Netzah Yehuda Battalion Honored at FIDF Event

On Sunday, Aug. 27, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) joined over 130 community members at the Nahal Haredi Reception honoring Haradi soldiers and the Netzah Yehuda Battalion.  

“The biennial FIDF fundraiser for Nahal Haredi holds immense significance within the Los Angeles community,” Jenna Griffin, executive director of FIDF, western region Los Angeles, told the Journal. “Nahal Haredi allows these soldiers to serve in the army while respecting their religious observance, and the funds raised at the event serve as a crucial source of support to address the unique challenges these soldiers face.” 

Hosted by Debbie and Naty Saidoff and led by FIDF Chairman Emeritus Peter Weintraub, the event honored FIDF Western Region Founder Leo David for his visionary leadership and decades of support for Israel’s soldiers.

“This occasion not only exemplifies our unwavering commitment to these dedicated defenders of Israel but also stands as a living testament to the visionary foundation laid by Leo David,” Griffin said. “Through his indomitable spirit and dedication, our chapter stands strong, united by a shared purpose: to stand by those who stand for us.”

David Hager, national and local FIDF board member, was granted the President’s Award for his exemplary work with Netzah Yehuda earlier this year. He chaired the event with his wife Judy, alongside the Saidoffs.

Hager was one of the founders of the Netzah Yehuda Association. For more than 20 years, he has devoted his time to incorporating Haredi courses in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This has ensured the integration of graduates into Israeli society. 

Hager was one of the founders of the Netzah Yehuda Association. For more than 20 years, he has devoted his time to incorporating Haredi courses in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This has ensured the integration of graduates into Israeli society. 

Social and cultural challenges have left many in the Haredi community facing hardships, creating wide financial disparities and affecting the economic stability of Israel.  Thousands of Haredi veterans owe their success in all areas of life to Hager, the first non-resident of Israel to receive the award.

“In these days of polarization and the deepening of the Israeli internal rift, the integration of Haredi soldiers into the IDF signifies more than just their participation,” said Hager. “Their service enriches the military’s capabilities, enhances unity and exemplifies the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and shared responsibility for its defense.”

During the event, Sergeant Yishai Berendt spoke about his meaningful service in Netzah Yehuda, after which his parents, who hail from North Carolina, surprised him on stage. 

According to FIDF, the touching reunion symbolized the profound significance of unwavering support and unity for the soldiers. Family, friends and community play a vital role in the lives of these dedicated soldiers and reinforce their commitment to protecting and defending their homeland.

“FIDF is an organization with a noble mission: to provide unwavering support to the brave men and women who protect Israel,” Griffin said. “It unites people from various backgrounds and beliefs under the common cause of ensuring that those who protect Israel can fulfill their duties with the knowledge that there is an incredible network of supporters that stand firmly behind them.”

FIDF was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors as a not-for-profit organization. Its mission is to transform the lives of the young men and women of the IDF, supporting those who protect Israel and Jews worldwide through empowering educational, financial, well-being and cultural initiatives. FIDF, which supports soldiers before, during and after their service, as well as families of fallen soldiers and wounded veterans. 

There are 25 FIDF chapters throughout the United States.

The organization is gearing up for its November 2nd event, where it will pay tribute to Israel’s soldiers and commemorate 75 years of courage and strength. 

“The unwavering support generously extended by the Los Angeles community to FIDF has been nothing short of inspiring,” Griffin said. “We have complete confidence that this evening will stand as a powerful testament of unity for these valiant soldiers.”