LONE SOLDIERS PROGRAM

Informational Booklet FOR Parents of Lone Soldiers

1 Table of Contents

Preface...... 4 Introduction...... 6 Programs for Enlisting in the IDF...... 7 Being Drafted to the IDFF Tzav Rishon...... 8 Medical Profile...... 9 Filing an Appeal and Updating the Military System...... 10 Ra’ayon Tash...... 10 Process of Classification Process of Classification...... 11 Being an Only Child in the IDF...... 11 Recruitment Tracks Involving Academic Study...... 12 Determining Job Placement...... 12 Determination of the Draft Date ...... 13 Just Before the Draft...... 14 New Soldiers Recieve:...... 14 The “Stars Card”...... 15 ARMY SERVICE Draft Day...... 16 The Enlistment Process...... 16 Length of Service of New Olim in the IDF...... 18 Request to Extend Service...... 19 Types of Service in the IDF...... 20 Special Courses for Olim...... 20 IDF Array Structure...... 20

2 Types of Positions in the IDF...... 21 Main Events During ...... 22 Military Service...... 22 Berets, Symbols of Units and Brigades, and Pins...... 24 Badges of Each Unit...... 25 Pins of Special Units...... 25 Medical and Mental Health Caring for the Medical and Mental Health of the Soldiers...... 26 Medical Clinic of the Unit...... 26 Bikur Rofeh Medical Clinics...... 26 Yom Gimel ...... 26 Yom Bet ...... 26 Extreme Situations...... 27 Moked Mi Kol ha-Lev -IDF Medical Service...... 27 Additional Situations When Soldiers Should Go to the Emergency Room...... 27 Payment for Emergency Room Treatment...... 28 What Happens If a Soldier Receives More Than 6 Days of “Yom Gimel”?...... 28 Psychological Care – The Kaban (Mental Health Officer)...... 29 Military Terminology...... 30 Benefits for Lone Soldiers Benefits for Lone Soldiers During Military Service...... 32 Additional Benefits (Benefits That Are Not From the IDF)...... 34 Residential Options...... 35 Salaries for Soldiers...... 35 BEING A PARENT OF A LONE SOLDIER How Do You Deal with the Distance?...... 36 Important Phone Numbers...... 38 Ten Commandments for Parents of Lone Soldiers...... 39 Prior to Being Released...... 39

3 PREFACE

Dear Parents, Being the parent of a soldier is a challenging experience; being the parent of a lone soldier who did not grow up in Israel is even more challenging because of differences in language and culture, the distance, and other factors. As parents of lone soldiers, you are probably experiencing mixed feelings – feelings of both pride and concern – as your child embarks upon this incredible journey. These feelings become more pronounced because of the geographic distance. This booklet was written for you, as parents of lone soldiers. It is designed to provide you with information that will help you gain a better understanding of what your children are going through, so that you can “be there” for them despite the geographic distance. We hope it will help you stay up to date and help you feel more connected throughout this period of military service. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, dear parents, for raising children who have strong values and believe in the importance of contributing to the land of Israel. We will do whatever we possibly can both for them and for you – and we are always at your service. We hope that this booklet will be helpful to you. We are available at any time to provide assistance to you and to all of the lone soldiers! In Israel: *6563 Find us on Facebook at /LoneSoldiersProgram Send us an email: [email protected] Check us out on Instagram /nbn_lonesoldiers The Lone Soldiers Program Team at Nefesh B’Nefesh

“Being the parent of an IDF soldier is an honor. Being the parent of a lone

4 soldier is inspiring.” מִי שֶ ׁבֵּרְַךאֲבֹותֵינּו אַ בְרָהָ ם יִצְחָ ק וְ יַעֲ קֹב, הּוא יְבָרֵ ְך תאֶ חַ ייָּלֵ אצְבָ הַהֲ ּהגַנָ לְ ליִשְׂרָאֵ וְאַ נְשֵ ׁי כֹּחֹות הַבִּטָ ּחֹון, הָעֹומְדִ ים לעַ of רמִשְׁמַ אַרWelfareְ צֵ נּוthe וְעָרֵ for יאֱֹלהֵ Prayerינּו, מִ גְ ּבּול הַלְּבָ נֹון וְעַ ד מִדְבַ ּרמִ צְרַ יִם, Soldiers ּומִ ןהַ יָּם Forces הַ גָ ּדֹול דDefenseעַ לְ Israelבֹוא הָעֲרָ בָ ה ּובְכָ למָ קֹום שֶ ׁהֵ ם, בַ ּיַּבָּשָ ׁה בָּאֲ וִ יר ּובַ יָּם. May God, who blessed our forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, bless the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces, who stand guard over our land and the cities of our God, from the border of Lebanon to the desert of Egypt, יִתֵּן ה'אֶ ת אֹויְבֵ ינּו הַקָּמִ ים עָ ,Aravah לֵ to the ינּו Sea נִגָּפִ Great יםfrom the לִפְ נֵיהandֶ ם! הַקָ ּדֹוׁש בָּרּוְך הּוא יִשְ ׁמֹר וְ יַצִ ּיל תאֶ חַ יָלֵ.on the sea ינּומair, andִ ּכלin the צָרָ ,landה onוְצּוקָ ה, ּומִ ּכל May the Lord cause the enemies who rise up against us ענֶגַ ּומַחֲ לָ ה, וְ יִשְ ׁלַ ח בְּרָ כָ .them ה before וְהַצְלָחָ down ה struck בְּכָ be ל toמַעֲשֵ ׂה יְדֵיהֶ ם.

May the blessed Holy One preserve and rescue our soldiers from every trouble and distress and from every plague and illness, יַדְבֵ ּר ׂשֹונְאֵ ינּו .endeavorתַּחְתֵּיהֶ ם,in their every וִיעַטְּרֵ ם and success רבְּכֶתֶ send blessing היְׁשּועָ and may Godּובַעֲטֶרֶ ת

נִצָ ּחֹון. וִיקֻ יַּם םבָּהֶ הַ כָ ,our soldiers ּתּוב: before "כִ ּי submit ה'enemies to אֱֹלהֵ our ם יכֶ cause הַ God הֹלֵ ְך Mayעִמָ ּכֶ ם, and may God grant them salvation and crown them with victory. לְהִ םלָּחֵ םלָכֶ םעִ :verse םאֹיְבֵיכֶ for them the לְהֹושִ ׁיעַ be fulfilled אֶתְ כֶ there ם".may וְ Andנֹאמַ ר: "אָמֵ ן" “For it is the Lord your God, Who goes with you to battle your enemies for you to save you,” and let us say, Amen.

5 INTRODUCTION

Nefesh B’Nefesh is a nonprofit organization that aims to strengthen Aliyah from North America and the UK. Since its establishment, Nefesh B’Nefesh has facilitated the Aliyah of tens of thousands of new Olim. In partnership with the State of Israel and various organizations, Nefesh B’Nefesh works to eliminate the financial, professional, logistical, and social hurdles faced by Olim and assists the thousands of young men and women who join the IDF annually. Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a non-political, non-military organization that provides for wellbeing of the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), veterans and family members. We are the single organization authorized to represent the IDF across the United States and Panama, as designated by Lt. Gen. Gadi Eisenkot, IDF Chief of the General Staff in March 2017 and by Lt. Gen. Aviv Kohavi, IDF Chief of the General Staff in February 2019. The Israeli government is responsible for training IDF soldiers and providing them with the necessary tools for their service. FIDF is committed to providing these soldiers with love, support, and care to ease the burden they carry on behalf of the Jewish community worldwide. Established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors under the leadership of John Klein z’l, FIDF is a 501c3 not- for-profit corporation that operates 20 regional offices in the United States and Panama, with headquarters in New York City. For more information please check www.fidf.org Nefesh B’Nefesh and the Lone Soldiers Program (LSP) run a wide range of activities in North America, answering any questions that arise prior to making Aliyah. These activities include an Aliyah Information Fair, one-on-one meetings, parents’ evenings, and lectures on different topics. The International Lone Soldiers Program run by Nefesh B’Nefesh in partnership with the FIDF serves as an address for all Olim who are lone soldiers – as well as Mahal soldiers (volunteers from overseas who have not made Aliyah). Our program provides all lone soldiers with support and gives them tools to help them during the draft process and throughout their military service while they are adjusting to life in Israel. The program’s team is always available to offer assistance both while the soldiers are in the army and after their service is complete. The program offers support in four languages – English, Spanish, French, and Russian. The following is a partial listing of the activities that we run:

Prior to Joining the Army: • Financial grant for anyone being drafted who meet the requirements and is recognized fully as a lone soldier, i.e., an individual who has two parents living overseas • Advice for anyone considering enlistment in the IDF • Assistance and support in interfacing with the IDF during the draft process • Preparatory seminars prior to being drafted • Hotline available 24/7 at: *6563 • Social events for individuals who are being drafted During Military Service: • Annual Errands Day, a day organized by Nefesh B’Nefesh and the IDF, during which dozens of organizations and government offices provide services to Olim serving as lone soldiers – all under one roof • Social events for lone soldiers • Emotional support and guidance throughout the soldiers’ military service • Participation of staff members in the soldiers’ military ceremonies • Host families for soldiers • Information and support for parents of lone soldiers • Assistance in situations of distress or crisis • Assistance in moving to a new apartment

6 After Military Service: • Advice and guidance regarding employment and academic studies • Social events for individuals who completed service In addition to our work on behalf of the lone soldiers, we also work to assist you, the parents. We provide updates about what is happening in the world of the lone soldiers – in the IDF – and provide current and relevant information. Some of the services that we provide for parents include: • Newsletter distribution • Online seminars • Organization of a Gadna (army introductory program) for parents of lone soldiers • A number of flight subsidies in partnership with El Al, allowing participation in graduation ceremonies for soldiers • Hotline available 24/7 • Email correspondence with parents Programs for Enlisting in the IDF Once a person decides to make within the IDF, Hebrew-language from overseas). In this program, Aliyah, he or she can choose to Ulpan studies for those who need anyone who is eligible for join the IDF independently or to improve their Hebrew, helping Aliyah from around the world submit a request to join the Garin the soldiers get to know and can volunteer to serve in the Tzabar program of the Tzofim learn about Israel – all of which IDF without making Aliyah or movement. Garin Tzabar is a are designed to shrink the gap, as obtaining Israeli citizenship. The unique program that provides much as possible, between lone registration process for Mahal a supportive environment and soldiers and soldiers who went tracks takes place through the guidance for young Jewish people through the Israeli educational Social-Defense Division of Israel’s from around the world who system so that the lone soldiers Ministry of Defense. Note that have chosen to make Aliyah and can integrate more easily. during their Mahal service, a perform a complete, meaningful It is important to know that soldier can make Aliyah after service in the IDF as lone throughout this entire process, joining the IDF. soldiers. The program includes the group receives ongoing The following sections provide a preparatory process with guidance and emotional, social, details about the kinds of educational seminars in their and bureaucratic support. assistance that the Nefesh country of origin, an intensive Anyone who is still deliberating B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers’ Program period of absorption in Israel, and whether to make Aliyah but offers from the moment an full service in the IDF. The period who has already decided to join individual arrives in Israel and of absorption in Israel includes the IDF can consider joining the begins the draft process. helping soldiers with their Mahal program (for volunteers integration into and classification 7 TZAV RISHON

The Tzav Rishon is particularly important because it establishes the Kaba score (an overall number received by each soldier) and Dapar score (the result of a psychotechnical exam), Hebrew level, medical profile, and other details that have an impact on which positions a soldier is considered for and affect upward mobility in the army. It is very important to remember to bring either a Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card) or Israeli passport to the Tzav Rishon! The following is the process that candidates for the Sherut Bitachon (Defense Services) undergo at the Tzav Rishon:

DATA VALIDATION PSYCHOTECHNICAL EXAMS Meitav (military HR unit), as long At this station, candidates This station involves a series as the test is still valid at the undergo a psychotechnical of computerized tests that time of the Tzav Rishon. (This evaluation. The goal of the determine one’s Kaba and Dapar process can be done through evaluator is to determine that grades – which have an impact Mitgaisim.) The checks are information about education, on the kinds of roles in the army followed by an exam by a doctor marital status, address, phone that each candidate will be who determines the candidate’s number, and other details that assigned. Guidance is provided medical profile. Regarding any the army received are correct before the tests start about how medical history: It is best for the Being Drafted to the IDF and up to date. After a short to fill in the answers. New Olim candidate to bring a medical conversation with the evaluator, are entitled to use an adapted questionnaire signed by a family a test is given to check the version of the tests in any one doctor and medical information candidate’s level of Hebrew. It of the following languages: signed by the doctor who has does not matter whether you English, Russian, French, Spanish, been providing treatment were born in Israel or overseas – Amharic, or Arabic. The language overseas. It is important to all candidates must take this test. of the test is determined on inform the IDF about any past The results of the test determine the day of the Tzav Rishon by medical history, as it helps the whether the candidate will be the psychotechnical evaluator. doctor determine an appropriate placed in a Hebrew-language Note that any candidate who profile and establish what course at Michve Alon (an has had a didactic evaluation or military service is suitable. educational basic training base). has prescriptions for medication such as Ritalin or Concerta must PERSONAL INTERVIEW bring a valid prescription, as well The personal interview allows as a copy of the evaluation that the army to get to know new was translated and approved recruits as well as possible. It by a notary. Because of the cost investigates how suited a person involved in using a notary, it is is to different kinds of service, best to discuss this with the LSP and particularly checks suitability advisors before the Tzav Rishon. for combat service. During the interview, questions are asked MEDICAL CHECKS about topics related to different This station involves a series of areas of life. This interview is not medical checks to determine a test; there are no right or wrong one’s military profile. The checks answers. It is important to be include: measuring height and truthful and answer honestly. Not weight, checking vision, doing a all Olim have an interview during urine test, and more. The urine the Tzav Rishon, but this will test can be done ahead of time at not hurt their chances of doing a local Kupat Cholim (healthcare combat service. center) and the results sent to

18 Medical Profile

The medical profile is a numeric score reflecting the health of each Malshab (pre-army candidate). In the army, this is very important information – established during the Tzav Rishon. The medical profile has an impact on the nature of a soldier’s military service. Not every medical limitation leads to a lower profile. Some small problems may be considered minor impairments, while other problems make a soldier eligible for a Ptor – an exemption from some roles. The Ptor can be temporary or permanent. It allows a soldier to continue to function in a position in the IDF without damaging their health. The medical profile ranges from 21 to 97. The numbers were determined randomly by the medical corps over the years, and aside from their purpose in determining a soldier’s medical status, they have no meaning. The highest number indicates the greatest medical ability. The more severe the medical limitation, the lower the number.

PROFILE 97 PROFILE 64 PROFILE 24 Perfectly healthy; fit to serve Eligible for service in combat Temporarily unfit for military in field units and in all of the support units and certain service, for example, after combat battalions, as well as combat roles (depending on surgery or injury. The profile will in elite units. If there are mild the impairment) such as Magav be updated after the candidate medical problems, a note (Border Police Fighter), Air completes medical treatment or is added to the candidate’s Defense Fighter, Operational appeals a medical condition – profile. This note does not lower Security Profiling Agent in Border after a time period determined by the profile number, but may Crossing battalions, Home Front the medical physician at Lishkat disqualify a candidate from Command Fighter, and Squad Hagiyus (Recruitment Office). specific roles, depending on the Commander. PROFILE 21 type and severity of the problem. PROFILE 45 Completely unfit for service due to PROFILE 82 A low profile; this means that physical or mental health. There is Healthy, but with a slight medical military service will not include a an option to apply to volunteer, in impairment; fit to serve in combat or support role. which case one’s profile is raised field units and in the infantry, to 25. PROFILE 25 depending on the impairment. Given to individuals with medical PROFILE 72 or mental health issues who want Moderate medical impairment, to volunteer to enlist in the IDF, for example, mild asthma, knee despite having a profile that is too and back problems, etc. The low for service. This is a profile candidate is qualified for combat that was updated from a 21 or a service in all units except for 24. infantry units and Sayarot (elite units).

19 10 Being Drafted to the IDF The appealshouldalsoincludedetailsofthereasonwhycandidatebeviewedasqualifiedor only beconsideredifup-to-date,relevantmedicaldocumentssignedbyaqualifiedphysicianareattached. profile isdeterminedintheTzavRishon,orimmediatelyafterthereachangehealth.Theappealwill Submitting anappealinvolvescontactingtheMeitavServiceCenterwithinamonthfromtime • • • A candidatemayappealhisorherprofileforthreereasons: the Military System Filing anAppealandUpdating candidate. Inthiscase,thecandidatereceivesaPtor (exemption)fromtheDefenseServices. In unusualcircumstances–forexample,duetomedical problems–adecisionmaybemadenottodraft arrival age,checktheNefeshB’Nefeshwebsiteand beintouchwithanLSPadvisor. alternatively, spent120dayscumulativelyina12-monthperiodIsrael.Forassistancedetermining when acandidatespent4consecutivemonths(withpossibilityofshortbreaksduringthisperiod)or, service isbasedonwhat’stermedtheAgeofArrival:ageatwhichacandidatearrivedinIsrael,i.e., At theendofTzavRishon,acandidate’sdraftdateandlengthservicearedetermined.Length of described below. terms ofmilitaryservice,andreceiverecognitionasalonesoldier–statusthathasmanyprivileges, an armysocialworker)atLishkatHagiyus(recruitmentoffice)toestablisheligibilityforlenienciesin one’s Candidates whomadeAliyahwithouttheirparentsshouldmeetwithaMashakitTash(theequivalent of Interview Regarding theSoldiers’ ConditionsofMilitary Service Ra’ayon Tash approve ordisqualifyanexceptiontoserveininfantryunitismadebythearmy’smedicalstaff. taken intoconsiderationbutareconsideredjustasanopinionorrecommendation;theactualdecision to combat roledespitehavinganexistingmedicalissue.Medicaldocumentsfromthecandidate’sdoctor are specialist’s recommendation–whichshouldprovidedetailsaboutwhythecandidatecanserveina can submitarequesttobeconsideredasanexception.Thisshouldsubmittedwithmedical Note thatacandidatewhowantstoserveintheinfantryandwhosemedicalprofileisnothighenough disqualified fromservice.TheLSPteamishappytoprovideassistanceinsubmittingtherequestMeitav. The candidate’shealthsituationchangedandheorshemustupdatethemilitarysystem. candidate believesotherwise. Where acandidatewasdeemedunfitformilitaryserviceoranysecurity-relatedandthe The candidatebelievesthattheassignedprofiledoesnotmatchtheirqualifications. Process ofClassification Being anOnly ChildintheIDF together withotherwomen,andHebrewfluency (summons). TestsatYomHameahareconducted mandatory foranyonewhoreceivedaZimun Please notethatparticipationinthisdayis task optimally. to theparticipantsandhelpthemcompleteeach guidance throughouttheday,giveinstructions different situations.Trainedcounselorsprovide and thecharacteristicsthatcomeintoplayin goal ofthesetestsistoevaluateone’spersonality station, agroupdiscussionandmore.The a stationforpersonalsimulations,lecturing station thatincludeslightphysicalexercises, computerized testsandparticipateatanactivity Throughout theday,candidatestake score, andcanopenupadditionalpositions. personal information,Kabascore,andDapar of theYomHameahareaddedtoacandidate’s expressed duringtheTzavRishon.Theresults and demonstrateabilitiesthatmaynothavebeen to displayone’spersonaltalentsandcapabilities (adjustment). Thisisanadditionalopportunity (evaluation), Itur(location),andHatama Yom Hame’ahisanacronymforMiyun WOMEN –YOMHAME’AH can continuetheacceptanceprocessforvariousunits: A candidatewithsufficientHebrewfluency–i.e.,whoisexemptfromtakingacourseintheIDF private lawyer. service oftheirsonordaughter inacombatunit,atthelocalIsraeli Consulateorinfrontofa Parents ofanonlychild wholiveoverseascanmakethisdeclaration, inwhichtheyapprovethe (Mak/Makit), andOperationalSecurityEvaluatorin TransferBattalions. without obtainingthissignature,including:AirDefense CommandFighters,OfficersforRecruitSquads Note thattherearecombatpositionsinwhichone canserve(ifthecandidatehasappropriateprofie) declaration shouldbesignedinfrontofonethe lawyerslistedonMitgaisim. of acivilianlawyerandsenditbyemail.Ifcandidate isnotintouchwithoneofhisorherparents,the Welfare orthecommanderofrecruitmentcenter. Alternatively,onecansignthedeclarationinfront form, bringittotherecruitmentcenter,andsign declarationinfrontoftheDirectorIndividual of hisorherparentsandthesignaturealawyer. Tosubmitthisrequest,onemustfilloutavolunteer wants toserveinacombatunitmustsubmitrequest tobeinthecombatforcesandobtainsignature regulations, anonlychildcannotserveinacombatpositionwithouttheparents’consent.An who men andwomen,despitethefactthatHebrewtermisinmasculineform.Accordingtomilitary An onlychildtooneorbothparentsisdefinedbytheIDFasaBenYachid. plays asignificantrole. Sayeret Matkal,Shayetet13,andothers) is appropriateforthecandidate(Shaldag,669, (continued evaluationforaparticularunitthat successfully isaskedtojoinGibusheiHemshech A candidatewhocompletesaYomSayarot submit aspecialrequest,whichwillbeconsidered. a YomSayarotduetolackofcompatibilitycan dates. Anyonewhowasnotcalledtoparticipatein status andpersonalstatus,basedontheirdraft Sayarot iftheyhavetheappropriatemedical Candidates arecalledtoparticipateinaYom assessed forspecialforcecombatpositions. succeed inaYomSayarotwillthencontinuetobe physical andmentalcapabilities.Candidateswho days withphysicalteststhatassessacandidate’s combat unitsmustparticipateinevaluation Anyone whoisinterestedinjoiningspecialforces MEN –YOMSADEH(YOMSAYAROT) Candidates shouldconductMiyunim(evaluations)inaway that clearlyreflectswhotheyaresotheIDFcandetermine Program teamprovidesassistanceateverystage.Donot what militaryserviceismostsuitable.TheLoneSoldiers Tip fromtheLoneSoldiersProgram hesitate toaskquestions,weareherehelp! The termappliestoboth 11 Process of Classification 12  Process of Classification They cannotbeofanageat completed highschooloverseas. Israeli citizenshipandmusthave To beeligible,candidatesneed to completeacademicstudies. request todelaybeingdrafted army areentitledtosubmita degree beforeservinginthe Olim whowanttoobtaina ATUDAT OLIM Academic Study Recruitment Tracks Involving • • THEIR PLACEMENTS: WHICH CANDIDATESRECEIVE THERE ARESEVERALWAYSIN Determining JobPLACEMENT initial requestforapprovalof Olim involvessubmittingan acceptance processtoAtudat request apostponement.The of morethanhalfayearcan who mustdoarmyservice of ayear.Onlythosecandidates eligible foradraftpostponement a preparatorycourseforOlimare arrival.) Candidateswhoattended is relevantherethedateof differ fromdateofAliyah.What in Israel.(Dateofarrivalmay a halfafterthedateofarrival studies notmorethanayearand service. Candidatesmustbegin which theyareexemptfromIDF whether heorsheissent to interview determines level ishighenough,an If theindividual’sHebrew explanation, below.) course atMichveAlon.(See to theHebrew-language low, heorshewillbesent has beendeterminedtobe If acandidate’sHebrewlevel • to one’sfield,acandidatemust study. are relevanttotheirfieldsof candidates inpositionsthat army isnotrequiredtoplace areas inwhichtheystudied. professional officers(Kama)inthe suitability toserveasacademic, invited toaninterviewassess Those whomeetthecriteriaare a degreeobtainedabroad). of Educationrecognition has aTeudatShkilut(Ministry a degreefromoverseasand degree inIsrael,orwhoobtained obtained anundergraduate This isdesignedforanyonewho ACADEMIZATION must bedrafted. end theirstudiesforanyreason they areregistered.Studentswho the academicinstitutionwhere submit anacceptanceletterfrom each year.Candidatesmustalso Meitav byemail,August1of postponement ofthedraftto studies andaformrequesting the positionsthateach The questionnairelists on theMitgaisimwebsite. fills outaquestionnaire language courseorMoledet need totakeaHebrew- A candidatewhodoesnot course begins. finalized basedonwhenthe Moledet, thedraftdateis service. Ifthecandidateneeds Olim receivepreparationfor Moledet, acourseinwhich Tobe in a position relevant The have theappropriateprofile. This trackisforcandidateswho academic institutioninIsrael. service inordertostudyan postpone regularmilitary Through thistrack,candidates ATUDA AKADEMIT contact MeitavthroughMitgaisim. placed intheAcademizationtrack, of timeinitiallyestablished.Tobe Keva; theyonlyservethelength their fieldsdonotneedto are notinpositionsrelatedto a highersalary).Candidateswho during whichcandidatesreceive service andKeva(extratime, period thatincludesmandatory commit toservingfora5-year (aeronautical engineering). material engineering)andSilon Barakim (mechanicalor and PhysicsEngineering), studies), Pesagot(Electrical include: Tzameret(medical elite tracksofAtudaAkademit B.Sc. priortobeingdrafted.The Candidates canobtainaB.A.or where eachsoldierisbased. decision ismaderegarding after basictraining,thatthe or shereceived.It’snotuntil message withthepositionhe candidate receivesanSMS before thedraftdate,each About amonthandhalf to personalpreference. rate thepositionsaccording and allowshimorherto candidate isbeingoffered Determination of the Draft Date

The draft is scheduled to take the draft date is primarily based family members); medical issues place a year after an Oleh’s on where candidates are placed requiring attention; academic arrival in Israel. This year is and the draft times established studies; vacations; or other referred to as Shnat Histaglut, for that year. important personal reasons that and it gives Olim time to adapt prevent a candidate from being The draft date is established after and become familiar with Israel drafted on the determined date. completion of the Tzav Rishon. and the Hebrew language. The Any Oleh who needs to postpone However, the date provided is determination of the draft date the date of draft day can ask the an initial date and it may change also takes into consideration a LSP team for help in submitting multiple times to meet the person’s family status. However, this request to Meitav. army’s needs or sometimes due Olim who do not want to delay to changes in the candidate’s the draft date can submit a capabilities. Each time the date is IMPORTANT! request to shorten the Shnat changed, an updated Tzav Giyus – Histaglut. The IDF allows travel abroad as a letter that provides information long as enlistees return to Israel The IDF has three main draft about the candidate’s draft day – at least three days before the periods. Each period continues for is sent by mail to the candidate’s draft date. Travel is only allowed approximately two months: July– address. If several Tzav Giyus if there are no mandatory August, November–December, letters are received, the one with evaluations or other and March–April. The principle the latest date is the one that is mandatory activities during that guides the IDF in determining relevant. The final, most updated the time a candidate is meant draft dates is that whoever was draft date is generally determined to be abroad. Candidates who born earlier should be drafted about 45 days before the draft, meets this requirement can travel earlier – although the draft dates depending on the candidate’s at any time without obtaining primarily are determined based placement. special authorization from Lishkat on the army’s needs. For IDF A draft date can be moved (earlier Hagiyus (IDF recruitment center). candidates from abroad, the or later) for a variety of reasons, system is slightly different, and such as: family events (for close

13 14  Process of Classification • • Just BeforetheDraft • • • • soldiers receivethefollowing: the enlistmentprocess,new On theirdraftdayduring NEW SOLDIERSRECEIVE: Just beforeagroupdraft RECRUITMENT PARTY more. rights oflonesoldiers,and the Hebrew-languagecourse, information aboutthedraft, and Spanish–thatprovide – English,Russian,French, year inseverallanguages preparatory seminarseach The LSPteamruns BEFORE BEINGDRAFTED PREPARATORY SEMINAR– process anddistribute information aboutthedraft They provideadditional Olim whoarebeingdrafted. a quickget-togetherforthe date, theLSPteamorganizes other soldiers) support units;3pairsfor a soldierincombat/combat Uniform pants(2pairsfor women’s shoes) Shoes (infantry/fieldunits/ Coat Kit bag

• • • • • • • Lock Pepper spray only) kit forsoldiersinfieldunits Soldiers’ kit(andanadditional Beret Belt units; 3forothersoldiers) in combat/combatsupport Uniform shirt(2forasoldier in difficultcircumstances soldiers whofindthemselves that providesassistanceto an emergencyfund,aswell, months). Notethatwehave IDF serviceofatleast18 lone soldier;andarequired Olah whoisaclassifiedas (recognition asanewOlehor army andmeetthecriteria to allOlimwhoenlistinthe pre-draft financialgrants is theonlyprogramoffering cooperation withtheFIDF, Soldiers Program,runin The NefeshB’NefeshLone EACH NEWRECRUIT FINANCIAL GRANTSFOR financial grants.

is availablehere. purchase withtheKokhavimcard A list(inHebrew)ofwhatto of timeusingtheKochavimcard? what dotheyneedtobuyahead the enlistmentprocess–and receive ontheirdraftdayduring What equipmentdonewsoldiers equipment. soldiers receivetherestoftheir their firstdayintheIDF, army beforebeingdrafted.On equipment theyneedforthe them topurchasewhatever card fromtheIDFthatallows All recruitsreceiveaKochavim Draft DayontheLSPwebsite. For additionalinformation,see • • • during theirmilitaryservice. support units) not incombat/combat (not receivedbywomen Rubber bandsforshoes Scarf Fleece gloves The “Stars Card” Candidates that will be recruited to the Security Service, from July QUANTITY OF STARS AND ELIGIBILITY DATES: 2017 onwards, will be able to use Kravi (Combat) Combat Support Home Front the IDF’s “Stars Card” to purchase personal equipment according to Before recruitment 215 215 215 their preferences with a budget After One Month 815 335 - that have been adjusted by the After One Year 485 145 - existing needs. Stars 1,515 stars 695 stars 215 stars

The launching of the “Stars” card Shekel Equivalent 2,020 Shekels 927 Shekels 287 Shekels is a big step in the IDF equipment Eligibility can be exercised until the day of discharge from the IDF. revolution, as part of a complete trend to improve the conditions of service of IDF soldiers. additional “stars” and their AFTER RECRUITMENT (FOR specific type. KRAVI (COMBAT) AND COMBAT The digital card will accompany SUPPORT ONLY): the recruit from the pre- In the event that a recruiter does • Sports Shoes recruitment stage and during not actually enlist and have used • Anti- bacterial socks the first year of the IDF, through the “stars,” in part or in all, the • T-shirts (green) which he will be able to purchase IDF may demand the cost of the • Thermal set (shirt and pants)- equipment in civilian networks “stars” back. Kravi- 3 sets, Combat Support- 2 from a variety of quality items at WHAT “STARS” EXIST AND WHAT sets their best price. IS THE ANNUAL ENTITLEMENT? • Towel PROCESSING OF THE CARD: 1. “Personal Stars” are designed • Underwear About 14 days before the date to enable the purchase of The purchase of shoes for underwear (underwear, tank of recruitment, the recruiter will Combat soldiers by the stars will tops, socks, etc.) and winter receive a message to their mobile be available from March 2018. items. phone regarding the entitlement Today, it is possible to purchase to the “stars card”, the recruiter 2. “Stars Sport” - designed to enable the purchase of sports shoes with a military will enter the link attached in equipment, clothing and voucher the message and approve the sports shoes for maintaining regulations. Afterwards, the physical fitness and health recruiter will receive an additional (starting March 2018). message in which a link to the 3. Points of money (private digital card containing the “stars” money) - allows you to receive budget will be used. In this way, discounts for purchases from the recruiter will be able to reach your own money in the terms the marketing networks to which of the policy. the card is intended, display the digital card with an identification PURCHASES BEFORE card, and purchase the various RECRUITMENT: types of equipment through the (Items that the IDF recommends “stars” budget. purchasing in the framework of WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE the “Stars” will not be given at the CARD? Bakum:) The eligibility of the card will be • White/Green T-shirts- 4 units handed out to every soldier and (recommended at least one will be determined by his needs, green occasionally, gender and job title • 5 units of socks (recommended will be taking in consideration. 3 anti- bacterial) A soldier who is entitled to • Towel additional stars will receive a • Underwear message with details of the 15 Draft Day The Tsav Giyus (notification of the draft date) is received in the mail. The notification states where to go, and at what time. There are 5 draft locations in Israel: Tiberias, Haifa, Tel Hashomer, Jerusalem, and Be’er Sheva. Time at Lishkat Hagiyus (IDF recruitment office) is an opportunity for the new soldiers to give some attention to any family members or friends who may have come with them to Lishkat Hagiyus, to take a deep breath – and then, off they go. Next, the recruits are taken on buses and they are generally a little disoriented and nervous at this point. This is not a cause for concern; everyone is in the same situation. The buses take them to an absorption area at the Tel Hashomer base where they start the enlistment process. ARMY SERVICE The Enlistment Process During the course of the out their personal details: full organization and while it enlistment process, the soldiers name, telephone, address, tries to take into account go through ten stations. marital status, and more. the wishes of soldiers to the 1. X-rays of the mouth and They must provide bank extent possible, the needs of teeth: This is done for account details for their IDF the army always come first. the purpose of providing salaries to be transferred on 10. Logistics center: Soldiers identification in emergency an ongoing basis. They are receive their equipment situations. This is a simple also asked to sign four forms. for the next two or three process and it does not hurt. years – from their uniforms Important Note: The 2. Immunizations: The soldiers (pants and shirts) to their bank account must be an receive three immunizations shoes and beret. A full Israeli account. It is highly for hepatitis, tetanus, and list is provided above. All meningitis. recommended to open an soldiers are required to Israeli account before being wear the items provided by 3. DNA samples: Each soldier drafted. the army and nothing else. has blood taken in order to It is absolutely forbidden to provide DNA samples. 8. Receiving Diskit (dog tag) purchase items of clothing 4. Photograph face and profile: and Choger (soldier’s ID): (uniform, sweater, coat, The picture that’s taken is Each soldier receives a etc.) in civilian stores. It is used for several purposes Teudat Choger which has important to purchase all of including the Teudat Choger a photograph, personal the additional equipment (soldier’s ID). Note that you number, recruitment date, that’s necessary before are allowed to have your Israeli identity number, and being drafted, using the photograph taken just once. more. Each soldier also Kochavim card. 5. Fingerprinting: A special receives a diskit, which must At the end of the draft process, machine is used to scan be worn whenever in uniform. the soldiers are taken by bus to the fingerprints of each 9. Placement officer: The their training base. They have soldier. Fingerprinting is soldiers meet with a finished being enlisted in the important in order to provide placement officer who IDF! definitive identification where determines the job Note: We recommend that necessary. placement of any soldier soldiers do not bring anything of 6. Bone marrow donation: who has not been assigned a value with them, on the day that Soldiers are asked if they are placement. Soldiers can tell they are drafted. This includes interested in donating bone the placement officer their laptops, significant amounts of marrow when necessary. opinions about whatever cash, etc. We also recommend Those who choose to donate placements have already that they bring locks for their their bone marrow simply been determined. A soldier personal bags, and phone fill out a short medical who is not happy with a chargers. questionnaire and provide a placement should inform the saliva sample. Donation is not officer – though there is no compulsory, but it is highly guarantee that the placement appreciated. will be changed. Keep in 16 7. Validating data: Soldiers fill mind that the army is a large 17 18 ARMY SERVICE with Israelicitizenship.RecognitionasBneiMehagrimisdoneviatheconsulateinone’scountryof with hisorherparentsbeforereaching16yearsofage,someonebornabroadtoaparent(orparents) Bnei Mehagrim(childrenofemigrants)isatermthatreferstosomeonewhowasborninIsraelandleft IN ISRAELUNTILMAY2015,ANDFORBNEIMEHAGRIM. REGULAR SERVICEFORMEN(EXCEPTDOCTORSANDDENTISTS)WHOARRIVED The followingtablesprovidedetailsaboutthelengthofregularserviceforOlimbasedonagearrival: Length ofserviceisalsoaffectedbyaperson’sfamilystatusatthetimerecruitment. each visit. Age ofarrivalisdeterminedbasedonanOleh’sentriesandexitstoIsrael,aswellthelengthstay age whenapersonmadeAliyah.Itistheatwhichheorshebegansignificant,long-termstayinIsrael. The lengthofserviceisdeterminedbyeachOleh’sagearrival.arrivalnotnecessarilythe Length ofService ofNewOlimintheIDF Married women areexemptfromservice. NOTES: REGULAR SERVICEFORWOMENWHOARRIVED INISRAELUNTILMAY2015: emergency . The term“Reserves”indicatesthattheOlehisnot drafted butpotentiallycouldbeduringan Men age30andaboveareexemptfromservice. Married menwithoneormorechildrenareexempt fromservice. NOTES: residence orbysubmittingarequesttoMeitav. Up to age 20 Age ofArrival inIsrael 26-29 26-29 22-25 22-25 22-25 22-25 20-21 20-21 20-21 18-19 18-19 Age ofArrival inIsrael Single Family Status Married Single Married Single Married Single Married Married Single Married Single Family Status 45-97 45-97 45-97 Medical Profile 24 months ofservice Length ofService 45-97 45-97 45-64 45-64 72-97 72-97 45-64 72-97

24 months ofservice 18 months ofservice 30 months ofservice Length ofService Reserves Reserves Reserves Reserves 6 months ofservice 6 months ofservice Reserves 6 months ofservice REGULAR SERVICE FOR MEN (EXCEPT FOR DOCTORS AND DENTISTS) WHO ARRIVED IN ISRAEL AFTER MAY 2015:

Age of Arrival in Israel Family Status Length of Service

18-19 Single 32 months of service

18-19 Married 24 months of service

20-21 Single 24 months of service

20-21 Married 18 months of service

22-27 Single Volunteer service for 18 months

22-27 Married Volunteer service for minimum 18 months

NOTES: Married men who have one or more children are exempt from service. Men who are 28 and older cannot submit a request to do the volunteer work.

LENGTH OF REGULAR SERVICE FOR WOMEN WHO ARRIVED IN ISRAEL AFTER MAY 2015

Age of Arrival in Israel Family Status Length of Service

18-19 Single 24 months of service

20 Single 12 months of service

21-27 Single Volunteer service for minimum 12 months NOTES: Married women are exempt from service. Women who have one child or more are exempt from service. Women who are 28 and older cannot submit a request to do volunteer work. Request to Extend Service

New Olim who have been drafted to combat units, and new Olim who have been drafted to fields included in Regulations Section 16A, are required to extend their service to 24 months. This extra time is referred to as Shasan (Sherut Sadir Nosaf) – additional regular service – and is a condition for assignment to these positions. Olim asked to join elite units and those joining Gadsar and Palsar also require an extension of service and are required to do Shasan. For information about the length of service of doctors and dentists, see the Physicians page on the Nefesh B’Nefesh website. Additional information about length of service is available through: • Mitgaisim • Nefesh B’Nefesh

