Freed American Israeli hostage Edan Alexander honored with street renaming in hometown of Tenafly
TENAFLY, New Jersey (WABC) -- A New Jersey native who was held captive by Hamas for more than 500 days is being honored with a street renaming ceremony in his hometown of Tenafly.
Community members of Tenafly's Jewish community rallied once again on Monday to celebrate freed American Israeli hostage Edan Alexander.
Alexander, now 21, moved to Israel at the age of 18 and joined the IDF.
He was 19 years old and actively serving in the Israeli military when he was captured during the October 7 attack. He was finally freed on May 12 after 584 days in captivity.
Alexander's return was celebrated in June following his release, and on Monday his hometown showed their love once again as he humbly expressed his appreciation.
"It's a super significant day. I really appreciate it, all the support from the whole town, everyone," Alexander said.
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The 21-year-old has already announced that he plans to return to Israel to continue his service in the army. To many here, he continues to bring honor to his community and his people.
"You have a young man who put the cause of fighting terror and fighting to bring the hostages home above himself, and for that he deserves this street sign after 584 days in captivity, coming home and making it home," New Jersey Congressman Josh Gottheimer said.
WATCH: Edan Alexander plans to return to IDF
With the support of many, Alexander's family never gave up hope during his time in captivity. Everyone now all smiling and praying his future will be a beacon of light.
"Edan means multi-task, and whatever I do, I finish until the end," said Rabbi Mordechai Shain of Lubavitch on the Palisades.
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