Mr. Aviv Kohavi, former IDF Chief of General Staff, visited Zoharim Youth Village, where he met pupils about to be inducted into the IDF for a meaningful army service.
Kohavi said: “From my experience in the army, we can accept people of all types and sorts and teach them about themselves, what they don’t know – this is their power, they have such strength, the strengths they have and where they can reach. Two years ago, I presented an excellence award to a commander of a commando unit, who until age 18 had been in jail 4 times. We have base commanders like him, pilots like him, company commanders, intelligence staff, men and women… Experience has taught us throughout history, and especially in the army, that it is only a matter of fostering in them a sense of self confidence and competence. During this short visit, I have no doubt and it is obvious – that this is what you do here.
I see the pupils standing up tall, believing in themselves and all this just from a brief visit. This is extraordinarily impressive, humanitarian activity of the first order. It is good for the people – encouraging and empowering them, it is good for their families, for Israeli society and the State of Israel. Consequently, I wish to salute you Rabbi Grossman!
Rabbi Grossman said: “It is our privilege and honor to welcome former IDF Chief of General Staff, Aviv Kohavi, active in my spheres, who has taken time from his busy schedule to visit the youth village. I see the faces of the pupils, who are so happy and excited about your visit here today. It encourages them to carry on, to dream and realize their potential.
