In Israel, military service is a lifelong commitment. After completing their mandatory service, men typically serve in the reserves until the age of 40, while women may be exempt after their first child. Normally, reserve duty amounts to 36 days per year. But after the devastating Hamas invasion of October 7, 2023, these limits vanished.
In 2024, 3,000 Technion students — men and women — put their studies on hold to defend their homeland. Many served multiple tours, sacrificing months of their lives. Tragically, some were badly injured, some suffered emotional distress, and some even died. In response, the Technion administration acted swiftly, implementing crucial programs to support returning reservists — efforts made possible in large part by the generosity of Americans.
Throughout the year, the American Technion Society has shared the inspiring stories of many brave students who have balanced the demands and perils of war with their education and personal lives (visit ats.org/impact/human-element). The following pages illuminate the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs of some remarkable students who put everything on the line to safeguard the people of Israel — underscoring what it means to be Israeli.
