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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)DisclaimerThis website is intended only for viewing and retrieving information. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org does not guarantee that information on this website is accurate, timely, valid or complete, although Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org strives to meet those criteria. About the Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org website | What can it do for me?Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is the leading guide and one-stop-assistant for all overseas would-be enlistees prior to joining the IDF, and is cooperating with official and private organizations and individuals facilitating the enlistment of these noble volunteers. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is now the sole website that can assist every IDF overseas volunteer for the Mahal, Mahal Nahal Haredi and Mahal Hesder programs and also all IDF non-Mahal paths. As soon as the volunteer is choosing a program, Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org will forward his/her registration to the Ministry of Defense or the organization best suited for that program and assist that organization to handle the case. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org was launched in 2001 as Mahal2000.com
and got the "Jewish
Agency Top Site 2005" award. The usage statistics for 2007 show
135,000 visits and 3,000,000 hits. Google ranks on Mar 11, 2008: After enlistment, overseas volunteers have the same rights and duties as conscripted Israeli soldiers and serve in units side-by-side with Israeli soldiers. Over one thousand young people from more than 40 countries have already joined the IDF through its exciting programs for overseas volunteers. Note: Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is a private initiative and today the leading online guide and assistant for overseas IDF enlistees. We cooperate with the Ministry of Defense, IDF, government agencies and private organizations. The services of Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org are free of charge. Donations are not accepted. All Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org personnel are volunteers and fund their activities as a gesture of esteem and gratitude to the noble IDF overseas volunteers. *** What should be my very first step?We strongly encourage you to search and study the Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org website and especially the pages entitled Who Can Volunteer?, Your Service in the IDF, Volunteering Step-by-Step, Register/Sign up Online, FAQ and the external links like the informations for Chayalim Bodedim (Lone Soldiers).*** Is Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org's "Forum" a reliable source of information?In general, yes. While Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org understands that most postings are placed by well-meaning people, the way to hell is sometimes paved with well-meaning postings. Usually the postings are anonymous and/or their accuracy and validity can not be verified and/or it is unclear how typical or applicable the alleged experience is. The IDF is a huge organization and in any case emigration to Israel, even when not for good, is a complex matter. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org cooperates with the IDF, Ministry of Interior and many others in order to facilitate the enlistment of overseas volunteers. Therefore, only specialized organizations like Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org can see the whole picture and give reliable advice. *** I am an IDF soldier/veteran. I would like to post on the forum.We welcome sharing your thoughts. However, Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org does not monitor the postings. The enemy does. Loose lips sink ships!*** I am not Jewish. Can I volunteer?Please click here *** One of my parents is not Jewish. Can I volunteer?Yes. *** I am a convert to Judaism. Can I volunteer?Yes, if you get a confirmation stating that you are Jewish, signed by a rabbi residing outside Israel. There is no difference between born Jews and converted Jews, all qualify for Mahal IDF programs. The confirmation must have a detailed letterhead with name of the Jewish community, address, phone, fax and email. The exact name of the rabbi must be clearly readable. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org does not check the validity of conversions. If you want to check the validity your conversion for the purpose of Israeli immigration, send the rabbi's confirmation to the Jewish Agency Aliya Representative for your country. If the conversion process is not complete or the conversion is not valid in Israel, you do not qualify for Mahal IDF programs. *** I am 24 (man) | 21 (woman), or older. Can I volunteer?Please click here *** I am an Israeli citizen. Do I qualify for the Mahal IDF program?No. Israeli citizens might be eligible for the path for overseas residents with Israeli citizenship who were not residents of Israel between their 11th and 18th birthday and the Tzofim Garin Tzabar program or regular IDF service. Note: The regular IDF service called Shlav Bet, might be shorter than the Tzofim Garin Tzabar program. How
can I check if I (or one of my parents) ever had Israeli citizenship? I am not an Israeli citizen. If I made aliyah (opted for Israeli
citizenship) upon my arrival to Israel, would I qualify for the Mahal
