New Commander Takes Charge of IDF's 52nd Armored Battalion After Lebanon Losses

A solemn change of command ceremony took place on Wednesday at Camp Amiyad, marking the official appointment of Lieutenant Colonel G as the new commander of the 52nd Armored Battalion, known as 'HaBokaim,' part of Brigade 401. The event was attended by senior IDF officers including the Chief Armored Corps Officer Brigadier General Ehud Maor, Division 162 Commander Brigadier General Sagiv Dahan, Division 36 Commander Brigadier General Yiftach Nurkin, Brigade 401 Commander Colonel Yoav Schneider, and Givati Brigade Commander Colonel Netanel Shamka.

Lieutenant Colonel G assumed command from Lieutenant Colonel N, who had temporarily filled the role following the tragic death of the previous battalion commander, Lieutenant Colonel Dor Ben Shimon, who was killed in combat in southern Lebanon on June 19. Alongside him, three soldiers also fell: Staff Sergeants Liav Kabbiya, Noh Habshush, and Yoav Klein.

Brigadier General Schneider praised the battalion's distinguished performance throughout the extended fighting, noting that Battalion 52 operated across the entire Gaza Strip during the conflict. He emphasized the battalion's readiness to undertake any mission, describing its spirit as an inspiration and model for the entire IDF and Israel. Schneider also reminded the troops that security challenges persist and that many missions remain ahead.

In an emotional address, the incoming commander, Lieutenant Colonel G, paid tribute to his fallen predecessor Dor and acknowledged the difficult circumstances under which he assumed command, following the injury of Lieutenant Colonel A, a fellow officer. He pledged to continue leading the battalion forward, honoring the legacy of those lost in battle.