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
2026年3月1日 · Family Support,Aron's StoryWe knocked on the door of a random apartment in Modiin. My son Elliot was with me. He was ten. We...2026年2月26日 · Aron's StoryI got promoted recently. Rasap of my unit. Logistics Officer. The title sounds administrative...2026年2月24日 · Aron's StoryThe news broke. US and Iran were escalating. Satellites picked up movement. Analysts were talking...2026年2月21日 · Soldier ProfilesThe biggest thing I learned in three months of service is something most Israelis already know...2026年2月18日 · Aron's StoryOur base sat 50 meters from the Gaza border, right by the entrance to the Nitzarim Corridor....2026年1月14日 · ReintegrationThe transfer was scheduled for today. Josh Boone was hours away from getting the mental health...2025年12月26日Shlav Bet started as an answer to a problem Israel didn't anticipate. When waves of Ukrainians...2025年12月26日 · Aron's StoryThe Rasap of Unit 7108 started calling me Uncle Aron sometime during my third visit. I'd show up...2025年2月28日2024年10月7日Join 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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