What kinds of risk do members of Israeli's elite Navy SEALS take in order to carry out their secret missions for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF)?
Find out first hand, when individuals from this group of the best of the world's special forces speak about their challenges and triumphs in combat at Ahavath Torah Congregation on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. as part of the Hausman Memorial Speaker Series.
The Israeli Navy SEALs, also known as the Naval Commandos and Shayetet -- or "Shin" -- 13, is one of the elite combat units in Israel's Defense Forces (IDF). Its insignia is a bat (in Hebrew "Atalef" ) carrying a hand grenade.
Its motto:"Like a bat out of the darkness, like a grenade exploding in thunder.' Shin 13 specializes in sea-to-land incursions, counter-terrorism, sabotage, maritime intelligence gathering, maritime hostage rescue, and boarding.
The unit is one of the most secretive in the Israeli military and the details of many missions and identities of active operatives are kept highly classified.
Among military analysts, the Israeli Naval Commandos are regarded to be among the best of the world’s special forces; they are often compared to the US Navy SEALs and Britain's Special Boat Service.
The unit is the author of some of the IDF's most legendary escapades, including among others, the 1969 Raid on Green Island, the 1973 Raid on Beirut (also known as Springtime of Youth), and the 1980s rescue of Ethiopian Jews from the Sudan (also known as Operation Moses).
The Atalef Foundation is dedicated to supporting the SEALs during their demanding regular and reserve military service, and to supporting the them during their re-entry to civilian society.
It is also committed to helping the SEALs realize their promise to Israeli society by encouraging and assisting each of them to contribute to society the unique skills and talents that they exhibited and acquired during their years of military service.
The Atalef Foundation serves the Shayetet 13 SEALs through many initiatives, including: welfare, health, and career development.
These are reflected in various sectors: education, personal development and civic volunteering. This is a rare opportunity to hear stories firsthand from these courageous young men (are they all men?) as they fight the challenges of terrorism that beset their country every day.
For further information contact Rabbi Jonathan Hausman at Ahavath Torah Congregation at 781-344-8733.
Please note that there will be no photography, recording or backpacks allowed. Security will be provided by Northstar Protective Services. A $10 minimum donation is suggested. Ahavath Torah Congregation is located at 1179 Central St in Stoughton.
