Stories
The care and services provided by the FIDF impact the lives of every soldier and bless families across Israel. Here are a few of their stories.
One Soldiers’ Personal Account of Horror and Loss During the War with Hamas By Captain (Res.) Odelia
My story begins in Germany with my grandparents, who made the decision to move to Israel, specifically to work in a nursing home with Holocaust survivors. They were not Jewish. It was a purposeful move to contribute, to heal the scars left by the war. My mom continued their legacy and was...
Provide Extra Personal Support to a Grieving Israeli Family
New York, NY – Families in Israel have faced a constant barrage of loss since October 7. Now, US friends can come alongside individual families who have tremendous emotional and financial challenges. At the request of the Israeli Ministry of Defense, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, the IDF’s...
FIDF Family Makes History
An FIDF family has made history, as its fourth and youngest daughter made aliyah and is serving alongside her three sisters as a guardian of the Jewish homeland. They are the first family ever from the United States with four Lone Soldier girls in service together. Naomi Arbel, a beloved FIDF...
The IMPACT of Education for an FIDF Soldier
This past May, Israel passed the “Absorption of Discharged Soldiers Bill,” which now entitles each IDF combat soldier funding from the government, covering 75% of a public college or state university tuition (roughly $2,400 per year). This is a significant step in the recognition of...
Healing the Wounds after Wars and Terror
Israel recently endured a horrifying uptick in terror attacks, reminiscent of the frequent violence that tore through the country more than a decade ago. Coupled with a history marked by wars and military activity, Israelis know unimaginable pain, loss and grief all too well. There are currently...
Elad’s Story
Elad benefited from an FIDF partnership program aimed at providing care and support for wounded soldiers.
“While I was in the hospital, a former wounded soldier visited me… He assured me that I would have brighter days ahead of me.”
Hilla’s Story
Hilla trained in an FIDF-donated medical center.
“In a critical situation like this one, I couldn’t let fear take over. My training just kicked in … I believe that if I hadn’t acted at that moment, he would not be with us today.”
Moshe’s Story
Moshe benefited from FIDF’s Project Overcome for in-need soldiers and went on to receive an IMPACT! Scholarship for his law studies.
“I became a law student to represent the voiceless. That used to be me.”
Sarit’s Story
Sarit and her son are supported through FIDF’s Bereaved Families program.
“I tried to call Danni again and again, but he didn’t answer. As I hung up, I heard the knock on my door, and I knew.”