Israeli Medal Recipients

By Avi Heiligman

Medals and citations are awarded by militaries worldwide for exemplary actions both on and off the battlefield. Every country has its own criteria, and those awarded are often given other benefits such as monetary awards in addition to a medal. Israel has several awards; here are stories of a few of the well-deserving recipients.

Chaim Neveh was born in Budapest, Hungary, in 1933 and was being sent to Auschwitz when his mother pushed him to escape. He survived the rest of the war and made his way to Eretz Yisrael which was under the British Mandate. At the age of 20, in 1953, Neveh joined the IDF and two years later graduated from flight school. During the 1956 Sinai Campaign, he flew a P-51 Mustang and later transitioned to flying helicopters. Helicopters were a fairly new invention, and Israel was keen on acquiring the aircraft and training pilots to fly them operationally. Neveh became the operations officer with the 124 Squadron, which was the first Israeli helicopter squadron. The unit flew the Sikorsky S-58 that was mainly used for transport.

Under Neveh, the squadron was active during several operations and soon was fully coordinating training and missions with other units like the paratroopers. In 1966, Neveh was selected to command Squadron 114. It was called the Night Carrier Squadron and flew the more versatile Aérospatiale SA 321 Super Frelon heavy transport helicopter. During the Six Day War, Neveh led the squadron in operations to and from the front lines. These operations included evacuation of wounded soldiers, transport of troops, and supplying those on the front lines. A year later, he flew on a dam-busting operation against Egypt and flew paratroopers to Beirut during a raid at the airport. For his actions and contributions in establishing the IAF’s helicopter units, Neveh was awarded the Medal of Distinguished Service.

The Israeli Medal of Courage was established in 1970 and is awarded for acts of gallantry during combat. Some recipients were given the medal retroactively, as was the case with Yishai Zimmerman for his actions during a raid against Egyptian positions in 1955. Zimmerman had joined the IDF in 1952 and was first assigned to a battalion in the Armored Corps. He then volunteered to join the ranks of Unit 101 which was formed in response to attacks coming from across the southern Israeli border. The unit was short-lived, and soon Zimmerman volunteered and accepted a position as an officer for the paratroopers.

Operation Volcano took place on the night of November 2, 1955. The Israeli victory was marred by six IDF soldiers that were killed in the raid. Zimmerman commanded a sub-unit sent to take over an Egyptian outpost but soon ran into stiff enemy resistance. The position was an Egyptian command post and included a mortar section. The raid soon ground to a halt as most of the officers and men were wounded and out of action. Zimmerman then became a one-man squad and assaulted the enemy’s position until the resistance was eliminated and the post was destroyed.

The next year, Zimmerman participated in the Sinai Campaign and later joined a paratrooper patrol unit. During the Six Day War, he was shot in the hand during an exercise with paratroopers during the Battle for Jerusalem. He was active during the 1973 Yom Kippur War as an officer in an anti-tank patrol unit that was sent to defeat the Egyptian troops near the Suez Canal.

Well after most soldiers retired from duty in the military, Zimmerman continued to serve. He was employed as a Merkava tank driver to transport the vehicles during campaigns as recently as Operation Protective Edge in 2014. He served with famous IDF personnel including Ariel Sharon and Meir Har-Zion and continued to serve in the IDF Reserves well into his 80s.

The Israeli equivalent of the Navy SEALs is the Shayetet 13 - Flotilla 13. Gadi Kroll was of the most decorated sailors to serve in the unit and received two medals. He joined the IDF in 1961 and went through rigorous training to become a naval special operator. During the Six Day War, Kroll was sent on a covert mission to a Syrian port, but the mission was aborted as the commander deemed it too risky. He commanded a squad during the Green Island in 1969 that was a part of the War of Attrition. Kroll threw a grenade against a gun position, and soon it was eliminated. Several other positions were taken out by Kroll, including a radar section that was a key part of the operation. He then helped the Israelis withdraw from the island by taking out several more enemy soldiers. For his actions during the raid, Kroll received the Medal of Distinguished Service.

