FIDF Live Hosts Town Hall Spotlighting Active-Duty Lone Soldiers

Do you ever wonder what it would be like to volunteer in the Israeli army? Friends of the IDF (FIDF) offered its supporters an exclusive glimpse into the daily lives of IDF Lone Soldiers – soldiers who have no immediate family in Israel, often volunteering from abroad – during last night’s “FIDF LIVE” episode. The unique video production – part of an ongoing effort that brings news and events from the ground in Israel into the homes of over a million viewers – continues to inspire and educate viewers far and wide since it launched in 2021.

The June 29th episode showcased the inspiring stories of three active-duty Lone Soldiers in a community town hall forum. Viewers had the opportunity to hear details behind their personal journeys, ask questions about their decisions to enlist, and gain an intimate understanding of their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for their service.

Sgt. Jacob from Orange County, CA took viewers through his experience as a combat soldier in the Nahal Infantry Brigade. In college, Sgt. Jacob, was part of a Jewish fraternity, volunteered for AIPAC, and was an activist against BDS campaigns around campus. At 19, he traveled to Israel for the first time and was inspired. He continued to visit, learn more about the culture and politics, and finally decided to enlist into the IDF.

Viewers also met Lt. Hayley from New Jersey who serves in the IDF Spokesperson Unit as the Officer of Reservists of the Bureau. Since age 12, Lt. Hayley had been thinking about making Aliyah. As a college student, she experienced antisemitism on campus and also fought against the BDS movement. In 2019 Lt. Hayley made Aliyah, and in 2020 she joined the IDF. She spoke about her involvement in Operation Guardian of the Walls, during which she dodged a nearby missile that shattered her home. Additionally, she expressed gratitude for the abundant support she and other Lone Soldiers receive from FIDF throughout their service.

Lastly, the episode featured Lt. Yael, a Lone Soldier from South Africa, who serves as a Deputy Platoon Commander in the Lavi Habika Battalion. A high school student when Operation Protective Edge was launched, Lt. Yael was active on social media where she proactively supported Israel but felt that she needed to do more. She decided to join the IDF and take an active role in protecting Israel as a combat soldier.

“We are humbled by the bravery, selflessness and passion for the safety of Israel that Lone Soldiers exemplify day after day. They are true heroes, and it’s important that our supporters understand what is at stake for these young men and women, and what they give up to protect the Jewish homeland,” said Steve Weil, CEO of FIDF. “We are honored that we can help to share their stories through our ‘FIDF Live’ platform.”

“FIDF LIVE,” hosted by American former Lone Soldier and author Joel Chasnoff, is a high-level production broadcast that brings awareness of FIDF’s mission and activities to a broader audience. By introducing content through this platform, FIDF is connecting Americans and the world to Israel. FIDF has always been a bridge between Americans and Israelis, and this virtual experience continues that tradition in a novel way, serving as the place for everyone who loves Israel and wants to stay connected.

To watch last night’s “FIDF LIVE” episode, please visit: HERE