19 20 ARMY SERVICE • • • There aredifferentcategoriesofserviceintheIDF: Types ofService intheIDF do participate incombattraining(atsome level)inthecourseof theirmilitaryservice. Please notethat mostsoldiersservein positionsthatdonotinvolve combatoperations – yet,themajority • • HOME FRONTCOMMAND • • • COMBAT FORCES IDF Array Structure • • Olim mayberequiredtotakethefollowingcourses: Special CoursesforOlim activities, andenlargingtheavailableforcesduringwartime. reserve forces.TheIDFcallsupciviliansforactivedutybasedonneed–training,ongoingdefense RESERVE SERVICE service. Soldiersinpermanentservicereceiveahighersalarythanthoseregular serves anadditionaltimeperiod,asdescribedinthecontract,andisdefinedasoldierpermanent is acontractualagreementbetweenthepersonservingandIDF.Inserviceofthiskind,soldier PERMANENT SERVICE COMPULSORY (ORREGULAR)SERVICE part ofmilitary operations,atrisktotheir lives. Research &Development. Occasionally,fordefinedperiodsoftime,these soldiers arerequiredtobe on theHomeFront;these include:Logistics,Armament,ComputerandCyber-Related Positions,and PIKUD HA’OREF(HOMEFRONT COMMAND): not combat. TOMCHEI LEHIMA(COMBATSUPPORT): intelligence, andadministration. at risktotheirlivesinpositionsthatinvolveproviding supporttocommand&controlsystems, TOMCHEI LEHIMA(COMBATSUPPORT): at risktothesoldiers’lives. enemy isattackeddirectlyoraspartofacollective effortinmissionsinvolvingtheuseofweapons,and LOHEM (COMBATSOLDIER): operations inwhichtheenemyisattackedusingspecial maneuvers,atrisktothesoldiers’lives. LOHEM CHOD(SOLDIERINTHEADVANCEDFORCES): his orherindividualIDFprofile. with aplacementofficerwhodeterminestheirplacementsintheIDF.Eachsoldier’sreflects connection eachsoldierfeelstothelandofIsraelandIDFservice.Duringcourse,soldiersmeet decision madeduringaZikainterviewatLishkatHagiyus(IDFRecruitmentCenter)whichexploresthe The courselastsfiveweeksanditismandatoryforanyonewhotheIDFdeterminesshouldtakeit,a to thelandofIsraelinordereasetheirintegrationintoarmysystemandIsraelisociety. of thecourseistostrengthensoldiers’feelingsbelongingandincreasetheirsenseconnection MOLEDET (HERITAGECOURSE) course, andtheirHebrewlevel. Placements reflecttheindividualcapabilitiesofeachOleh,abilitiestheydemonstrateduring the course,soldiersmeetwithaplacementofficerwhodeterminestheirplacementsinIDF. and learn–inadditiontoHebrewlanguageskillstopicsincludingZionism,safety,more.During medium level.Thecourselaststwoorthreemonths,duringwhichtimethesoldiersdobasictraining HEBREW COURSEATMICHVEALON –Aftercompletingregularservice,somesoldiersareassignedapositioninthe – Service in the IDF in cases where, upon completion of mandatory service,there These soldiersaretrainedtohandlemilitaryoperations –inwhichthe –SoldiersinMoledetstudytopicsrelatedtoIsraeliheritage.Thegoal – ThiscourseisdesignedforOlimwhoseHebrewatalowto –IDFserviceasmandatedbytheIsraelDefenseServiceLaw. Soldierswhoserveatthefront,butwhosemainfunction is These soldiersaretrainedtohandlemilitaryoperations Soldiersbelongingtounits whosemainfunctionis These soldiersaretrainedtohandlemilitary Types of Positions in the IDF COMBAT POSITIONS The IDF assigns combat positions to any men who are deemed fit for combat and to any women who are interested and are deemed fit for combat. The following is a description of the process for combat soldiers: • TIRONUT (BASIC TRAINING): The initial time period for all IDF soldiers is a training process that aims to prepare each soldier for military service. Basic training begins on draft day after the completion of the enlistment process. During basic training, new soldiers must adapt to military life and to a military approach according to which every action must be done in coordination with officers and with their approval. Soldiers must follow military law and obey their officers and the military command chain. • GIBUSHIM (TRYOUTS): During basic training, soldiers can opt to do tryouts for one of the elite units in the battalion. A soldier who succeeds in a tryout is placed in a separate unit together with other soldiers who also succeeded in the tryout. This unit continues separately from the rest of the battalion, receiving more intense and advanced training. Tryouts are not relevant for those soldiers who have already been placed in pre-military tryouts. The IDF has levels of combat riflery from 03 to 12, where each number (from lowest to highest) represents an increasingly difficult level of skill. Starting at level 05, the combat soldiers receive more advanced training after their initial training period. To reach levels 07, 08, 10, or 12, soldiers must first complete training for 03 or 05. For the higher levels of riflery skill, soldiers must receive authorization for active combat warfare – something that involves difficult training exercises including night navigation, completing lengthy marches in the field, learning survival skills in the field, and practicing combat in developed areas. • IMUN MITKADEM (ADVANCED TRAINING): An additional step in the training process of combat soldiers that begins after the completion of basic training. At this stage, soldiers receive between 12 and 16 weeks of advanced training, designed to prepare them for riflery level 07. In advanced training, soldiers undergo even longer marches, weeks of advanced firing practice, Lashab (practicing combat in developed areas) weeks, and many weeks of exercises in the field. The goal of advanced training is to improve physical fitness, develop a sense of teamwork within the unit and the company, gain practice in handling longer marches, and gain experience with different discipline and training exercises. Advanced training ends with the Masa Kumta march, at the end of which soldiers receive their corps beret. COMBAT SUPPORT The IDF assigns Home Front Command positions to men who have the appropriate profile and are deemed suitable for the placement, and to women who have not been assigned combat positions. The process for soldiers in the Home Front Command involves: • TIRONUT (BASIC TRAINING): Basic training is the initial time period in the IDF – a process that aims to prepare each soldier for his or her military service. Soldiers in the Home Front Command are required to do basic training, after which there is a swearing-in ceremony in which the soldiers swear allegiance to the IDF (details below). • HAKHSHARA MIKTSO’IT (PROFESSIONAL TRAINING): After basic training, soldiers participate in a basic course that prepares them for the roles they were assigned. The length of the training depends on the position. It is important to note that not all soldiers receive professional training in a course. Some are taught their job responsibilities by more experienced soldiers in the unit in which they are placed. Throughout military service, soldiers spend some of their weekends on the base. If you want to send them food or equipment, you can do so through Kaveret, the delivery service of a convenience store chain called 21 Yachad Lemaan Hachayal. 22 ARMY SERVICE “I swearandcommittomaintainallegiancetheStateofIsrael,itslaws, The followingisthewordingofoaththatsoldierssay: receive theirpersonalweaponsduringtheceremony. about andacclimatingtolifeinthearmy.Incombatunits,soldiers soldiers completeashortperiodofbasictraining,learning Hashba’ah isacelebratoryceremonythatusuallytakesplaceafter a practicethatiscommoninarmiesaroundtheworld.TheTekes ceremony. IntheIDF,eachsoldiermustswearallegiancetocountry, The firstceremonyisusuallytheTekesHashba’ah,swearing-in TEKES HASHBA’AH Military Service Main EventsDuring [email protected] who meetthedefinedcriteria.Forinformation,be intouchwithusat: subsidizes anumberofflightstotheTekesKumta forparentsofsoldiers other soldiersintheunit.NefeshB’Nefesh,cooperation withElAl, a toastforthelonesoldiers,whichtakesplaceseparately withoutthe congratulatory messages,etc.Insomeceremonies, officersconduct food forthesoldiersandtheirfriends,favoritesfoods, tee-shirtswith but soldiers’familiesandfriendscomewithcongratulatory signsand experience attheseceremonies.Theyareofficial militaryceremonies, It ishelpfultoknowwhatexpectandunderstand theIsraeli TIP FROMTHELSPTEAM: Hakhshara –generallywiththeparticipationofsoldiers’families. there isanofficialgraduationceremony–TekesSiyumMaslul/Siyum For allIDFtrainingtracks,atthecompletionofprocess TEKES SIYUMMASLUL/SIYUMHAKHSHARA ceremony atAmmunitionHillinJerusalem. Brigade MemorialinAfulaandtheParatroopershas Kumta. Forexample,theKfirBrigadehasceremonyat Each corpsorunithasasetlocationinwhichitconductstheTekes the mostexceptionalsoldiers. or sheisserving.Thecustomforofficerstogivetheirownberets receives aberetinthespecificcolorofcorpsorbrigadewhichhe the endofbasictrainingoradvancedtraining.Eachsoldier is whencombatsoldiersreceivetheircorpsberets.Itmaytakeplaceat This ceremony,whichfollowstheMasaKumta(“MarchofBeret”), An additionalceremonyistheTekesKumta,or“CeremonyofBeret.” TEKES KUMTA my life,fortheprotectionofhomelandandlibertyIsrael.” authorized commanders,andtodevoteallmyenergies,evensacrifice the IsraelDefenseForces,toobeyallordersandinstructionsgivenby and itsauthorities,toacceptuponmyselfunconditionallythedisciplineof 23 24 ARMY SERVICE brigade ofeachsoldier. beret andindicatesthecorps or and othertimes.Apinadornsthe of acourse,onMemorialDay, end ofbasictraining,atthe events. Thesecaninclude:atthe beret atspecialceremoniesand Customarily, soldiersfirstdonthe part ofthesoldier’suniform. or sectionsoftheIDF,anditis soldier belongstospecificcorps wear it.Aberetindicatesthata in ordertoearntheright march dozensofkilometers soldiers indifferenttrackswill is asourceofpride,andcombat of anIDFcorpsorunit.Theberet the mostnoticeableindications The coloroftheberetisone and Pins Berets, Symbols ofUnitsandBrigades, • • • • • • • • beret belongingtohisorherunit. training, eachsoldierreceivesthe Force andNavy).Attheendof (except forsoldiersintheAir receive anolive-greenberet On DraftDay,allnewrecruits Blue: MilitaryPolice Corps Light yellow:FieldIntelligence Light gray:EngineeringCorps Dark gray:AirForce Black: ArmorCorps and BorderPolice Dark green:IntelligenceCorps Dark blue:NavyCorps the generalcorps Olive: Soldiersintrainingand • • • • • • • Leopard: KfirBrigade Sayeret Matkal Commando Brigadeand Red: ParatroopersBrigade, Brigades Gadsar (DesertPatrol) Purple: GivatiandDesert Brown: GolaniBrigade Cyber Staff Communications Divisionand Dark turquoise: Command Orange: HomeFront Turquoise: ArtilleryCorps Badges of Each Unit

Pins of Special Units

25 26 Medical and Mental Health soldier ischeckedbyamedicwhocanprovidereferraltotherelevantdoctorifnecessary.Onlysenior A soldierwhofeelsunwellcangotoacliniconthebasewhereheorsheservesisstationed.There, Medical ClinicoftheUnit professional withoutareferralfromanIDFdoctorwillbechargedfortheservice. been approvedbytheIsraeliMinistryofHealth.Notethatanysoldierwhoapproachesacivilianmedical suspended. Medicalserviceisprovidedfreeofchargeandincludesthebasketmedicationsthathas need ishandledbytheIDFMedicalCorps.Thesoldier’sassociationwithacivilianhealthcareprogram Beginning onDraftDayandendingwhenasoldierisreleasedfromtheIDF,allmedicalcaremight Health oftheSoldiers Caring fortheMedicalandMental sending thesoldier home. Yom Betdaysaregivenfor lightmedicalsituationsthatneedrestinorderto recoverbutthatdon’trequire soldier torestonthebase inwhichheorsheserves,anditprovidesexemption fromvariousactivities. Yom Betdaysareadifferent kindofrestthatadoctorisentitledtorecommend. AYomBetauthorizesthe Yom Bet Yom GimelstartingonSunday soldiers whoreceivetwodaysof the nextmorning;forexample, Gimel continuesuntil8:00am Gimel whileonbase.AYom go homeiftheyreceiveaYom duties. Soldiersareallowedto performance ofone’smilitary condition thatpreventsthe due toanillnessoramedical a soldierisentitledtostayhome Yom Gimelisadayduringwhich provided bytheGeneralStaff,a According tothedefinition Yom Gimel soldiers. Theycangrantsickdaysorrestandprovideprescriptionsformedication. Bikur RofehclinicsaretheonlycivilianmedicalresourceauthorizedtoprovidecareforIDF address ofeachclinic,see:www.bikurofe.co.il/soldiers beginning intheeveninghours.TheclinicsarelocatedthroughoutIsrael.Foropeninghoursand street A soldierwhoisnotonhisorherbasecangotooneoftheBikurRofehclinicsreceivemedicalcare Bikur RofehMedicalClinics urgent casesorotherconstraints. 24 hoursofsubmittingarequest.However,doctormaypostponetheappointmentduetoother,more medical authorityisauthorizedtograntasoldiersickleave.Ahastherightseedoctorwithin Yom Gimeldaysanddoctor’s her officer–i.e.formsregarding received fromthedoctortohisor doctor andmustgivetheforms Bikur Rofehclinicortotheunit’s she canphysicallyreturntothe soldier isnotfeelingbetter,heor base byTuesdayat8:00am.Ifthe at 10:00ammustreturntothe is determinedattheclinicand the officermustrespectwhatever soldier receivesaYomGimmel, to theregulations,ondaya recommendations. According soldier backforadditionaltests. medical authoritymaysenda date. Incertainsituations,a postpone thesoldier’srelease of militaryserviceanddonot days. Theseareconsidereddays days donotcountasvacation or herhealthstatus.YomGimel to returnhomebecauseofhis and thesoldierisnotallowed Yom Gimelappliestotheunit there aresituationsinwhicha return tothebase.However, not demandthatthesoldier Extreme Situations In extreme situations such In these situations, and after 03-948-9999 or *6690. The as a car accident or a serious receiving approval from the hotline operates throughout the deterioration in a soldier’s medical professionals in the unit, year at all hours of the day. In medical situation – i.e. situations the IDF will fund the soldier’s the unusual situation in which a in which the soldier cannot hospitalization and the care soldier goes to the emergency travel to a Bikur Rofeh clinic received at the hospital. room without a referral and because of its limited hours or Soldiers who are not sure if a it turns out that the visit to because no clinic is near his or situation requires going to the the emergency room was not her home – the soldier is entitled emergency room can consult justified, the soldier is required to to go to the emergency room with the hotline of the Medical pay for the hospital fees using his in a hospital without a referral. Corps, Mekol Halev, by dialing or her personal money (830 NIS). Moked Mi Kol ha-Lev -IDF Medical Service (מקול הלב) An appointment can be made via your personal account on a military computer or using the Medical Corps’ Mikol HaLev call center *6690 After enlisting in the IDF, soldiers are moved from your civilian health care system into the Military Medical System. The IDF Medical Corps offers various medical services in addition to treating urgent cases such as illness or injury. english/rights-and-obligations/general-medical-services/כתבות/English Website: www.mitgaisim.idf.il Additional Situations When Soldiers Should Go to the Emergency Room 1. If a doctor checked a soldier physical examination or examination, or associated in a military clinic or Bikur using images and showing examinations ,and Rofeh clinic and decided characteristic symptoms documented in the to send the soldier to the • A wound requiring stitches emergency room or by emergency room for medical or another method of MADA (the Israeli Red reasons such as a suspected connection or fusion Cross) in cases where a illness, a particular check, or soldier was sent to the • Where a foreign object an emergency situation. emergency room by has been inhaled into the ambulance 2. If the unit’s clinic and the respiratory system local Bikur Rofeh branch are • Treatment for oncology • Where a foreign object closed, and the Mekol Halev patients in the emergency penetrates the eye hotline (*6690) provides room • Angina pectoris authorization by phone to go • Acute asthma attack; to the emergency room. • Loss of consciousness established by means of 3. By law, soldiers who suffer established by means of a physical examination or from one of the following a physical examination, a associated examinations, problems should go to the lab test or using images, and showing characteristic emergency room (without and showing characteristic symptoms symptoms. receiving prior approval): • Treatment for any soldier • Any new fracture • A seizure, showing injured in a military car characteristic symptoms, • Acute dislocation of joints crash and identified through established by means of a anamnesis, a physical 27 28 Medical and Mental Health emergency room. presented bythesoldierat This documentationshouldbe covers thecostoftreatment. (budgetary authorization)that with anAsmachtaTaktzivit a doctor,thesoldierarrives room afterbeingreferredby is treatedintheemergency per visit,atpresent.Ifasoldier emergency roomis830NIS The costoftreatmentinthe Payment forEmergency RoomTreatment Gimel days,shouldgo–atthe who receives6ormoreYom accepted bytheIDF.Asoldier doctors atthehospitalarefully Yom Gimeldaysgrantedby Than 6Days of“Yom Gimel”? What HappensIfaSoldierReceivesMore number ofsickdaysmightbe soldier whoreceivesasignificant a dayatanylargehospital.A to Ram2,whichisopen24hours end ofthehospitalizationperiod– Soldiers areresponsiblefortaking IMPORTANT: receive budgetaryauthorization. to ensurecontinuedcareand her unitwithin48hours–both treatment) totheclinicforhisor (which arereceivedattheendof forms fromtheemergencyroom above), heorshemustsubmitthe reasons coveredbylaw(listed emergency roomforoneofthe When asoldieristreatedatthe

