Jews took an active part in the struggle for independence. 1918 December 29 More than 500 Jews were among the 10,000 volunteers who responded after the government issued a call urging Lithuania to defend itself against predators. Total 1918-1923 over 3,000 Jews served in the army. 23 distinguished Jewish soldiers were awarded the highest award - the Vytis Cross. According to incomplete data, 73 Jews were killed in battles. 1933 former fighters founded the Lithuanian Jewish Soldiers' Union. 1935 this union began publishing the newspaper "Overview" (in Lithuanian). Activities aimed at the international recognition of the Lithuanian state were very significant. Jewish community figures used their extensive international connections to accelerate this process. It is no coincidence that the well-known Jewish figure Šimšonas Rozenbaum was appointed Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania.