Paratroopers Celebrate Freedom in Thailand After Grueling Service

After two years and eight months of intense combat across multiple fronts, soldiers from the Israeli Paratroopers Brigade's Company A have traded the battlefields of Gaza, Lebanon, Judea and Samaria, and Syria for the beaches of Thailand. The soldiers, who enlisted after the October 7th attacks, have completed their service and are celebrating their newfound freedom with a month-long trip together.

"We always experienced the difficult times together, the bad times, when everyone is tired and worn out," said Sergeant Major L. before their departure. "You want to enjoy yourselves with the people because you love them. These are friends you would give your life for so they don't get shot."

Their journey is marked by the memory of their beloved former commander, Major Omri-Chai Ben Moshe, who was killed in action in Rafah in July 2025, two months after finishing his command of their company. Ben Moshe, remembered for his high demands and deep care for his soldiers, was posthumously awarded the rank of Major and fell while serving as a commander in officer training. Three officer cadets also fell with him.

The soldiers recounted Ben Moshe's demanding yet inspiring leadership style, including surprise combat tests and ensuring soldiers were always prepared, even in extreme heat. He famously told his soldiers, "From my perspective, you can curse me for 20 generations, but I promised your parents to bring you home safely."

The paratroopers' service saw them deployed across various conflict zones, including Khan Yunis in Gaza, Lebanon where they participated in operations against Hezbollah, Syria, and the West Bank. They experienced intense fighting, including operations near the Litani River and in Bint Jbeil, Lebanon, where they faced heavy fire and casualties, including Sergeant Moshe Yitzhak HaCohen Katz. Their service concluded on the Gaza border during Operation "Lion's Roar" and later in Rafah.