Israel Reserve Force

  • Issue: August 2007
  • Designer: Gal Najari & Yigal Gabay
  • Stamp Size: 40 mm x 30.8 mm
  • Plate no.: 682 (no phosphor bar)
  • Sheet of 15 stamps Tabs: 5
  • Printers: E. Lewin-Epstein Ltd.
  • Method of printing: offset

The foundations of the Israel Defense Forces Reserve Force were laid during 1949-1950, when the I.D.F. as a whole was being developed. The model used was a large reserve force alongside a small regular army force, aimed at providing a national military solution for the manpower limitations of a small country with constrained economic means.

The Reserve Force then, as now, constituted a significant component of the strength and power of the I.D.F. and a central part of its resilience. The power of this force stemmed not only from its scope, but more essentially from the quality of its manpower. The Reserve Force was and still is a vital element in wars and ongoing security operations, with the events of the past year providing a vivid reminder of its importance.

The Reserve Force is made up of many thousands of civilians who, while called up for service by law, display loyalty and a willingness to contribute to the state. Reserve soldiers are prepared to be called up with no prior notification, leaving workplaces, studies, and especially families in order to serve, and when necessary to fight.

The Reserve Force has taken part in every one of Israel's wars, fighting on all fronts. In the Second Lebanese War, as in all of Israel's other wars, the men and women reserve soldiers reported for duty in full strength, displaying high motivation and fighting with determination and skill shoulder to shoulder with the regular army units.

The reserve soldiers' service constitutes a reflection of such values as giving, volunteering and taking action on behalf of the public at large. From the start, these soldiers embodied the beautiful side of Israeli society in their undertaking of the challenge of ensuring the security of the population and the homeland. Israeli society is witness to the importance of the Reserve Force to the security, the deterrent capacity and the steadfastness of the Jewish people, and owes the reserve soldiers a debt of gratitude and support.

Many reserve soldiers have fallen in action since the establishment of the State of Israel, many have been wounded, and others have been taken prisoner by the enemy. The State of Israel remembers those who have given their lives for their homeland and will support their families forever.

Brigadier General Danny Van Buren
Chief Reserves Officer
Israel Defense Force

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Israel Reserve Force — Israel's Elite