ensure thecontinuityofmedical care andfollow-up,inorderto placed atRam2forcontinued at thehospital. that thedocumentwasreceived hospital. Itisimportanttoconfirm be personallydeliveredtothe sent byfaxoremail,itcan by theunitdoctorshouldbe Budgetary authorizationprovided take careofthisforthesoldiers. room care.TheIDFdoesnot regarding thecostofemergency care ofanyhospitalpaperwork care. Psychological Care – The Kaban (Mental Health Officer)

Military service can cause psychological consultation at have the opportunity to psychological stress, which must the designated Mental Health meet with the unit doctor be treated like any other medical Services clinic of the Medical and receive a referral to a issue. Be aware that throughout Corps should not hesitate to specialist. The determining military service, soldiers may not contact the staff from Mental factor in receiving care give a referral for psychological Health Services in his or her and establishing the level care to a civilian professional. unit. This can be done through of urgency is the soldier’s An appointment with a Kaban (a a soldier’s personal officers or medical situation, though at psychologist or a social worker) by means of a referral from the the same time, soldiers have is one of the basic rights of IDF unit’s clinic. rights and it is important that soldiers, and the person who TIPS FROM THE LSP TEAM: they demand their medical provides care is required to rights when necessary. • Medical care in the IDF is maintain absolute confidentiality. different from what soldiers • If a soldier has a private The receipt of professional may be familiar with based on medical consultation or psychological care from Mental their previous experiences. consults with a doctor Health Services is need-based, Sometimes the process overseas, the results of such and referrals are provided after proceeds very slowly and a consultation are not binding an initial conversation with requires tremendous in the IDF. Medical care is an authorized professional. patience. It may take a given only by means of the Any soldier who would like to long time for a soldier to doctors in the IDF. begin a process of individual

The LSP team and the FIDF wish every soldier the best of health! Staff members are in touch each week with the lone soldiers assigned to Ram 2 by phone and, since 2019, they receive care packages.

29 Military Terminology

Your son or daughter donned a military uniform and has been exposed to a world that’s completely different from anything he or she had known before. The clothing is different. The schedule is defined, and there’s military discipline. Likewise, the language is different – and in addition to learning Hebrew, the soldiers need to learn military terminology. Before we provide you with a vocabulary list that includes military slang, we’d like to introduce some of the people and processes that are likely to be occupying your sons and daughters in the coming time period:

• Mefakdim (Officers):The unit. The Mashakit Tash of the training process various officers who are makes sure each soldier in combines everything the responsible for a soldier – the unit receives his or her full soldiers have learned and from the soldier’s immediate rights. allows them to practice their officer, to the officer of the • Sha’at Tash (the hour before skills by simulating wartime. unit. This includes: The Mak sleep): The limited free time Throughout this week, the (squad commander), Mem received by soldiers prior to soldiers gain experience Mem (platoon commander), going to bed at night. This is with challenging warfare Mem Peh (company their time to take a shower, situations. commander), Magad talk on the phone, etc. • Tofsim Kav: This means that (battalion commander), • Shavua Shetach (field soldiers are in a particular and others. When soldiers week): As part of the training military zone where they talk about “Hamefaked” – process for combat soldiers, are doing guard duty and literally “The Officer” – they they are in the field for a other routine security-related are usually referring to their week during which time they activities for the area. immediate officer. It’s not are not able to contact their • Lisgor Shabbat (“in for the acceptable to use an officer’s families or friends – not by weekend”): The soldier is first name. The officers are phone, nor in any other way. remaining on the base for addressed using the term They generally eat combat the weekend and is not going “Hamefaked.” rations, sleep in the field, and home. • Mashakit Tash (the have no access to showers. equivalent of an army • Shavua Milhama (war social worker): A soldier who week): This final exercise is in your son’s or daughter’s

In Hebrew In English Explanation A minimal period of time; how soldiers refer to the amount of time that PAZAM פז"ם passed since they were drafted AFTER A short vacation of several hours אפטר AVTASH An acronym meaning securing an area or a community אבט"ש HAGNASH An acronym meaning defending an area or a community הגנ"ש AGAM Operations division אג"ם BATAR Base for basic training בט"ר The sense of distance that is established between officers in the army and DISTANCE their soldiers; at the end of basic training or service, there is something דיסטנס called “breaking the distance” WASACH Making a good impression without having earned it וַואסַ אח TIRON A soldier who is in basic training, or who is about to start basic training טירון LEDARBEK To make coffee לְדַ רְ ֵ ּב ק A vacation given to soldiers in special circumstances – such as a lone soldier MEYUHEDET who is being visited by his or her parents, a vacation granted for financial מיוחדת reasons, etc. MASHAK A commander who is not an officer מש"ק 30 In Hebrew In English Explanation MAK Squad commander מ"כ MEM-MEM Platoon commander מ"מ MEM-PEI Company commander מ"פ SMECH-MEM- Deputy company commander סמ"פ PEI SAMGAD Deputy battalion commander סמג"ד MAGAD Battalion commander מג"ד MAHAT Brigade commander מח"ט SAMHAT Deputy brigade commander סמח"ט KALAB Close to home קל"ב Battalion guard – meaning a soldier who stands guard at the entrance to SHIN-GIMEL ש"ג the camp Free time granted to soldiers before they go to bed, during which they can SHAAT TASH שעת ט"ש shower, talk on the phone, etc. SHIPTZUR Form Improvement- Generally to work on your equipment שפצו"ר SAKASH Sleeping bag שק"ש TASH Terms of service ת"ש KADATZ Pre-army preparatory program קד"צ TZAIR A low-ranking soldier whose release date from the IDF is far off צעיר MEKUTZERET Leaving for the weekend but returning on Saturday night מקוצרת MEDUGAM/ Following military guidelines in dress and presentation מדוגם/דיגום DIGUM PRISA Military meal פריסה Leaning with the weight of the body on the hands (generally given as a MATZAV 2 מצב שתיים punishment), a position known as “lying like a blanket” (LEHITAFETZ Snoozing during the day (when you are meant to be awake להתעפ"ץ Doing exactly what you’ve been asked to do without taking any initiative ROSH KATAN ראש קטן beyond that Feeling exceptionally tired and frustrated – generally used for a soldier who SHVIZUT שביזות is absolutely exhausted, disappointed, or just tired of it all LENATZNETZ Not working when other people around you are working לנצנץ BALTAM Unplanned בלת"ם HAZLASH Back to routine חזל"ש LISGOR Remaining on the base for Shabbat instead of having the weekend off לסגור שבת SHABAT GALHATZ Shaving your face, and polishing your shoes גלח"צ A weekend that begins early, on Thursday; you can also say Rav’ush – HAMSHUSH referring to a weekend that starts on Wednesday (and you won’t usually חמשוש have one that starts before Tuesday) A short vacation of several hours, for example, if you leave in the afternoon AFTER אפטר and return early the next day SRIKA A careful search of each and every part סריקה HAKPATZA Being called to a task at short notice הקפצה SHNATZ Nap in the afternoon שנ"צ Complete exemption from all activity in the unit, i.e., absolutely rest in the BETIM ביתים area of the base When a doctor or other authorized individual approves that a soldier must GIMELIM spend the day resting completely, must not do any military activity, and גימלים should therefore go home DALET YOM A day off from home due to a medical issue, and granted by the officer יום ד 31 32 Benefits for Lone Soldiers Oleh lonesoldier?Thiscategory Who isconsideredtobean benefits. to becomeeligibleforthese for atleast3monthsinorder be definedasalonesoldier the benefits.)Asoldiermust soldiers donotreceiveallof their serviceeasier.(Mahal certain benefitstohelpmake Lone soldiersintheIDFreceive Military Service Benefits forLoneSoldiersDuring Such casesare handledonan must speakto theMashakitTash. make Aliyahduringthatyear 12 monthsandwhoseparents A lonesoldierwhoserves for and families. flying hometoseetheir parents are onlyforsoldierswho free planeticket,asthesetickets the soldierdoesnotreceivea of service.Notethatinthiscase, lone soldierstatusuntiltheend of hisorherservicekeepsthe make Aliyahduringthelastyear A lonesoldierwhoseparents drafted. those whohavealreadybeen worker) inthesoldier’sunit,for equivalent ofanarmysocial or totheMashakitTash(the who havenotbeendraftedyet (recruitment center)forthose to theregionalLishkatHagiyus soldiers mustsubmitarequest To bedefinedasalonesoldier, following criteria: includes soldierswhomeetthe • • • period of6monthsormore to doworkabroad)fora agency orotherorganization by anIsraeligovernment mission –i.e.theyweresent are onShlichut(literally,a Soldiers whoseparents moved awayfromIsrael Soldiers whoseparents of Israel permanently resideoutside themselves whoseparents Soldiers whomadeAliyahby TO THEFOLLOWINGBENEFITS: LONE SOLDIERSAREENTITLED financial implications). soldier status(whichmayhave does notreportthismayloselone Mashakit Tash.Asoldierwho Aliyah) mustinformhisorher extended period(withoutmaking decide toresideinIsraelforan A lonesoldierwhoseparents individual basis. • • • Corporation, BituachLeumi offices, the Israeli Electric from differentgovernment include representatives Participants inYomSiddurim many servicesinoneplace. Siddurim inwhichtheyoffer IDF, runsacentralizedYom Resources Divisionofthe together withtheHuman Every year,NefeshB’Nefesh, during therestofservice. and onceeverytwomonths training oramilitarycourse, once amonthduringbasic care ofpersonalneeds: to an“errandsday”take – Lonesoldiersareentitled Yom Siddurim(errandsday) Human Resources)intheunit. Shalishut (Departmentof a sicknoticetotheMachleket benefit, asoldiermustsubmit retroactively. Toreceivethis The moneyistransferred starting onthefirstsickday. are entitledtofinancialaid more sickdays(YomGimel) Lone soldierswhohave3or Financial aidforsickdays cigarettes). tobacco products(suchas be usedtobuyalcoholor months. Themoneycannot i.e., youmustuseitwithintwo money doesnotcarryover, various supermarkets.The NIS, whichmaybeusedin soldier’s Chogerreceives150 food An extra150NIStopurchase –Eachmonth,the –

