The death rate for white, middle-aged, less-educated Americans is climbing, while the overall average mortality rate in the nation continues to fall, according to recent research. The findings have prompted speculation over the trend, which is driven by rising substance abuse and suicide rates.
Countries in Europe such as the U.K., France, and Germany show no similar trend. In those nations, the death rate for white, middle-aged, less-educated populations continues to fall, similar to other groups, as technological advances and health-care improvements increase longevity.
Fact: During World War I, 10 percent of the officers in the German army were Jewish. Fact: During World War II, 4.7 percent of soldiers in the United States Armed Forces were Jewish, despite comprising less than 2 percent of the population.
Jews have always served in the military and fought to defend their country of residence. As a tribute, Jewish National Fund (JNF) has erected a Wall of Honor at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem to commemorate Jewish soldiers who fought in any war in any country. Started in 2008 with 15 plaques, today the names of 331 men and women from around the world, including Israel, are inscribed there.