Kroll was awarded the Medal of Courage for actions during the Yom Kippur War. Egyptian Kumar missile ships were present in the Red Sea and blocking the Israelis from undertaking raids in the area. Teams from Shayetet 13 were sent out in rubber boats to take out the Kumars, but the Israelis had to turn around before engaging the enemy. Kroll and Dan Uziali were then sent out as a dive team to try and reach the targets. Another dive team failed to reach the boats, but Kroll and Uziali managed to penetrate the harbor despite grenades being thrown into the water. They tried placing magnetic mines on the belly of the boat but the mines didn’t stick. They then made their way to the propellers and stuck the mines on, which caused significant damage to the boat when the mines later exploded. For his actions during the seven-hour mission Kroll was awarded the Medal of Courage. Kroll was involved in several other operations and in 1977 became deputy commander of the flotilla.

The IDF historically hasn’t awarded as many medals as other countries have like the U.S., but when they do, it is clearly well deserved. The recipients’ stories may not always make headline news, making them Forgotten Heroes.

Services Houses For Sale

PEACEFUL PRESENCE STUDIO

Men’s private yoga, Licensed Massage & Holistic Health Guidance

436 Central Ave, Cedarhurst

Info. & free video training www.peacefulpresence.com

516-371-3715

GERBER MOVING FULL SERVICE MOVING

Packing Moving Supplies

Local Long Distance

Licensed Insured

1000’S Of Happy Customers

Call Shalom 347-276-7422

HANDYMAN AVAILABLE

For big or small jobs, Sheetrock, carpentry, painting, electrical, plumbing, install & repair appliances

Call Ephraim at 347-593-4691

VACUUM SALES AND REPAIR

All areas call Max Flam 718-444-4904

MANAGEMENT STAFF WILL ASSIST you with:

* Obtaining Medicaid and Pooled Income Trust

* In-home Assessments, Individual and Family Counseling

* Securing reliable home care assistance

* Case and Care Management services

Dr. S. Sasson, DSW, LCSW (718) 544- 0870 or (646) 284-6242

HAIR COURSE:

Learn how to wash & style hair & wigs. Hair and wig cutting, wedding styling Private lessons or in a group

Call Chaya 718-715-9009

ZEVIZZ WOODTURNING JUDAICA

Challah knifes, batei mezuzah, besamim holder, kiddish cups, havdalah candle holders, yad for sefer torah, pens, stenders, bowls and more 952-356-2228

WOODMERE

Move right in. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms split level. Features eat-in-kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, formal living room and dining room, main floor family room with fireplace, 2 master bedrooms with full bathrooms, central a/c, gas, heat, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, cedar closet, sauna, generator and much more. $1,115,000.

Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

LAWRENCE

Stunning One of a Kind Mid Century Modern 6 Bedroom, 6.5 Bath, Contemporary Ranch. Resort Style Home on Over an Acre of Property in Back Lawrence. Incredible Views, Regulation Size Tennis Court - Deco Turf. IG-Gunite Pool, Low Taxes, 5318 sq. ft. of Main Floor Living Space. Plus 5000 sq. ft. Basement With Very High Ceilings. Call Mark 516-298-8457 for more details Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

NORTH WOODMERE

Stunning Split , 5 Bedrooms With 3 Full Baths. Custom Features Throughout. Well Maintained Home. Hardwood Floors, Granite Counters in kitchen, Formal Living Room and Dining Room, Den, Full Finished Basement. Relax in the Private Backyard With Inground Pool. SD#14. A must see! Close To All Houses of Worship Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

FAR ROCKAWAY

House for sale by owner. Built 2006, semi-attached, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, playroom; great natural light; 3,000 sf, oversized rooms, double closets throughout; MBR suite with en-suite bathroom, vaulted ceiling, and 3 walk-in closets; gourmet kosher kitchen, space for entertaining, 2-zone HVAC, deck with permanent sukkah/pergola, 2 add’l balconies, 2-car garage plus 2 private parking spaces, fenced side yard, exclusive beach access, great neighbors. Original owner, well maintained, many extras. Priced to sell at 929k. Call or WhatsApp 917-882-6438