• • • • • • • • is atradition–butitnot from thesoldier’sunit.This receive movingassistance move toanewapartmentcan – Alonesoldierplanningto Moving toanewapartment different stores. buy foodandotheritemsat gift cardthatcanbeusedto year, lonesoldiersreceivea Holiday giftcard by 11:00aminthewinter. pm duringthesummer,and they canarrivehomeby12:00 earlier fromthebasesothat soldiers areallowedtoleave Erev Chag(holidayeve),lone Leaving early (social security),andmore. soldiers incombat support their advanced training,to combat soldierswhofinished service One freeflightduringarmy their families. once ayearinordertovisit entitled toa30-dayvacation Israel Special vacationoutsideof these vacationdays. and holidaysareincludedin officer. Fridays,Saturdays, by thesoldier’scommanding of thevacationisdetermined family visitsIsrael.Thelength a yearwhenthesoldier’s allowed upto8vacationdays Israel Vacation forfamilyvisiting special 30-dayvacation. entitled toafreeticketand of Israel),thesoldieris (where thefamilylivesoutside a soldier’simmediatefamily of thedeatharelativein Emergency flights when necessary. permits duringtheirservice soldiers canreceiveworking Working permit requirement oftheunit. –Lonesoldiersare –Lonesoldiersare –Thisisgivento

–OnFridaysand –Lone –Twicea –Incase positions after the first year • Financial grant – This grant in combat units. and to other soldiers after is dependent on the soldier’s • Quick “Bazak” Grant– This they finish half of their army financial state. To receive grant is given when a soldier service. It is recommended this grant, a soldier must needs urgent financial to submit a request about 3 submit documents indicating help and it is supposed to months prior to the trip. financial difficulties to the provide immediate relief. • Course: Preparing for civilian Mashakit Tash. The amount of the grant is life – The purpose of this • MAGAD coupons – These based on the level of activity. course it to prepare lone are given to lone soldiers The grant should arrive in soldiers for life as Israeli suffering from financial the soldier’s bank account citizens – to provide an difficulties. The soldiers up to 48 hours after it is overview of soldiers’ rights are not required to submit approved. While this grant and benefits after service, to documents from the bank is for individuals suffering help soldiers find jobs and proving their financial from financial difficulties, succeed in job interviews, and situation. MAGAD coupons soldiers are not required to to share information about are only given to lone soldiers submit documents from the university options. who are in combat units. bank proving their financial • Special vacation – Lone • Loan – Lone soldiers with situation in order to obtain it. soldiers are allowed a special financial difficulties are • Assistance with furniture – vacation of up to 30 days per entitled to receive a loan. The Lone soldiers are allowed to year. This time can be used soldiers are not required to ask for electrical appliances to study for the psychometric submit documents from the and furniture, depending on exam, handle urgent financial bank proving their financial their financial situations. problems or deal with situation. The loan is given personal issues. only to lone soldiers who are 33 Additional Benefits (Benefits That Are Not From the IDF)

• Grant from Nefesh B’Nefesh To receive this benefit, a given 50% off on their and the FIDF – Nefesh soldier must submit the electricity bills. To be eligible, B’Nefesh helps lone soldiers, following documents to the the rental contract and providing a grant of 2,500 Municipality: original rental electricity bill must be under NIS to every Oleh who is contract, authorization of the soldier’s name. To receive drafted as a lone soldier and regular army service from the this benefit, soldiers should who expects to serve for a IDF, Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID first contact the lone soldier minimum of 18 months. card), Teudat Choger (soldier’s hotline at 03-737-5200 and • Subsidized flights for ID) and lone soldier certificate. check that his or her name parents flying to Israel for • Monthly allowance of 540 is on their list, and then call graduation ceremonies – NIS from the Ministry of the Israel Electric Corporation Nefesh B’Nefesh together Absorption – To receive this (103). During the call, the with El Al subsidizes tickets allowance, the soldier must soldier must have access to for parents coming to attend call: 03-973-3333. If the his or her Choger (soldier ID), the Tekes Kumta ceremony. soldier is based at Michve credit card, the information This is for individuals who Alon, a representative on the electricity meter, and meet the defined criteria. will come and give them the number of the person For details, email us at: this benefit. The following paying or of the customer that Benefits for Lone Soldiers [email protected] individuals are entitled to this appears on the bill. • Substantial discount in benefit: An Oleh, a returning Arnona (property tax) or minor, and an Ezrach Oleh (an A TIP FROM THE LSP TEAM: complete refund – If a soldier Israeli citizen born abroad to Our experience has shown that lives with roommates, the at least one parent who held due to cultural differences, lone discount is based only on Israeli citizenship at the time soldiers often do not ask to the soldier’s portion of the of his or her birth). receive all of their benefits. We apartment. The discount is • 50% discount on electricity recommend that you teach your given for up to 70 square bills – Soldiers who are children to ask for the benefits meters of an apartment. renting an apartment are they deserve as lone soldiers!

34 Residential Options • Kibbutz Hospitality– The rent, bills, cleaning supplies, • Adopted families – Nefesh army pays rent directly to and maintenance and fixing B’Nefesh offers lone soldiers the relevant kibbutz and the costs are provided by the the option of having an soldier receives meals (vary FIDF. Soldiers living in these adopted family throughout according to the Kibbutz). apartments are entitled to 400 their service. Usually, the Each soldier receives his or NIS per month for buying food. soldier receives a private her own room, but this is • Renting an apartment – Every bedroom, and the family cares not guaranteed and there soldier is entitled to rent an for all of the soldiers’ needs is a chance that soldiers will apartment and the IDF will including providing personal have to share the room with contribute 1,300 NIS per guidance support. roommates. month toward the cost of • HaBayit Shel Benji - HaBayit • Beit Hachayal – A hostel that rent. This money is also meant Shel Benji located in Ra’anana belongs to the IDF and is to provide assistance with and is a place for lone combat open to all types of soldiers, the cost of other services or soldiers to call home for the including lone soldiers. equipment that are needed. duration of their army service, Every room has 3–4 soldiers. • Beit Halochem – Homes for and should be able to stay in Availability depends on how lone combat soldiers such as Israel and prosper thereafter. many soldiers there are and Habayit Shel Benji, Habayit whether rooms are free. You Shel Kobi, and Lone Soldiers must sign up in advance. Center (run by the Jerusalem • Alach apartments – Furnished Municipality). The rent is free apartments that are available and there are free meals, to lone soldiers. There are 6 a joint living space, and soldiers in every apartment separate bedrooms. – 2 soldiers per room. The SALARIES FOR SOLDIERS

Soldiers serving Combat Support Combat close to home Basic salary 810 NIS 1,176 NIS 1,616 NIS

Bonus for lone soldiers 540 NIS 540 NIS 540 NIS

Demei Sikun X 211 NIS 422 NIS

(Risk Payment) X 211 NIS 422 NIS

Food Payment 150 NIS 150 NIS 150 NIS

Ministry of Absorption Grant 540 NIS 540 NIS 540 NIS Grant from Ministry of 402 NIS 402 NIS 402 NIS Construction & Housing* Total 2,442 NIS 3,013 NIS 3,670 NIS Total with the financial grant for 3,742 NIS 4,319 NIS 4,970 NIS apartment rental (1,300 NIS)