IDF program? It is not your aliyah but Israeli citizenship citizenship which is relevant. Volunteers with Israeli citizenship do not qualify for the 14 1/2 (18) months IDF service through the Mahal IDF programs. Note: the regular IDF service called Shlav Bet, might be shorter than the Mahal IDF programs for non-Israeli citizens and the Tzofim Garin Tzabar program for Israeli citizens. *** Could I receive officer training?The Mahal IDF programs are too short to include a course of officer training. If you are qualified and sign on you could become an officer.*** I would like to serve in a specific unit, is that possible?Only the IDF has the right to decide in which unit you will serve and the IDF will decide only after your enlistment. Your preference is one of the factors in the decision of the IDF.The health profile (physical/psychological assessment) is evaluated by the IDF. Generally, males with high health profiles will serve in infantry combat units, such as the Nahal Infantry Brigade, and those with low health profile in non-combat units. In principle, women only serve in combat units if they specifically request to do so. *** I would like to volunteer for a longer / shorter period of time. Is that possible?Serving for longer periods is never a problem. The IDF will gladly retain motivated soldiers, especially volunteers. Staying for a shorter period is not possible. If you would like to volunteer, but you don't have 14 1/2 (18) months to spare, please check out our "Other Volunteer Programs" section. *** I am not interested in working as a part time volunteer at a Jewish community. Can I still volunteer for the IDF?Yes. Many Mahal volunteers will volunteer some of their time to their communities upon returning home. Past experience has shown that the benefits, both to the community and to the volunteers themselves, are great, but it is not mandatory. *** What is a "Lone Soldier" (Chayal Boded)/ To which privileges and financial assistance is a Chayal Boded entitled?A Chayal Boded as a soldier who has no family (parent, brother, sister, husband, wife) in Israel. Most Mahal volunteers fall into this category. If you have family in Israel that cannot support you and you live alone, you might be recognized as a Chayal Boded. The status “Chayal Boded” is formally established by the IDF following enlistment. Click here to find out more about the privileges and financial assistance to which a Chayal Boded is entitled.*** What should I do during the 2 1/2 months I am required to spend in Israel before enlistment?We highly recommend that you use this time to learn Hebrew. There are a number of programs that can facilitate this process. Check out the list of Hebrew study programs and here. For help concerning Israel programs, Hebrew study programs (ulpanim) and accommodation, contact Dara Winston (Tnuat Aliya, Jewish Agency) *** Where can I stay during the 2 1/2 months I am required to spend in Israel before enlistment?Please read through the section Accommodation in Israel.You will have to make your own arrangements for your stay before enlistment. Once you are enlisted, the IDF is responsible for providing for your needs. If you do not have relatives or friends with whom you can stay for a few weeks, consider an "Enrichment program" which affords accommodations. There are many Hebrew study programs (ulpanim) or kibbutzim which offer that option as well. For help concerning Israel programs, Hebrew study programs (ulpanim) and accommodation, contact Dara Winston (Tnuat Aliya, Jewish Agency) Alternatively, check out "Israel Youth Hostels", a wide variety of youth hostels in Israel at about $16.50 per person per night (breakfast included). If you are a member of Hosteling International, rates are lower. *** Who will take care of my personal affairs (medical insurance, accommodation, etc.)?After your enlistment, the IDF will take care of your medical treatment, accommodation, etc.*** How much Hebrew do I have to know?You have to be able to understand what is going on around you and make yourself understood on a basic level. Under normal circumstances, 60-90 days of ulpan (Hebrew study program) for a person with no prior knowledge of Hebrew is sufficient. Due to constant exposure to a Hebrew speaking environment in the IDF, the Hebrew language skills of Mahal volunteers generally improve during the first months of their service. However, the more Hebrew you know when you join, the easier it will be for you to adapt to the new surroundings. So, learning as much Hebrew as possible before you begin the IDF programs is highly recommended! The IDF service language is Hebrew. IDF exams and enlistment interviews are done in Hebrew. At the time of your enlistment the IDF will check your ability to communicate in Hebrew. There are no standards and the decision is at the discretion of the IDF. The good news: you will be enlisted even if the IDF will find you are not speaking enough Hebrew. The bad news: your actual enlistment date will be postponed to the date of the Army Ulpan and your army service will be 18 months (instead of 14 1/2), including the free Army Ulpan of 3 months. Check out the list of Hebrew study schools. *** How physically fit do I have to be?Unless you are really out of shape, working out is not necessary. If you are assigned to a combat unit, the IDF will train you starting from zero until you reach your optimum fitness level. The IDF will not judge you by the number of pushups you are able to do, but by your motivation and determination.