Houses For Sale Houses For Sale

WOODMERE

Beautiful, brick, colonial boasting 5 bdr 3.5 Bth in pristine condition. Excellent location, near all! Move right in! RCUSA 516-512-9626

WOODMERE

Beautiful Hi-Ranch In The Heart of Woodmere Featuring 3 Bedrooms Plus Additional Bedroom On Lower Level With Half Bath. This Easy Living Home Has Huge Windows And The Master Suite Has A Full Bathroom. This Oversized, Airy Galley Eat-InKitchen Offers Sliders To The Wood Deck. Full Finished Lower Level, Beautiful Wood Floors - Sliders To The Patio And Garage Entrance. New roof, New Hot Water Heater - Close To All. Don’t Miss This Opportunity To Make This Your Home! Wont Last - Call For A Private Viewing. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE

Charming Colonial on beautiful tree lined street in the heart of Old Woodmere. Home features 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, kitchen, dining area, living room, full basement. Relatively new heating system + hot water tank. Large & beautiful backyard. Great for entertaining. Close to all. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

CEDARHURST JUST LISTED

Magnificent renovated 4 bedroom 3 bathroom in SD#15, new roof, windows, plumbing + electric, gas cooking, new marble bathrooms, marble kitchen with stainless steel appliances, LED lighting, security cameras and speakers throughout the home, custom closets, outdoor patio, 1 car garage, near all. OPEN HOUSE Sunday, June 18 • 12:00-2:00PM 331 PENINSULA BLVD. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

CEDARHURST

Beautiful, Well-Maintained Colonial In The Heart Of Cedarhurst. 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Baths. Brand New Roof. Eat-In-Kitchen, Formal Living Room & Dining Room. Hardwood Floors Throughout. Low Taxes. Close To All Shopping, Transportation and many Houses of Worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-2988457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

DON’T GET STUCK WITH A TWO STORY HOUSE YA KNOW, IT’S ONE STORY BEFORE YOU BUY IT BUT A SECOND STORY AFTER YOU OWN IT! Call Dov Herman

For An Accurate Unbiased Home Inspection Infrared - Termite Inspection Full Report All Included NYC 718-INSPECT Long Island 516-INSPECT www.nyinspect.com

BAYSWATER OPENHOUSE:

This Sunday from 10-3pm 1510 EGMONT PLACE

Beautiful 2 family house for sale by owner on beautiful block in Bayswater

First floor includes: 3 bedrooms, 1 kitchen, and 1 bathroom, living room and dining room

Second Floor Rental apartment includes: 3 bedrooms, 1 kitchen with washer dryer hookup, 1 bathroom, living room and dining room

Basement includes:

1 bedroom, kitchenette, laundry room, beautiful large den plus large Utility room with lots of closet space, On Cul-de-sac next to park, views of the bay, large backyard, Great rental income or can be remodeled to large 1 family New to market- motivated seller Or text 917-538-1164 for an appointment

WOODMERE

Welcome to this stunning residence situated on a tranquil residential street in Lawrence SD#15. This spacious and flawlessly maintained home boasts 4 to 5 bedrooms. Bright, airy living room with vaulted ceilings, skylights and wet bar. Central air conditioning, elegant quartz countertops, eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, main floor den with fireplace, master bedroom with bathroom snd dressing room, Jacuzzi tub, three other bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Inground sprinklers, lush landscaping, alarm system. Spacious playroom. Two-car garage. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE

New to the market. 3 bedroom 2 full bathrooms with a full basement. Ranch home in the heart of Woodmere, SD#15, on a lot sized 90x118, gas heat, garage. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

Houses For Sale Houses For Sale For Rent In Israel

CAN’T AFFORD YOUR PROPERTY TAXES? MORTGAGE?

Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available!

