|
|
The Israel Reserve Force was established along with and as part of the Israel Defense Force (IDF) in 1949-1950. The IDF was designed so that there was a large reserve force supporting a smaller force of regular soldiers. This system enabled a viable military response to military threats upon Israel despite the limits of manpower and economic constraints of a small country.
The nature of the Reserve Force, as it is known today, was formed during the first ten years of the State of Israel. The reserves were, and are still today, a significant component in the strength and power of the IDF. The Reserve Force has played a vital role in Israel's wars and operations, and until this day, contributes to the security of the state.
Although reserve service in the IDF is dictated by Israeli law, the thousands of citizens who carry out their service do so willingly and out of a genuine desire to contribute to the security needs of the nation. As soon as they receive the call-up notice, they are ready to leave their families, their jobs and their studies in order to join their units for active service.
The Israel Reserve Force has been involved in all of Israel's wars, fighting on all of its fronts. In many cases, the reserves were called up without any advance notice as, for example, in the Yom Kippur War of 1973.
A reserve soldier commonly serves approximately one month per year, depending on training requirements and planned activities. In difficult times, reserve soldiers serve longer, such as was the case following the Yom Kippur War when many reserves served for six months.
The Israel Reserve Force carries out military operations and routine activities, shoulder to shoulder with IDF regular forces, with a high level of competence.
Since the establishment of the State of Israel, many reserve soldiers have fallen in the line of duty. The State of Israel remember those who sacrificed their lives for their country, and will always support their families.
The Israeli society appreciates the importance of the Israel Reserve Force, in its contribution to national security through active participation as well as its contribution to the IDF's deterrent posture. The very service of the reserves represents the national values embraced by the IDF of giving, volunteering, and self-sacrifice for the benefit of the general public. These forces stand steadfast with the Israeli people and are worthy of admiration and support.
Brig. General Ariel Heimann
Chief Reserves Officer
