[VIDEO AND PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE]

For the first time in history of the IDF, a chareidi paratrooper company swearing-in ceremony took place last Thursday at the Kosel. After Kfir and Givati Brigades, Paratroopers will also incorporate a chareidi company.

Only one month ago, the new chareidi paratrooper recruits arrived to induction center (Bakum). Paratroopers commander Colonel Nimrod Aloni have said: “I am proud to welcome first chareidi company becoming part of our brigade. I don’t have a slightest doubt that a new company will be professional, strong in both physically and spiritually. From now on you will become paratroopers. I wish you great success, you are true pioneers”.

In the shadow of the attacks of extremists against the chareidi soldiers, Zaka Chairman Yehuda Meshi Zahav have published a picture of his recently enlisted son in paratroopers uniforms and wrote: “My soldier son, I’m proud of you”.

Rabbis of the Nachal Chareidi Foundation, who will provide a spiritual support to new paratroopers by conducting Gemara lessons and providing personal backing for each soldier, have stated: “Today we have witnessed a historical moment. New chareidi company in the IDF will continue the process of integration, started by Netzach Yehuda (Nachal Chareidi) Battalion. The one can be a professional soldier and in the same time a practicing chareidi Jew”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / Photo Credit: Hillel Meir)