NAHAL

NAHAL
Official Medal 2008/5768
Sixth in the "IDF Fighting Units" Series

In June 1948, during the War of Independence, the provisional government led by David Ben Gurion decided to draft 17 year-olds for military training to prepare them for battle should the need arise. Thousands of youngsters led by the youth movements responded to the call. In 1949 “NAHAL”, the Hebrew acronym for “Noar Halutzi Lohem” or “Fighting Pioneer Youth”, was founded. Its initial challenges included forging roads, assisting with the absorption of thousands of new immigrants, and establishment of new agricultural settlements.

Nahal service has been based on the “gar’in”, the Hebrew word for a seed or nucleus, a group of youths who declared their intention to establish a new settlement and who remained together for military service. The period of service included military training and service, as well as agricultural training and settlement activity. This dual mission is reflected in the emblem, a scythe symbolizing pioneering and settlement, a sword representing defense, and an olive branch bringing the hope for peace. More than 100 villages, moshavim and kibbutzim began as Nahal settlements.

In 1976 a Nahal "gar'in" was sent to a development town with a new mission, community organization and education. In 1984 the Nahal received the Israel Prize for its work in settlement and education.

In 1982 Nahal became an independent brigade within the infantry to strengthen the IDF during the first Lebanese war, Operation Peace for Galilee. Today Nahal recruits include new immigrants as well as a separate unit for ultra-orthodox men.

Nahal soldiers have served in the IDF with distinction in all wars and operations for 60 years. Exemplifying its motto “The Human Advantage”, they have earned a reputation for idealism, bravery, and love of Eretz Israel.

Obverse:
On the medal face, Nahal soldiers against a background of an agricultural field and a verse from Ezekiel: “Everything…shall live where that stream comes.” (46:9)

Reverse:
On the reverse, the main Nahal monument and the brigade emblem.

Edge: smooth

Design: Igal Gabay

Engraving: USA
Minting: Gold - ICMC Mint, Silver and Bronze - USA