Jewish Link readers are well aware that despite its best efforts, the IDF has been unable to supply all its soldiers with the best protective gear. Grassroots groups stepped in to help fill the gap.
Here’s a report by my incredible nephew, Major Ohad (last name omitted):
“I’m a major (Res.) in the IDF, serving as the headquarters company commander of the —- tank battalion. On Oct. 7, our battalion was mobilized under emergency activation, and a week later, with all tanks in hand, were deployed to the Gaza front. The battalion was enlisted for four months and served as the main fire power of the –th paratroopers brigade in the war against Hamas in Gaza.
“We fought fiercely in numerous locations within the Gaza Strip, with significant military and intelligence achievements. Unfortunately, out of approximately 600 soldiers in the battalion, we lost one soldier on the battlefield and still have five wounded soldiers that are in different rehabilitation stages.
“As the headquarters company commander, it is my responsibility to supply the battalion with all necessary manpower and equipment required for combat. Obviously, there are enlisted men within the army with the sole purpose of verifying all needs are met and complete, but the reality is that we lacked and still lack sufficient and basic equipment. I would split our shortages into two main categories: (a) proper combat gear and (b) equipment necessary for holding our position beyond enemy lines.
“Before listing these ‘must have’ items, I feel compelled to clarify that there are clear reasons why we didn’t receive the full support from the military in this manner.
“Our battalion is composed of 100% reserve duty soldiers, meaning, we all have our civilian lives and occupations and are called to duty as required. On a regular year, we will be called for active service for roughly 30 days out of the year for a variety of assignments. Therefore, we are issued equipment that is supposed to last for a shorter duration, and suitable for easier conditions.
“Starting on Oct. 7, we found ourselves entering a war zone (also within our own borders) and for a lengthy period. This apocalyptic scenario was beyond our wildest imagination, leaving us stranded having to improvise to get along. That being said, we understand that we are still facing a significant front both in the north and in the south, where the proper equipment will directly lead to lives being saved and improving our ability to wreak havoc upon our enemies.
“These are the main items that we struggled getting along without during our recent deployment:
(a) Proper combat gear: *70* level 4 tactical helmets and body armor; *100* hydration bladders; *20* military grade optics and scopes for M16 & M4 rifles; *50* combat/pocket knives, *120* sets of protective gear (eyewear, knee pads, tactical gloves) and *40* combat shoes.
(b) Equipment necessary for holding our position beyond enemy lines: *5* silent diesel powered generators; *50* tents for 2 soldiers; *12* portable outdoor spotlights; *12* foldable gazebos; *7* cordless power tool sets; and *7* heavy duty car jump starters.
“Any assistance in fulfilling these needs would be greatly appreciated. (End of report.)”
The guys in the tanks could be your family, your friends. They’re fighting for Israel, for Am Yisrael. As I write these words, the total IDF casualties last week were a heartbreaking: 11. Could some have been saved by better protective gear?
Let’s do everything we can to help the IDF protect all of us — now.
I urge interested JL readers to click on an excellent local effort, Unit 11741, which has already raised and spent almost $1.5 million for IDF units in need. They’ve developed the deep expertise to know where to buy the best gear at the best price, and to get it right to the proper destination.
Please copy, paste and click on Unit11741.com, then Donate. Click on Comments and write Team Ohad.
Your tax-deductible donation will be channeled through the Chabad of the Upper West Side. You can also find Unit 11741 on WhatsApp. If you send a check, please make it out to CTeen Upper West Side and send it to 170 West 97th St.,, New York, 10025. Write Unit 11741/Team Ohad on the memo line.
Shalom al Yisrael.
