A Jewish family in Boston will see their fourth and youngest daughter serve as a lone soldier in the IDF alongside her three older sisters – the first time a family from the US has four daughters serving simultaneously, according to public records.
The youngest daughter will join her three sisters, who are 24, 23 and 20 years old and serve in prestigious positions in the IDF. The eldest daughter is an active reservist in an elite Navy unit. The second daughter completed a pilot’s course and currently serves as a pilot in the 120th Squadron at Nevatim Air Force Base. The third daughter serves in the IDF Orchestra.
“There is no doubt that my sisters had an influence on my decision, but it is also probably part of the DNA our parents instilled in us,” the youngest daughter said regarding her new enlistment. “The connection between my family and Israel was strong and significant to our way of life. I know that the service will be challenging, but I am looking forward to it.”
The girls’ mother, who is an employee of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), said: “Being the parent of a lone soldier, not to mention four, is not easy. But it’s nothing compared to what it’s like for the young woman or man who is living away from their family and all that is familiar. I’m so proud that our girls acted on their beliefs.”
FIDF CEO Steven Weil said: “The brave sisters of this family have made the noble decision to leave their home in the US in order to protect Israel and the Jewish people by serving in very challenging roles. It is inspiring for us to witness their tremendous contributions, and we are very appreciative of the enormous sacrifice they have made and continue to make, along with all the young men and women who have chosen this path.”
FIDF and Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers Program director Noya Govrin said: “These women are without a doubt the true embodiment of love for our homeland, and they are a source of inspiration and Zionism in its purest form. We are pleased that the number of young people from North America and around the world who want to make aliyah and volunteer for the IDF as lone soldiers is growing. We are working hard to ensure that they are provided with the holistic support they need, as well as the feeling of home during their dedicated service.”