There are moments in public life when silence signals not caution, but failure. The Morey Levovitz scandal is not just a matter of poor judgment by one individual. It is a reflection of how Friends of the IDF mishandled a crisis and lost the trust of many who once supported it. What should have been a straightforward call for accountability became a drawn-out embarrassment that now threatens the organization’s credibility.
The board had options. They had the power to act early and decisively when concerns first emerged. Instead, they waited. They avoided. And even now, they have yet to offer a serious apology publicly (or to the soldiers) or show any sign that they understand the damage done. The leadership continues to make unforced errors, compounding the problem with every vague statement and every defensive move. The absence of honest communication has only deepened donor frustration.
Marshall H. Polk said what many have been thinking. In a sharply worded letter to the board, he wrote:
“You should be embarrassed at your handling of the Morey Levovitz scandal... I have removed FIDF from my estate plan and will not continue to act as an FIDF Ambassador.”
This is not someone throwing stones from the sidelines. Polk has been a longtime ambassador and supporter. His public exit marks a turning point. It is not just about one man stepping away, but a sign that others are reconsidering their support as well. Quiet discomfort is turning into open rejection.
FIDF has long promoted itself as a serious institution. But it is difficult to uphold that image when leadership avoids responsibility and treats criticism as a threat. Polk’s letter stands out because it breaks the silence and calls the situation what it is: a leadership failure that could have been prevented. Until FIDF acknowledges that truth, the fallout will continue. Not out of vengeance, but because people who care about the mission will not stand by while the organization continues to ignore its own standards.
Here is the letter in full:
Attn: All FIDF Board and Executive Committee members.
You should be embarrassed at your handling of the Morey Levovitz scandal.
You had the power to elect him therefore you also should have used that power to show him the door long before this scandal became public.. If he were a mensh, at any sign of in propriety, he would have resigned for the greater good of FIDF and Jewish philantrophy.
As of now I have removed FIDF from my estate plan and will not continue act as an FIDF Ambassador.
The FIDF mission remains noble and the organization has many dedicated staff members. The governing documents and bodies need a complete overhall.
Am Yisrael Chai FOREVER!!!
Marshall H. Polk
