Haredi IDF soldiers graduate Hashmonaim Brigade's first officer training course

The IDF's Haredi Hashmonaim Brigade marked a significant milestone with the graduation of its first officer training course. The program successfully maintained all the rigorous standards set by the IDF's Officer's School (Bahad 1) while ensuring graduates could adhere to their ultra-Orthodox lifestyle.

Following this initial graduation, the newly trained officers will proceed to four additional months of specialized training in the Gefen course, alongside the general infantry course at Bahad 1. Upon completion, they will assume various officer roles within the Hashmonaim Brigade, preparing them for leadership responsibilities.

Brigade commander Col. S. addressed the graduates, emphasizing the importance of their path, especially during challenging times. He likened their continued training amidst national turmoil to Noah's ark, a symbol of steadfastness, and expressed confidence in their future leadership of the brigade and the people of Israel.

The IDF highlighted the course as a crucial achievement in its ongoing efforts to integrate more Haredi individuals into military service. This initiative is part of broader steps taken over the past three years to create adapted service paths that allow Haredi members to advance to command and officer positions without compromising their religious observance.

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You are at a significant and important stage on your path to becoming officers. This is a difficult and challenging path even in normal times, and especially now, when we are in the midst of a flood that is stirring up the country. Even in the original flood, Noah’s ark stood firm in the midst of the storm and the flood. You, the cadets, are inside this ark and continue your training with distinction. When the situation outside is over, and it will be over, you will be here to lead the brigade and the people of Israel forward.