At 44, I Left My Career to Join the IDF
A father. A new immigrant. A soldier.
On October 8th, 2023, I was supposed to start a new marketing job. Instead, I started a journey that would change everything I understood about service, sacrifice, and what it means to stand with those who protect Israel.
Watch as Aron discusses his activism and inspiration to join the IDF at age 44.
75+
Days of Active Service
44
Age at Enlistment
$1.2M+
Distributed Since Oct 7
55,000+
People Supported
"When a father serves in the IDF, his entire family serves alongside him."
The Blog
Insights, Stories, and Community Support
16 de março de 2026 · Aron's StoryI started a new job last week. Monday morning. New desk, new team, new ID badge that still smells...5 de março de 2026 · Soldier ProfilesThis was shared with us by someone we have supported who asked to remain anonymous for security...26 de fevereiro de 2026 · Aron's StoryI got promoted recently. Rasap of my unit. Logistics Officer. The title sounds administrative...24 de fevereiro de 2026 · Aron's StoryThe news broke. US and Iran were escalating. Satellites picked up movement. Analysts were talking...21 de fevereiro de 2026 · Soldier ProfilesThe biggest thing I learned in three months of service is something most Israelis already know...18 de fevereiro de 2026 · Aron's StoryOur base sat 50 meters from the Gaza border, right by the entrance to the Nitzarim Corridor....14 de janeiro de 2026 · ReintegrationThe transfer was scheduled for today. Josh Boone was hours away from getting the mental health...26 de dezembro de 2025Shlav Bet started as an answer to a problem Israel didn't anticipate. When waves of Ukrainians...26 de dezembro de 2025 · Aron's StoryThe Rasap of Unit 7108 started calling me Uncle Aron sometime during my third visit. I'd show up...28 de fevereiro de 20257 de outubro de 2024Join Us in Supporting Our Heroes
At Smiles for Chayalim, we believe in the power of community. Our mission is to connect civilians with Israel's soldiers through heartfelt stories, meaningful support, and collective action. Together, we can make a difference.
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