Aharon Davidi, Israeli general (b. 1927)

Aharon Davidi (1927 – February 11, 2012) was a highly distinguished Israeli general whose profound impact on the nation extended beyond the battlefield through his visionary founding of the Sar-El volunteer program for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). His legacy is marked by both exceptional military leadership and a unique contribution to Israeli civil-military relations.

Davidi's illustrious military career saw him emerge as a pivotal figure in the IDF's formative years. A pioneering paratrooper commander, he served as the second commander of the elite Unit 101, a special forces unit instrumental in shaping the IDF's commando tactics. His leadership was further demonstrated during the 1956 Suez Crisis (Operation Kadesh), where he commanded the Paratroopers Brigade, executing daring airborne operations. Later, during the Six-Day War in 1967, Davidi played a crucial role, notably leading the capture of the Golan Heights. He retired with the rank of Brigadier General, having served as the Chief Paratrooper and Infantry Officer, leaving an indelible mark on the IDF's combat doctrine and capabilities.

It was following his extensive and decorated military service that Davidi identified a critical need within the Israel Defense Forces. During the 1982 Lebanon War, he observed that many active-duty soldiers were engaged in essential logistical support tasks, diverting them from their primary combat and operational responsibilities. This insight sparked the idea for Sar-El (an acronym for "Service for Israel"), which he founded in 1983.

The Sar-El program was established as a unique humanitarian initiative, inviting volunteers primarily from the Jewish diaspora and supporters of Israel worldwide, to contribute to the nation's security in a non-combat capacity. Participants dedicate a period, typically several weeks, to assist the IDF with vital logistical duties on military bases. This includes tasks such as sorting medical supplies, maintaining equipment, packing food rations, and performing various administrative and support roles. This invaluable assistance directly frees up active soldiers, allowing them to focus on front-line duties and core military training, thereby significantly enhancing the overall efficiency and readiness of the Israel Defense Forces.

Aharon Davidi's vision for Sar-El transcended mere logistical support; it aimed to forge stronger connections between global communities and Israel. The program offers a direct, meaningful way for individuals to demonstrate solidarity and contribute to the nation's resilience. Since its inception, Sar-El has welcomed tens of thousands of volunteers from over 60 countries, becoming a cornerstone of Israel's unique civic-military engagement and a testament to Davidi's enduring legacy of service and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aharon Davidi and Sar-El

Who was Aharon Davidi?
Aharon Davidi (1927 – February 11, 2012) was a highly decorated Israeli general, a pioneering paratrooper commander, and the visionary founder of the Sar-El volunteer program for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
What is the Sar-El volunteer program?
Sar-El, meaning "Service for Israel," is a non-profit volunteer program established by Aharon Davidi in 1983. It invites individuals from around the world to volunteer on Israel Defense Forces (IDF) bases, performing non-combat logistical and support tasks to allow active soldiers to focus on their primary duties.
When and why was Sar-El founded?
Sar-El was founded in 1983 by Aharon Davidi during the aftermath of the 1982 Lebanon War. Davidi recognized that many combat soldiers were being diverted to logistical roles, leading him to create a program where civilian volunteers could handle these essential support tasks, thus freeing soldiers for critical missions.
What kind of work do Sar-El volunteers typically perform?
Sar-El volunteers undertake a variety of non-combat support tasks on IDF bases, which may include sorting and packing medical supplies, preparing food rations, maintaining equipment, performing light repairs, and other administrative or logistical duties. This work directly contributes to the operational readiness of the IDF.
What were some key highlights of Aharon Davidi's military career?
Beyond his role as a general, Davidi was instrumental in developing Israeli paratroopers. He commanded the elite Unit 101, led the Paratroopers Brigade during the Suez Crisis (1956), and was a key commander in the capture of the Golan Heights during the Six-Day War (1967). He retired as the Chief Paratrooper and Infantry Officer.