Danna Homan, who hails from Alabama, has always felt a strong bond with the land she affectionately calls home. Growing up in Demopolis and earning her degree from the University of Alabama, her ties to the South run deep. After spending time in Atlanta and Dallas for work, she returned to her roots in Birmingham.
On March 14, Homan embarked on a journey spanning over 6,500 miles from Birmingham to a region marked by turmoil and conflict. Driven by her Christian faith and love for Israel, she signed up with Sar-El, an organization that sends international volunteers to assist the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) during challenging times.
“My affection for Israel stems from my Christian beliefs. Jesus was Jewish, and I’ve always held dear the Biblical promises made to Israel,” Homan expressed. “The very existence of Israel is a miracle and a fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah.”
In light of the tragic events on October 7, 2023, and the alarming rise in anti-Semitism, she felt compelled to act.
“After the terrible incident on October 7, I realized I could no longer remain passive,” she said.
Through her work with Sar-El, Homan was detailed to the medical base at Telhashmer, where she worked alongside other volunteers to support active soldiers by preparing surgical packs, repacking their gear, checking medical supplies, and organizing essential field equipment.
However, her experience wasn’t without its challenges. Homan shared the intense atmosphere of living under the imminent threat of rocket attacks.
“On the third night, at 3:45 a.m., I was jolted awake by the loudest alarm I’d ever heard. I had just 60 seconds to get to safety. I jumped up, flinging my boots into the bed and rushed out,” she recalled.
Despite these fears, Homan found inspiration in the resilience of the Israeli people.
“The Israelis know exactly what to do. When the alarm rings, they spring into action, guiding others to safety with such confidence and calmness—it’s something I’ve never seen before.”
One particularly moving moment for her was during a flag-raising ceremony at the base.
“I was filled with emotion standing there with two female soldiers as we sang the Hatikva. It’s surreal to think that a girl from Alabama was now at a military base in Israel, singing their national anthem and hoisting their flag.”
While there, she built meaningful connections with the Israeli soldiers, who often questioned why someone non-Jewish would come to help.
“Tears streamed down my face as I witnessed their struggles. I felt compelled to explain my profound love for Israel and why it means so much to me.”
Reflecting on her experience, Homan stated:
“This is why I was placed in a nation facing conflict, a nation struggling with the hostages and battling anti-Semitic sentiment worldwide.”
Back home in Alabama, Homan has made an urgent call to her fellow citizens and leaders.
“Let’s bring the hostages home now. Enough talking. The attempted ceasefire has failed.” At the same time, she urged elected officials to take a firm stance against anti-Semitism.
“Stand up—through words and action—even if it makes you stand out.”
Homan also emphasized the historical ties between Alabama and Israel, noting that Alabama was the first state, back in 1943, to advocate for a Jewish homeland.
She reflected on her journey as just the beginning.
“This chapter of my life will remain etched in my soul, and I feel honored to have been trusted to be a part of this in some small way.”
For more information about the Sar-El Volunteer Program, visit www.sar-el.org.
