Alon Moreh Hesder Yeshiva Wins 2026 Defense Minister’s Shield Award for Reserve Support

The 2026 Defense Minister’s Shield Award recipients were announced, selected from over 1,000 nominations. The award honors employers, academic institutions, and local authorities that demonstrate significant and ongoing support for Israeli reservists and their families. Among the winners is the Hesder Yeshiva "Birkhat Yosef" in Alon Moreh. Other notable recipients include major companies such as Bezeq, Israel Electric Corporation, Amdocs, and municipalities like Ma'ale Adumim and Ashdod, as well as Reichman University.

The award recognizes entities that view reservists as a national asset and provide supportive work, study, and service environments year-round. Criteria included the extent of assistance to reservists and their families, employment and academic flexibility, welfare initiatives, recognition efforts, support during extended service periods, and organizational policies encouraging reserve service.

From the initial 1,000+ recommendations submitted by reservists and their families, a professional screening process narrowed the candidates to 99 finalists: 76 employers, 13 academic institutions, and 10 local authorities. The selection committee was led by Il Hanes, head of the Ministry of Defense’s Veterans and Reservists Division, alongside Brigadier General Benny Ben Ari, the IDF’s Chief Reserve Officer. The committee conducted thorough evaluations, including verification of recommendations and testimonies, with representatives from government ministries, the defense establishment, business sector, academia, and local government.

Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the vital role of reservists, especially since October 7, highlighting the heavy and prolonged burden they and their families bear out of dedication to the state. Katz stated that the award reflects appreciation for employers, academic institutions, and local authorities that stand by reservists, showing flexibility and support. He affirmed that strengthening the reserve system is a national mission, and the government will continue ensuring that those who serve know the state and society fully back them.