West Hempstead

Introducing a stunning new construction home. Nestled in a picturesque neighborhood. Large windows, open-concept layout that merges the various living spaces. The expansive living room is bathed in natural light, thanks to the windows that offer great views of the surrounding area. Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, expansive center island with a breakfast bar. Ample counter space and a welldesigned layout. Wonderful dining area providing. Large glass doors, spacious patio. Luxurious master suite with a spacious bedroom, a lavish ensuite bathroom and a large walk-in closet. Additional bedrooms. High-end finishes, premium flooring, and custom details throughout. Call for pricing Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE

Spectacular 5 bedroom, 5 bath renovated home in SD#14 with in-ground pool & pool house, lot size 111 x 107. Formal living room & dining room, magnificent kitchen with SS appliances, tremendous den with fireplace and 4 skylights, vaulted ceiling, LED lighting, master suite, new CAC, new roof. Outside totally redone with Stone and Stucco. Backyard with new pavers, park-like property, sandbox, great home for entertaining. Close to all.

Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@ bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE

New to Market! Newly Renovated Balcony Split Located In The Heart of Woodmere! Spacious Layout

Featuring 6 Bedrooms & 3 Full Baths. This Stunning Home Has Everything

You Want. This Gorgeous Open Floor Plan, Offers New Roof, New Electric, New Plumbing, Gas Home. Don’t Miss This Opportunity For A Gracious, Airy, Open Layout. Close to All. A Must See!!! Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

Houses For Sale

NEW & LUXURIOUS

WOODMERE

OWNER

Cedarhurst House For Sale By

In the heart of Cedarhurst

(Close to Woodmere , Lirr & Cedarhurst Park)

EIK Kosher Kitchen/ Dr/Lr/Family Room/ Playroom/ 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths/ Basement: 2 Bedrooms, 1 Full Bath, Kitchenette, Separate Entrance

Asking $1.3m Whatsapp Text Only: 845-213-0002

No Brokers

Lawrence

New to the market Generously sized 1 bedroom 1.5 bathroom coop in an elevator building, with a 24 hour doorman, underground parking, double terrace, central air conditioning, washer/dryer and storage on the floor, eat-in-kitchen, living room and dining room, no steps into the building or to the apartment, minutes from shopping, park, transportation, and houses of worship. $479,000 Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International

516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

WOODMERE

New to the market. 4 bedroom, center hall, colonial in SD#15, plus a full finished basement, 2 car garage. Gas, heat, central a/c, kitchen with stainless stell appliances. Granite countertops, formal living room and dining room, main floor den with fireplace, hardwood floors and so much more. OPEN HOUSE JUNE 11 • 12:00-2:00PM 749 ADDISON STREET

Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International

516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com

3 apartments all in one building on separate floors (every apartment 2BR

7BEDS) Jerusalem between Jaffa St. / Ha-nevi’im Street. Can accommodate 14 - 21 guests - Sukkot Sept 26October 10 we can do all year round to get photos contact WhatsApp Avi @ +972504999910 www.StayInJerusalem.com

PLEASE no agents!!!!!

YERUSHALAIM SUMMER RENTAL: Amazing location! Across the street from OsherAd supermarket/RavShefa Mall Just two blocks from Malchei Yisroel- Stunning and clean fully furnished apt. Just Two floors up, 3 beds, 2 Bathrooms, Large couch, spacious porch with table and chairs + hammock, Washer & dryer in Apt. fresh linen and towels included. Free high speed WiFi router in (and exclusive to) the apt! All for a great price-Weisssarahm@gmail.com 216-223-8853

Well maintained 1 Bedroom apartment. Elevator Building. Pet Friendly, SD#14, Corner Unit, Bright + Sunny, Hardwood Floors, Eat-in Kitchen, Full Bathroom, 3 Closets, 2 Ceiling Fans, 1 A/C Unit, Full Time Super on Premises. Minutes from the Railroad, Shopping, Houses of Worship, and Laundry Room on Premises. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-$175K

Hewlett

Totally renovated 1 and 2 Bedroom, Apartments with washer/dryer, kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances. Recessed lighting, hardwood floors, storage in basement. Close to RR, shopping, and houses of worship. Mark Lipner Associate Broker Berkshire Hathaway Laffey International 516-298-8457 mlipner@bhhslaffey.com