*** What should I bring with me?Remember you have to care for yourself during the 2 1/2 months in Israel before you join the IDF. Bring whatever you will need for this time.On your first day in the army, the IDF will supply you with the following items:
*** Should I volunteer for the IDF before college of after college?Either alternative will provide a meaningful and unforgettable experience. However, joining before college is preferable because Israeli soldiers enlist at 18 and the closer your ages are the easier it is going to be for you to relate and form friendships.*** Is the Nahal Infantry Brigade a good unit?The IDF is renowned worldwide and all units are good. The IDF will decide in which unit you are needed and train you accordingly. Usually Mahal volunteers serve in the Nahal Infantry Brigade. All IDF infantry brigades are popular with almost no difference - see numbers of candidates per available place (Yediot Achronot, Nov 21, 2005): Golani Infantry Brigade (1.7), Nahal Infantry Brigade (1.6) and Givati Infantry Brigade (1.5.):
From the post of Aug 13, 2004 on Mahal’s discussion forum: “In the Nahal we were in Gdud 50. I would put this unit up against any in Givati or Golani or Nahal for that matter as far as difficulty of training goes. … Our soldiers carried and were trained on the exact same weapons as other infantry units. … I was a Magist so were two other Mahalnikim, another in our plugah was the RPGist, another 2 were Negevistim. Mahalnikim also had Margamot (mortars), Matolim (grenade launchers) and a few snipers. One of our squads won the bochan tironim, a contest between the squads in all the infantry units. There were 4 Mahalnikim in that kita. 4 Mahalnikim from my unit went to course mefakdim and one went on to be a mefaked machlaka. I tell you as right as rain...that unless you want to go to a special forces unit you should seriously consider Mahal. There is absolutely nothing wrong with Nahal...in fact it is damn tough and damn proud." Standoff
In Nablus IDF to award 12 soldiers bravery citations
*** How long should I plan to stay on my own between the Hebrew studies in Israel and enlistment?No need for extra time, everything can be arranged during your Hebrew studies in Israel.*** When should I submit the online registration/sign up form?If you are seriously interested in volunteering now or at a later date, please submit your registration now. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org will examine your qualification and inform you about the necessary next steps on the way to volunteering for the IDF. The registration has no legal significance before signing up with the Ministry of Defense - in person in Israel. In any case, your qualification is subject to final approval by the Ministry of Defense/IDF at the time of the actual IDF enlistment and is automatically revoked, if you don’t enlist before your 24th birthday (man) | 21st birthday (woman). *** When does my Israeli A1 (Temporary Resident) status change?You are A1 for three years or less. If you remain in Israel for more than the full three years of your A1, you may want to apply for Israeli citizenship. If you do nothing, your status will change automatically to Permanent Resident. In any case, consult the Israeli Ministry of Interior Before your A1 expires, the rules in three years might be different.If you left Israel with the status of A1 or Permanent Resident, request the Israeli diplomatic mission in your country to delete you from the Israeli Population Register. You should receive a letter confirming your change of status. *** When does my Israeli A2 status change?If you remain in Israel after discharge from the IDF, you will have the following options: B2 (Tourist), A2 (as a student), change to A1 (Temporary Resident) or Israeli citizenship. Consult the Israeli Ministry of Interior.If you leave Israel with A2 status, you need not do anything. *** Do I have to give up my citizenship if I serve in the IDF?No.*** Do I have to live in Israel after I serve?No.*** Who would I stay with during pre-basic training?The IDF provides accommodation for all soldiers.*** By volunteer do you mean help out on a base, or actually serve in the IDF?Mahal volunteers are regular soldiers and serve in the IDF side-by-side with conscripted Israeli soldiers.*** How long is a volunteer not in training?There is no special training for Mahal volunteers except the pre-basic training. You will get the same training as every Israeli soldier with the same job. If you serve in the Nahal Infantry Brigade you are usually not in training about 9 months of active IDF service (or 12 1/2 months if non-combat profile).*** Is Mahal the same as Nahal?No. The similarity of the names Mahal and Nahal is pure coincidence. Mahal is the Hebrew acronym for Overseas Volunteers (Mitnadvei Hutz-La’aretz). Nahal stand for Noar Halutzi Lohem. Mahal volunteers serve in various units of the IDF. One of the units of the IDF is the Nahal Infantry Brigade where most Mahal volunteers with combat profile serve.*** Do Mahal overseas volunteers receive the same training, pay/benefits, and positions as Israeli draftees?Yes.