We were thrilled to see Josh and Noam, two lone soldiers who live in our Arnona-Jerusalem home, both be selected as the “Outstanding Soldier” of their respective Battalion’s for the entire training period for the Golani Brigade. Golani has 4 Battalions – each one selected one “Outstanding Soldier” for the entirety of Basic and Advanced Training.

Josh, pictured on the left, was born and raised in Idaho. He served as a Smoke Jumper for the US Forest Service for 4 years before deciding to come to Israel and serve in the IDF at the age of 22. Josh is pictured with his Father, who flew from Boise to Jerusalem to congratulate him. Noam, picture on the right, is an Israel-born lone soldier from a difficult background. He is serving in Sayeret Golani (Golani’s special forces attachment).
He hopes, and is now being encouraged by his officers, to attend Officer’s Training School. Noam is pictured with Tziki, who has been supporting and mentoring Noam for 2 years.