Background

In Israel, all citizens are required to participate in military conscription after graduating high school. Citizens have the opportunity, however, to delay their conscription for a year and spend it abroad to teach and learn in Jewish communities around the nation.

Execution

16 Israeli Emissaries located throughout Connecticut and southern Massachusetts visited the University of Connecticut on 25 January, 2019 to learn about Cadet life and teach Cadets about their experience with the Israeli Military.

Over 20 Cadets and three Cadre from the Nathan Hale Battalion came to the Israeli Emissary discussion. At the start of the event, the Emissaries gave a presentation on military service in Israel and the typical career paths that Israelis take. Unlike Americans, all Israelis are required to partake in military service following high school graduation. After their service (two years for females, three years for males) they typically take a year off to travel the world, going to places like Thailand, India, or Europe before going to university.

After the presentation ended, the Cadets and Emissaries broke into smaller groups to discuss on a personal level. Cadets told the Emissary about the daily training routine of an ROTC Cadet, and the challenges of being a student and a Cadet at the same time, as well as various broadening opportunities and Cadet Summer Training. Likewise, the Emissaries informed the Cadets about their typical training, day-to-day life, and other various opportunities that the Israel Defense Force (IDF) provides.

Conclusion

Nathan Hale Battalion Cadets developed a better understanding of Israeli conscription and the typical enlistment and commissioning path of Israeli Soldiers while the Emissaries were able to learn about Cadet life. Furthermore, the Nathan Hale Battalion Cadets conveyed a positive image of the Battalion on campus and with the visiting Emissaries.