*** Do Mahal overseas volunteers serve exclusively in the Nahal Infantry Brigade?They usually serve in Nahal but Mahal volunteers have served in most units of the IDF, combat and non-combat.*** Are Mahal volunteers eligible for any sayarot (Special Forces)?Yes, if ready to serve longer than 14 1/2 (18) months, depending on the unit.If so, what are the physical and mental qualifications? The requirements differ depending on the unit and the individual. *** Is it possible to serve in the IDF for more than 14 1/2 (18) months, either through Mahal or otherwise without becoming an Israeli citizen?Yes, once you are enlisted you can opt for longer service at any stage.*** Can I get an upfront commitment from Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org or the IDF to place me in a specific unit or location?The IDF will decide where you are needed, and only after enlisting. While attempts are made to accommodate individual preferences or needs, the IDF cannot commit itself to fulfilling these requests.*** I am over 23 (man) | over 20 (woman). Whom can I petition to allow an exemption from the enlistment age limit?As decided by the IDF, only men in the age bracket 18-23 (women 18-20) are eligible for volunteering for the IDF. This means the maximum enlistment date limit is the 24th birthday for men and the 21st for women. Unfortunately no exception can be made. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is presently lobbying the IDF and the Border Police to enlist also "older" Jewish overseas volunteers. Any change will be published on the homepage of our website. For extremely perseverent Israeli do-it-yourself-guys: try, again an again, to meet a senior figure of Lishkat HaGius (IDF Enlistment Center). Do not get upset if the answer will be “no”, or you will receive no answer. Some "older" people who were extremely perseverant have been accepted by the IDF. In any case, you can help Israel in many other ways. Please take a look at the "Other Volunteer Programs" section of our website. *** Can I be placed in a tank unit through the Mahal program?Yes, if the IDF decides you are qualified for it, and you are needed there.*** Do I have other options than infantry or non-combat?The IDF decides after your enlistment where you will serve. This includes all other IDF units that are not infantry or non-combat, like artillery, tanks etc.*** Which Hebrew Study Program (ulpan) is best?Israel maintains an incredible infrastructure for intensive Hebrew language training which has been enhanced over years of experience and millions of new immigrants. You will find that the ulpan programs are consistently outstanding, but for an assessment of which ulpan program best suits your needs, please contact Dara Winston (Tnuat Aliya, Jewish Agency)*** Can I enlist at the age of 24 and 3 months?No.*** Are there any vision requirements, or restrictions for those who wear glasses (particularly in the sayarot)?Yes, in principle. It is the prerogative of the IDF to decide.*** How does the IDF determine where to place you? Does one have any say in where he/she is placed?Your preferences play a role in the IDF’s decision. The IDF has the last word, after your enlistment.*** What are the military's fitness standards (run times and distances, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups etc)?The IDF will bring you in shape starting from zero.*** What legal status do Mahal volunteers have in Israel?Mahal volunteers will most likely enter Israel with a B2 (tourist) visa, and change that at the Interior Ministry to A1 or A2 visa. The A2 status can be easily changed to a A1 (temporary resident), but the A1 cannot be changed easily to A2.*** Will it be possible to open up a bank account?Yes.*** Are Mahal volunteers required to pay taxes?There is no tax on your IDF salary and gifts you receive while enlisted.*** What happens if a Mahal volunteer dies in Israel? Who has custody over the body?The parents. We are not aware of any Mahal volunteer who died while serving in the IDF.*** Where can I obtain information on various contracts available to Mahal volunteers (if one would want to serve for a longer period of time, whether in a regular unit or due to acceptance into a Sayeret)?Ask the IDF. In principle you can get all contracts available to regular soldiers. Don’t be disappointed if you do not get an answer before enlisting.*** When and how do I get the status “Chayal Boded” (Lone Soldier)?You will be interviewed for Chayal Boded status following your medicals. If not, request such an interview. Otherwise, you will have to wait until the pre-basic training. The Mashakit (similar to an army social worker) will check your eligibility and give you official confirmation that you are a Chayal Boded.*** Am I eligible for benefits after discharge from the IDF?Please note that following is only general information, and you should check for details before your discharge: Discharged Mahal volunteers enjoy various benefits for discharged soldiers. Opting for an "upgraded legal status in Israel" after discharge from the IDF (from A1 or A2 to “immigrant”) makes you eligible for assistance from the Student Authority including exemption from university tuition fees for up to three years. The Student Authority tries to help all students in pre-academic programs and during their first year of studies to find housing in the student dormitories at a subsidized rate. Priority is given to students whose parents live abroad. "Lone" immigrants are entitled to assistance with rental fees for four years from immigration.