Young Leaders Rally For Israel’s Defenders - FIDF Gala Highlights Heroism, Rising Needs And Life-Changing Support For IDF Soldiers

The sold-out event showcased the powerful impact of FIDF’s life-changing programs, especially in the aftermath of one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history. The event emphasized a simple but profound message: while IDF soldiers stand on Israel’s frontlines, FIDF stands behind them.

Since October 7th, IDF soldiers, reservists, and their families have endured unprecedented physical, emotional, and financial strain. The evening’s purpose was to raise awareness and support for FIDF’s mission: providing mental-health support, medical care, trauma recovery programs, financial relief for reservists, support for wounded soldiers, educational scholarships, and assistance for bereaved families.

Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan, FIDF CEO and National Director, delivered remarks emphasizing that as the war evolves, the needs of soldiers do not diminish — they intensify. He also underscored the essential role of young leadership, noting that today’s young professionals are not just supporters, but peers to the soldiers on Israel’s front lines — and the future stewards of FIDF’s mission.

One of the most moving moments of the evening came from Corporal “E,” a soldier in the FIDF-adopted Unit 414, who shared the personal story of his brother, First Sergeant Aviel Joseph. Aviel, a proud soldier in the Nahal Reconnaissance Battalion, was killed in Gaza on January 13th at just 20 years old. Corporal E recounted the shock of losing his brother while he himself was in training — and the moment he chose to continue serving in his combat role, knowing Aviel would have wanted him to keep going.

Last summer, Corporal E participated in FIDF’s Legacy program, a cornerstone initiative designed for bereaved soldiers and siblings. Through shared experiences, healing workshops, and emotional support, the program helped him find connection and begin rebuilding after unimaginable loss. “Being with others who shared the same pain helped me feel normal again,” he said.

The audience also heard from two officers who played key roles in Operation Rising Lion, described as one of the most complex and consequential IDF operations in recent history. Their remarks shed light on the precision, responsibility, and courage required in the face of nuclear-level threats — and the critical role FIDF’s support played during the most intense stages of the war. Their stories highlighted the extraordinary weight these young men and women carry, often at the same age as the young professionals in the room.

Gala Co-Chair Hunter Janoff delivered a closing call to action: “As they fight the war of our generation, the organization the IDF turns to in the U.S. to meet their soldiers’ growing humanitarian needs is us — Friends of the IDF. We are the force behind the forces. Our mission is now, and we are here for good.”

Funds raised during the evening will directly support:

• Mental health

• Medical facilities and supplies

• Wounded soldier support

• Morale and welfare

• Bereaved family support

• Lone Soldier support

• Education

With tickets generously donated by sponsors, nearly 50 former IDF soldiers and reservists attended as honored guests, deepening the evening’s sense of connection and purpose. The night concluded with a powerful feeling of unity — a reminder that supporting Israel’s soldiers is not simply an act of charity, but a commitment and responsibility proudly embraced by the next generation of Jewish leaders.

Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) is a 501(c)(3) Not-For-Profit Organization dedicated to honoring and supporting the brave men and women of the IDF who risk everything to protect the State of Israel and the Jewish people. While the mission of the IDF’s heroes is to look after Israel, defending its people, borders and freedom, FIDF’s mission is to look after them. FIDF provides life-changing support through education, financial aid, bereavement programs, mental health services and more, ensuring that every soldier, veteran and bereaved family knows they are not alone. Through global partnerships and unwavering commitment, FIDF stands as a pillar of strength for those who sacrifice so much in service to the Jewish homeland. For more information, visit: https://www.fidf.org/