Lone Soldiers From 30 Nations Train Together in Israel
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Approximately 630 lone soldiers from 30 countries are currently undergoing Hebrew language and basic training at the Michve Alon base in Israel. These soldiers have immigrated to Israel with the aspiration of serving in the IDF. The intensive three-month course aims to provide them with necessary language skills and foster camaraderie. Several soldiers shared their personal motivations for immigrating and enlisting, highlighting their commitment to Israel and the support they receive from the military.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- 630 lone soldiers from 30 countries are training together at Michve Alon base.
- The soldiers are learning Hebrew and undergoing basic training for IDF service.
- Lone Soldiers Week highlights the commitment of immigrants serving in the IDF.
- Soldiers expressed personal motivations for immigrating and serving Israel.
- The military provides significant support, including language and welfare services.
The Israeli military is celebrating Lone Soldiers Week, honoring approximately 630 soldiers from 30 different countries who have immigrated to Israel to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). These soldiers have left behind their homes, cultures, languages, and childhood friends to fulfill their Zionist dream and enlist in the IDF.
Currently, 630 lone soldiers are undergoing Hebrew language training and basic training (02) at the Michve Alon base, part of the Education Corps' "Magen" array. The intensive three-month course, attended by around 400 male and 230 female soldiers, aims to equip them with the Hebrew proficiency necessary for military service and foster friendships from around the globe.
Among them is Sergeant G, 20, who immigrated from New York. Inspired by Israeli counselors who left for reserve duty during Operation Protective Edge when he was eight, he felt a strong pull to serve. "It was clear to me that I would come and enlist," he stated, crediting the army's Hebrew language academy and the support of the Nahal Brigade's 50th Battalion, which he considers his family.
Private Sophia Dubinsky, 19, who arrived six years ago, hopes to serve in the police. "I feel that Israel is my home," she said, expressing relief at being in Israel due to the war in Russia. Private Elinore Alfie, 20, from Miami, who immigrated two years ago, aspires to be a combat soldier in the Navy, or failing that, in armored corps, artillery, or combat intelligence, emphasizing her personal effort to be a combatant.
Private Aviv Cohen, 18, from France, comes from a family with military service and aims for significant roles like pilot or special forces. Private Eitan Levy, 19, from Venezuela, initially uncertain about enlisting, felt compelled to contribute after a year of service in Israel, stating, "I knew the country was doing everything for me, and I wanted to do something for it."
Lieutenant Noa Ayush, 22, from Petah Tikva, serves as the welfare officer at Michve Alon, overseeing the largest welfare office in the IDF. She and her team provide services to 2,500 soldiers, including the approximately 600 lone soldiers. Her team members act as parental figures for these soldiers, offering crucial support.
Mentioned