*** Do Mahal volunteers serve in the IDF like the conscripted IDF soldiers?Yes, aside from the few weeks of pre-basic training and the length of service.*** I have done the Marva program/another program. Does that change the length of my service?No.*** I might not be eligible for a combat unit for health reasons. How could I help out in a non-combat unit?Most jobs in the IDF are non-combat, and the IDF has countless options.*** If I make aliyah does this alter the requirements for military service?It is too complicated to outline here all theoretical scenarios. This is complicated and requires that you consult regarding your individual case. If you remain non-Israeli the service through Mahal is 14 1/2 - 18 months (or longer, if you wish). If you get Israeli citizenship you are eligible for Shlav Bet, however the enlistment is delayed in many cases for about a year.*** My Hebrew is pretty good, so do you suggest I do an advanced ulpan, or just try and immerse myself in the culture in order to become fluent?There is no point in delaying your IDF service for improving your Hebrew from reasonable to very good.*** I have problems with my health. Can I still volunteer?Yes, if you are not significantly handicapped. The IDF’s medical decisions are made case by case, and there are no “pre-rulings”. However, we do not know of anybody who the IDF refused for lack of medical fitness, particularly since volunteers are known to be extremely motivated.*** Why does the Nahal Infantry Brigade’s insignia have a sickle on it?Historically, Nahal soldiers used to defend Israel by establishing agricultural outposts and working there as part of their service. Today that has changed and Nahal is just like all the other brigades, both in terms of training and service.*** Does the IDF have any units for English speakers?No. But most Israelis speak some English.*** If I have one or two years of military service in my country of origin, will that affect my IDF service?No. You must go through basic training, regardless.*** I served in the army of my country of origin and was told that I can not serve in the army of another country.The IDF will enlist you.*** Is it possible to become a police officer in Israel after serving in the IDF through Mahal?Yes.*** Am I obliged to do miluim (reserve duty) after the Mahal program?Generally yes, if you opt for Israeli citizenship after the IDF service and remain in Israel. If you leave Israel or do not become an Israeli citizen/permanent resident of Israel, reserve duty is not required.*** Do I have the option to return to my country of origin after the service in the IDF?Yes. Your are free to go wherever you like after discharge from the IDF.*** If I choose to become an Israeli citizen after the 14 1/2 (18) months of service through the Mahal IDF programs, do I have to do additional military service?No additional IDF service is required (except for the usual reserve duty, depending on circumstances).*** What would be the exact date of my enlistment?Go to Volunteering Step-by Step to find the enlistment dates as received from the IDF. There might be changes; before booking your flight recheck with the Ministry of Defense.*** I would like to study at the university in Israel after my service. Is tuition free? If so which universities and what programs?Discharged Mahal volunteers enjoy various benefits for discharged soldiers. Opting for an upgraded legal status in Israel after discharge from the IDF (from A1 or A2 to "immigrant") makes you eligible to assistance from the Student Authority including exemption from university tuition fees for up to three years. Please study the website of the Student Authority for further details.*** Can I volunteer for less than 14 1/2 (18) months service in the IDF?There is no IDF option for overseas volunteers under 14 1/2 (18) months. However, the regular IDF service "Shlav Bet" might be shorter than the Mahal IDF programs.*** Can Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org help me find out my health profile?No. Your health profile (physical/psychological assessment) is evaluated by the draft board of the IDF at your enlistment, and not by Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org. Generally, males with high health profiles will serve in combat units such as the Nahal Infantry Brigade and those with low health profiles in non-combat jobs that will be determined by the IDF depending on the army's needs and your personal abilities and ambitions. Female soldiers usually serve in non-combat units.*** Can a woman serve in a combat unit?Yes. The IDF does not ask women to serve in combat. Many women do serve in combat units as volunteers, for example in the Nahal Infantry Brigade unit called Karakal. This is a unit for women (97 profile women) and 72 profile men. They have red boots and short M-16s, they do Efes Chamesh tironut, etc. and they usually secure the border with Jordan and Egypt. *** Does Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org have representatives in other countries than Israel?No.