Welcome Home, Edan

On Monday, the town of Tenafly, New Jersey, came alive as residents celebrated the long-awaited release of Edan Alexander, their hometown hero, from Hamas captivity.

“I barely slept these past two nights preparing for this,” shared Mari Orsner, 45, one of the event’s organizers. “This day means so much to us. We’ve waited 584 days for our beloved son to return home.”

“He went to Israel voluntarily, joined the IDF, and was invited to serve,” Orsner explained. “Now he’s finally back.”

The gathering took place at Huler Park following the announcement that the 21-year-old IDF Staff Sergeant was released over the weekend after being held by terrorist groups since the attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.

More than 19 months later, Alexander was handed over to the Red Cross and crossed back into Israeli territory.

The atmosphere at Huler Park was vibrant, with locals celebrating around a large screen broadcasting updates from Israel. Israeli flags adorned the area, and people danced to traditional music.

“As a mother, I can only imagine what his mother has gone through. It must have been incredibly difficult for her, but today must bring her so much joy,” said one attendee.

“Being here with the community feels uplifting, especially when everyone shares the same hope,” she continued. “My husband was here by 5 am and I arrived at 8. We felt a strong need to be part of this.”

Silla Waterman, another resident, reflected on the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attacks in Gaza that claimed over 1,200 lives. “The wounds are still fresh, but at least there’s something to celebrate now.”

“It’s bittersweet that he’s the only one released,” Waterman, 48, added. “But being here today feels right. Finally, we can experience a moment of happiness in such unsettling times.”