LA Girl Realizes Decade-Long Dream of Joining IDF Combat Unit

For 10 years, Alisa Sheldon couldn’t shake her dream of moving to Israel and serving in the IDF as a combat soldier. Two months ago, she realized that dream, joining the ranks of the Lions of the Jordan Valley Battalion.

Last week, the 25-year-old Sheldon stood at attention with her male and female comrades, swearing their allegiance to the IDF and the State of Israel.

The Lions of the Jordan Valley Battalion, a relatively new co-ed infantry outfit, was established in 2015. Its mission is to carry out routine security operations in the Jordan Valley region and defend Israel’s eastern border.

“When I was 15, I visited Israel for the first time, studying abroad for a semester through my school in Los Angeles,” she told Israel daily Israel Hayom. “The semester lasted four months and I stayed another three months; and I understood that Israel is home.

“Basic training isn’t easy for me. I’m with girls who are six or more years younger than me. But what’s most important is being a combat soldier and contributing to the state.”

By: Israel Hayom

Send Passover Packages to Needy Israeli Soldiers - Bring Them Joy!

We are honored to thank the young men and women of the IDF who risk their lives every day to protect the citizens of Israel. Since October 7th, soldiers have been on the battlefield for months - many are hoping to come home for Passover.

Join us in sending Passover food packages (and personal notes) to Israeli soldiers and their families.

Many soldiers spend the Passover holiday with needy families back home. The soldiers greatly appreciate your love and concern. Bring them Passover joy!

CLICK HERE TO SEND YOUR PACKAGE AND NOTE TO ISRAELI SOLDIERS!