers made from shell casings. A venture that started in their garage, the business eventually grew to employ dozens and led to a successfully negotiated deal that was televised nationally. They sold the company in 2022. 

Israel Appreciation Day will bring together a diverse group of attendees, including community leaders, veterans, educators, and advocates, to celebrate Israel’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Israel Appreciation Day chairman Robert Chernin elaborates, "Israel Appreciation Day serves as a dynamic platform to celebrate the enduring friendship between two nations founded on common values of democracy, freedom, and human rights."

For more information on U.S. Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ) or other confirmed speakers, please visit Israel Appreciation Day 2024 and be sure to follow us on social media (X, Facebook, Linkedin, and Instagram).