*** I would like to speak with somebody from Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org.Mail us your questions and we will put you in touch with an expert, if you confirm that you studied the whole website including the FAQ.*** If I opt for Israeli citizenship after discharge from the IDF, do I have to live in Israel?No. Like in all democratic countries you can leave the country whenever you desire.*** Can I buy a car free of tax or with a tax discount in Israel? Do I have other benefits?Yes and a lot, depending on your status (Tourist, A1, A2, Immigrant, Returning Resident etc.) – see Department of Customs links. If benefits are limited for a certain period, generally your time in the IDF is added. Because of the complex issues, different personal circumstances and frequent changes, Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org cannot give further advice on the subject of taxes. However, the authorities and immigrants’ organizations listed on our "Zionism & Aliya" page might help.*** Do I loose benefits because of my service in the IDF?If benefits are limited for a certain period, generally your time in the IDF is added. In addition, you are entitled to benefits for active soldiers and discharged soldiers from the authorities and private organizations listed on our Help IDF Soldiers page.*** Do Israeli conscripts do the IDF pre-basic training (trom tironut) of about a month?No. This is for non-Israeli volunteers specifically for smoothing their way into the IDF. After the trom tironut your service is identical to other Israeli soldiers, depending on the job which the IDF will assign you.*** Can I get any trouble in my country of origin for serving in the IDF?Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is not aware of any problem encountered by over one thousand volunteers from more than 40 countries. In some countries, serving in a foreign army may jeopardize citizenship or result in other problems. For example, one of the grounds for involuntary loss of United States citizenship is joining the armed forces of a country at war with the U.S. Citizenship Laws of the World (pdf, 1.74 MB) - click here. Concerned volunteers are advised to clarify this matter in their country of origin. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org is releasing information to the Israeli government only. *** I am Shomer Shabat (religious)/what is Mahal Hesder?All Mahal IDF programs are fully suitable for Shomrei Shabat since the IDF is Shomer Shabat. However, Shomrei Shabat can choose to combine Tora study with IDF service in a separate program Mahal Hesder. Mahal Hesder takes 6 1/2 months at an Israeli yeshiva plus 14 1/2 months in a IDF Hesder unit. For more information contact Igud Yeshivot Hesder (54 King George St., Jerusalem, Israel, phone: +972-2-6209010, Fax +972-2-6221743, no email address, no website).*** If I serve in the IDF Nahal Infantry Brigade, can I serve as a paratrooper (tzanchan)?Nahal has a paratroop unit.*** Can I enlist before my 18th birthday?Only adults can enlist in the IDF, and you will have to wait for an enlistment date that is after your 18th birthday (Gregorian or Hebrew calendar). A difference of a few days might not matter. Click here for Gregorian/Hebrew calendar converter.*** Do Mahal/Nahal Infantry Brigade soldiers see any action? Do Mahalniks really serve in hotspots?Yes. Standoff
In Nablus IDF
to award 12 soldiers bravery citations
*** I already have two years of army experience and want to enlist only if I can be placed in a specific unit.You have only two choices. You can either enlist and hope that the IDF places you where you want (and take the chance of being disappointed) or drop your plans to join the IDF.*** What will the IDF provide?Practically everything you need, like accommodation, insurance, medical care, food, clothing, transportation etc.*** Will there be any salary?While enlisted you get a monthly salary and other benefits, after discharge a grant and other benefits. The figures vary depending on many factors, like Chayal Boded status, length of service, combat/non-combat etc. Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org estimates that usually a Chayal Boded will get monthly about 1,300 NIS in cash plus extra money for rent if you rent a place.*** What extras do you suggest I bring?In principle, the IDF should provide you with everything you really need. For an external list of extras click here. Some say that this list is outdated and the only extras you must bring is green t-shirts, white t-shirts, talcum (baby) powder, books to read, a digital watch with stopwatch, a cheap lighter or two, a pocket knife. There are stores in Israel which carry everything soldiers need. Much depends on the individual, but avoid expensive items that can be easily lost.*** I do not have an email address. Can I get your information by snail mail?No. There are numerous websites which offer free mailboxes. We suggest to obtain an email address because all tion is on our website or in personal emails sent to you.***
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| Mahal-IDF-Volunteers.org | Created by: Raphael Katz |
