Personal reflections after two years

October 7, 2023, 6:29 a.m. The date and time are etched into my memory, and every lover of Israel, like a scar that will never fade. It was a morning that started like any other, the sun rising, casting a golden aura over the sleepy town of Modiin. Little did I know that in a matter of minutes, my life, and the lives of all my fellow citizens, and indeed Jews throughout the world, would be forever changed.

Hamas broke yet another ceasefire and launched over 5,000 rockets in just twenty minutes and breached the billion-dollar fence that was supposed to protect us. The scale of the attack was unprecedented, leaving a trail of destruction and havoc in its wake. The numbers were staggering: 1,139 Israelis and 71 foreigners dead, 4,834 wounded, and 253 kidnapped. The evil brutality of the Palestinian terrorists and marauders knew no bounds, as they unleashed unspeakable horrors on innocent civilians.

Amid the chaos and devastation, a sense of unity and resilience emerged among the people of Israel. The society that had become so deeply divided came together in a show of solidarity that was both awe-inspiring and heart-wrenching. Ordinary citizens became heroes, stepping up to fill the void left by a government and military overwhelmed by the scale of the disaster.

I became swept up in the tide of patriotism and determination that spread through the country. Despite being well past the age of reserve duty, I insisted on joining the fight. After a seventeen-year hiatus, I found myself back in uniform, ready to defend my homeland with everything I had. It was a decision driven by a deep sense of duty and love for my country, a willingness to sacrifice everything for the land that had become my home. My reserve IDF combat medical extraction unit (Palmar) was filled with men and women like me who volunteered and stopped their lives for the duration.

An unbelievable two years later, as the last hostages, both living and dead, are finally on the cusp of being returned home and one of the major war aims is met – the release of all the hostages – we need to pause and thank the men and women of the IDF.

The people power of the IDF is a force to be reckoned with, a reflection of the staunch support and consensus of Israel’s people. The role of the IDF in Israeli society is pivotal, with citizens from all backgrounds and beliefs coming together to serve their country. Military service in Israel is universal, and the sense of responsibility and maturity instilled in every soldier is a powerful mechanism of national integration and identity. The IDF is not just a military institution but a socialising force that plays a crucial role in forging Israeli identity and cohesion.

The men and women of the IDF, whether in compulsory service or as reservists, are the backbone of our country, the embodiment of strength, compassion, and morality that inspires hope and unity among our citizens and supporters worldwide.

My time in the IDF throughout my life, but especially these past two years, from regular service to reserve duty and wartime service, has been a transformative experience that allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life. The diversity of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences within our unit is a confirmation of the unifying power of a common cause: to defend our homeland and our people. The bonds forged in the crucible of service transcend divisions and differences and taught me to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us.

The sacrifices made by the men and women of the IDF, coming from all walks of life and every corner of the globe, serve as a powerful reminder of the deep sense of duty and honour that drives them to serve our country. Their stories of courage and resilience inspire not only those around them but the entire nation, showcasing the strength and unity that emerges in times of adversity. We have paid a heavy price in blood with the best of our men and women. Nine hundred and fifteen holy heroes, including 467 IDF troops in the Gaza ground offensive, have paid the ultimate price. Additionally, thousands have been wounded, both physically and mentally, in this war. They will carry their scars for the rest of their days. Freedom is not free.

In a world where chaos and uncertainty reign, where danger lurks around every corner, there are those who defy all odds and step up to the challenge. These are the unsung heroes of the IDF who generously give of themselves to protect and save others. It took a war for us to find our current sense of unity, and we must hold on to it fiercely in the face of external pressures and internal strife. In the words of Jared Kushner in Hostage Square yesterday:

I just want to thank the amazing soldiers of the IDF. Without their heroism and brilliance and bravery, this deal would not have been possible.

The above contains excerpts from my forthcoming book about my experiences in my IDF Combat Medical Extraction Unit (Palmar) on the Gaza front these past two years. I focus on the wonderful men and women in my unit and on how we have revolutionised battlefield medical treatment. It will be published by Geffen Publishers.

Tuvia Book is an IDF reservist.