Delegation of New England FIDF supporters participate in exclusive women’s mission to Israel

TEL AVIV, Israel, (August 25, 2022) – A delegation of 17 female Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) supporters from New England took part in an exclusive Women’s Mission to Israel in July. The mission was highlighted by private briefings from IDF generals and government officials, inspiring behind-the-scenes visits with soldiers at six different IDF bases and an immersive boot camp experience.

The 8-day mission included an incomparable lineup of activities that only FIDF can offer. Led by Mission Chair and New England FIDF Board Chair Sharon Mishkin, participants navigated military life alongside IDF soldiers at multiple bases, including the air force and combat intelligence, received a private briefing from the Gender Advisor to the IDF’s Chief of Defense at the Kirya, and witnessed the transformative work being done for at-risk youth and soldiers with disabilities at the IDF’s Education Corps.

The journey also offered insights from incredible speakers such as a distinguished former Major General, a past Mossad agent, a preeminent geopolitical scholar, a 15-year Israeli diplomat, a world-renowned expert on resilience, and numerous IDF commanders and officers.

Eli Dassa / Strategic Image. Courtesy of FIDF

“It was important to show the participants of this mission the true character of this army. The ethical guidelines that the IDF follows are vital for Israel,” said Mishkin. “These soldiers are the same people who are part of society after service — the doctors, teachers, lawyers, bus drivers. It’s essential that they serve with the utmost morality so they can return to live with others, and with themselves, in healthy, benevolent communities. We are grateful that FIDF gave us this once-ina-lifetime opportunity.”

While the women enjoyed Jeep rides in the Golan, a spiritual Shabbat in Jerusalem and fun nights out in Tel Aviv, the most meaningful moments were those spent with the IDF soldiers, for whom they developed an even deeper appreciation and admiration while listening to their personal stories. The group also had an amazing opportunity to “walk in their boots” during a grueling four-anda-half-hour bootcamp, where they got just a small taste of the physical fortitude and mental strength these young men and women must possess during their service.

“No doubt, the bootcamp instilled a sense of pride in each of us. We recognized our own abilities and maybe conquered a few fears, but we were humbled by seeing, fi rst-hand, the impact FIDF is making through programs in education, financial relief and Lone Soldier support,” said Luba Loewenberg, executive director, FIDF New England. “We’re returning as a strong, collective force, eager to continue this important work together. It’s exciting to see where we’ll take it from here.”

About Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF)

FIDF was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c)(3) not-forprofit organization with the mission of offering educational, cultural, recreational and social programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.fidf.org.