* Generally 13 months after the Aliyah date, but soldiers can receive this from their 8th month after Aliyah. **Between month 9 and month 12, a soldier receives just 233 NIS. 35 36 BEING A PARENT OF A LONE SOLDIER anything stupid…! successful? They betternotdo worry aboutthem:Willthey be but atthesametime,they and proudoftheiradultchildren, home. Parentsmaybeemotional independent livesawayfrom college ordevelopingtheirown, also “leavethenest,”goingoffto In theUnitedStateschildren lone soldiers. children whoarebeingdraftedas meaningful communicationwith suggestions formaintaining In thefollowingarticle,Iprovide AWAY INISRAEL…” SOLDIERS WHOAREFAR CLOSE, ASPARENTS–FOR “CONTINUING TOBE greater confidence. communication, andgiveyou the skillsyouneedforbetter clearer picture,helpyougain offer assistance,providea especially foryouinorderto this topicinanarticlewritten psychologist, approaches Heli Barak,asenioreducational possible solutions? difficulties comeup?Whatarethe during IDFservice?What What doesasoldiergothrough How DoYou DealwiththeDistance? like Achi(“my brother”),Dootz military experiences –theslang, joining thearmy.Theworld of just movingtoIsrael–they are Moreover, thechildrenare not of alienation. the system.Andthereisfear because youarenotfamiliarwith the childrenarenotnearby,and on adailybasis–bothbecause help withproblemsthatcomeup familiar with.Youcannotprovide that, asparents,youmaynotbe a differentmentalityinIsrael and thereistheissueofhaving There isalsoatimedifference lies betweenyouandthem. far away,andtheAtlanticOcean deal with.Thechildrentrulyare Israel thereareotheremotionsto When childrenjointhearmyin always remainsachild. them becauseforaparent,child children’s strengthsandrelyon for parentstounderstandtheir Sometimes, itcanactuallybehard dependence oftheteenyears. saw themreachtheendof helpless babiesandonlyrecently children fromthetimetheywere anyone else.We’veraisedour child’s weaknessesbetterthan Every parentknowshisorher (“friendly fire”),Avtash(“securing what hadexisted previously. using adifferent paradigmthan and theirchildrencontinue communication between parents are notsimple.Manytimes, the and undercircumstances that they getangry–allfromfar away get worried,theystressed, children. Theygetexcited,they experience togetherwiththeir Amichai. Parentsgothroughthe expression bythepoetYehuda to beatwithinthem,’adoptan parent, ‘the child’s heart continues another continent.Butforeach of thefence’–inthiscase,on parents areleft‘ontheotherside children aredrafted,andthe of asoldierisdifficult.The The experienceofbeingaparent required todoit. for thisservice;theywerenot to forgetthattheyvolunteered be injuredinthearmy.Itishard that, Godforbid,thechildcould every parent’smind.Theworry children isintheforefrontof Fear forthewelfareofyour world. becomes partofthechildren’s and strangetoparents,whileit communities”) –remainsforeign Sometimes, whatever issues which are purely subjective – so these are the kinds of things already existed become more that one’s view of the situation that highlight what you share prominent. Sometimes, there can change for the better. When and what unite you as a is actually an improvement you change your interpretation family, even from a distance. due to the distance. It’s of a situation, your feelings and • Use a variety of important to remember that the ability to function also undergo a communication methods: communication, the relationship, shift. Luckily, there are a variety did not start on the day the In relation to the examples above, of types of communication children leave for Israel. There here are some examples of more today, and you can benefit may be scars – there is a baseline rational thoughts: A child does from the advantages of each against which everything should not have to phone on a regular one. Use email, WhatsApp, be evaluated. schedule, despite the fact that we Instagram, Skype, and the So how does one maintain close, may want them to. Perhaps it’s telephone. Send short or warm communication? not feasible; certainly, there’s no funny messages and pictures reason to feel that the child does that provide a small “caress.” not care. The fact that we do not Any communication that 1. Each parent needs to do his understand what is happening in reaches a child’s limbic brain or her own, work, internally: the army does not mean that we – the emotional part of the It is important to accept this shift in are unable to be of assistance. brain – is good. your role as a parent. The fact that it is hard for our kids • Initiate communication You have become a long-distance and that sometimes I may find it and don’t keep score: parent. Your child is in Israel in unbearable for a few moments Kids are very sensitive to the army. Those are the facts. does not mean that this is the their parents’ criticism and There are things that you will end of the world – it just means absorb when their parents not be able to do, but there are it’s hard. And there are definitely are hurt or disappointed many things that you will be able things that we can do to help. in them, even when it’s not to do. To the extent that you stated explicitly. This leads accept the reality and don’t fight 2. Maintaining communication to a feeling of distance. it, you will free up energies to with children: Therefore, it is important to enjoy the relationship and get the really accept a child’s pattern When you communicate with kids maximum out of it. of communication and not in the army: It is important to take to fight it. Transmit to the responsibility for subjective, • Listen to them: To be children that you are happy negative interpretations of our caring, you don’t need to with them and they definitely reality. For example: have expertise or to have will want to communicate the solution at hand. What • My child must call me on a with you more! children need is for their regular schedule. It’s not okay • Take the calls at any parents to be good listeners that he hasn’t – he doesn’t hour: Because of the time – expressing empathy and care! difference, sometimes your warmth. Be truly interested in son or daughter will call at • We don’t understand what’s what they are experiencing. happening there in the army, inconvenient hours. Take the • Share what’s going on at so we aren’t capable of calls, because this is the time home: The kids are interested helping… when your child needs you. in hearing about what’s been • Help them deal with the • My daughter is having a hard happening in the familiar stress: Sometimes the time in the army and it’s a environment at home and conversations will not be catastrophe, what will we do?! with other family members. pleasant. Nevertheless, try to • The situation is unbearable • Talk about what you have (the distance, the worry, the listen and to be supportive. in common: Every family In most cases, kids need difficulty). I can’t deal with it has certain positive aspects any longer. their parents just to listen of communication and these and to validate their feelings. These kinds of irrational thoughts, need to be preserved – They want recognition that though they are very human, whether this means talking the feelings are real and actually represent a source of about a television series you rational, and that their difficulty in and of themselves. all love, trips taken together, parents care about their They cause strong feelings of or other family anecdotes. distress. Never argue with anger, insult, fear, and tension. It Don’t forget about these feelings, complaints, or bad is highly recommended to identify shared aspects because of the moods. When people are in these kinds of interpretations – distance. Talk about them, as 37 38 BEING A PARENT OF A LONE SOLDIER • Important PhoneNumbers Additional important phonenumbers intheIDF(Hebrewlink) Soldiers The DivisionandFoundation for Released Military Rabbinate Merkaz Mahut Mekol Halev Hotline Meitav Center UnitService Merkaz Bodedim Lone Soldiers Hotline Questions aboutSalaries Resource that theyarecapableof abilities: Strengthen yourchildren’s to talkmorelogically. 15–20 minutes–youcanstart this generallyhappensafter down –andneurologically, your sonordaughtercalms and notunderstood.When awful, butalsofeelsrejected the personnotonlyfeels The resultofdoingsoisthat that theyareexaggerating. there isnoreasontotellthem overcome theiremotions,so storm, nodegreeoflogicwill the middleofanemotional crisis –willhelpthemreturn emotions, orduringtimesof – experiencingafloodingof when childrenareinthearmy This kindofencouragement faith inthem–atanyage! all, kidsneedtheirparents’ fulfilling prophecy.Above all –theprocessofaself- most importantprocessof positive beliefsthatstartthe you trustthem.Theseare that theyarestrong, they havethecapabilities, you canfixmistakes,that distress istemporary,that solving problems,thatthe Emphasizetothem completing andpreparing IDF service for civilianlife questions andprovides adviceon issues related to Guidance for soldiers inadvance oftheirrelease; answers Questions about religion and religious rights intheIDF kinds ofissuesinadiscrete manner. has arepresentative who is responsible for handlingthese orpriortomilitary service beingdrafted. Note: Every unit abuse, family violence,orunplannedpregnancy –during and offering assistance for any questions related to sexual Support center providing mental for healthservices soldiers from theMedical Corps Setting upmedical appointments or receiving information Hashomer, Haifa, BeerSheva, Jerusalem,andTiberias) Information Center aboutthe recruitment centers (Tel address problems Available 24hours aday to answer soldiers’ questions or deposits, etc. Questions level, aboutsalary delays, salary trouble with Details on whatispossibleinlong- In summary: • distance. and generateafeeling conversations, createtension, this ishowyoucanmessup correcting errors–because right, ongivingguidance, you’re saying,onbeing on thecontent,what provide support.Focusless your intentiontolistenand Therefore, focusmoreon the conversationisover. feeling you’releftwithafter What’s importantisthe not matterwhatyousay. is veryimportant: important; butthetone of theconversationisnot Remember thatthecontent years ofexperience. is anareainwhichyouhave to knowyourchild–andthis about Israel.Youjustneed expertise aboutthearmyor does notrequirehaving having faithintheirabilities that helpingyourchildrenby in thebestwaypossible.Note parents, youarehelpingthem function better.Inthisway,as thinking, wheretheycan to moreeffectivemodesof Keep yourfocus Itdoes Senior EducationalPsychologist Heli BarakStein much joyfromyourchildren, Wishing youthebestofluckand the Army.” – the period that’s known as “After parents intheperiodthatfollows army andthencontinuetobe to getthroughtheperiodin that yourexperiencesarenormal, share, tohearnewideas,know who areinasimilarsituation–to be helpfultospeakwithparents flexible, anditwillwork.Itcan work wellforyou.Bepatientand Find waysofcommunicationthat – toyourselves,andthem. in thearmyIsrael.Listenwell for you–nowthatyourchildis are possible,andthatgood with typesofcommunicationthat have withyourchildren,replaceit communication thatyouusedto to do. less onwhatyouarenotable distance communication,and www.hebpsy.net/barak for a Second, and When KidsLeavetheHouse Author ofthebooksAtEyeLevel,ListentoMe 03-777-6770 052-941-4414 Open 24hours aday 03-948-2600 03-9489999 [email protected] [email protected] *1111 extension 2 a message to 03-734-9999 [email protected] oryou can send Email/Phone Instead ofthetype

Ten Commandments for Parents of Lone Soldiers

1. Information is Power – of Lone Soldiers (Mothers of 8. Use Emotional language and Educate yourself about your Lone Soldier Facebook group, acknowledge the variety of child IDF service. Families of Lone Soldiers – feelings you might feel during 2. “Expectations and Reality” - FLS, etc) this journey (moments of Help your child set up realistic 6. Convey messages that provide joy and moments of endless expectations about their strength, and continue to worries). future IDF service transmit and express that you 9. Teach them to actively pursue 3. Be involved and supportive, believe and trust them! their rights and benefits as ne yet also grant them freedom 7. Express to your children the Soldiers and space . tremendous pride you have 10. Come visit them as much as 4. Keep ongoing communication in their decision and your possible – especially for the with your children in every support of it. This, in turn, course ceremonies. way possible. prompts them to take pride in you, as parents of a lone 5. Create for yourselves a source soldier of support with other parents

Prior to Being Released

Mazal Tov! Release Day is 2. Kupat Holim (healthcare time to renew them and approaching. Your child fund): For a year after update the expiration date for completed his or her military completing service, released the soldier’s Aliyah rights. It is service! soldiers have an exemption important to bring the Teudat Before planning for the future, it from healthcare fund Shichror (release document) is important to check that your payments. But they must and Teudat Oleh (Oleh child has taken the necessary choose which healthcare document) to Misrad Haklita. steps for living life in Israel. Here fund they want to join – even 5. Driver’s license: Olim can are 5 steps that it is important to though there is no need, convert a foreign driver’s take after being released: at this point, to pay for it. license to an Israeli license If your child belonged to a 1. Bituach Leumi (social within 3 years from their healthcare fund prior to being security): At the end of Aliyah date. The conversion drafted, he or she can renew service, a released soldier process generally involves membership in the same fund is entitled to a two-month taking driving lessons and or can opt to join a different period of acclimation. During passing a test – but if your son fund. this time, he or she does not or daughter has had a license need to pay social security. 3. Arnona (property tax): The for more than 5 years prior After this, social security right to exemption from to the date of Aliyah, it can payments are automatically property tax continues for be converted without a test deducted from an individual’s 4 months after the soldier’s and without driving lessons. monthly salary. If your release date. After this time, Additional information about child is not working (i.e., is they are charged Arnona. driver’s licenses is online at: unemployed), the payment 4. Misrad Haklita (Ministry of www.nbn.org.il/driving due is 170 NIS per month. For Absorption): Some of the For additional information, students, there is a deduction rights and privileges received see the Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone of 45 NIS; the amount due is by new Olim are frozen during Soldiers Program website 125 NIS per month. military service. Now is the

39 LONE SOLDIERS PROGRAM 24/7 HOtline: *6563 LSP.NBN.ORG.IL [email protected] LoneSoldiersProgram lonesoldiersprogram 40