(Jerusalem Post) Dov Lipman - This past week Israel's Knesset celebrated the contribution of Israelis with special needs who serve in the IDF. That is right - a wide range of disabilities has not stopped these proud Israelis from serving their country in uniform. There are 400 soldiers in the "Special in Uniform" program. "We see the inclusion of people with disabilities in the army as a way to help usher them into a self-sufficient life once they are discharged from the army," explains program co-founder Lt.-Col. Tiran Attia. "Our belief is that everyone belongs and has the right to reach his or her full potential. Special in Uniform focuses on the unique talents of each individual participant to help each one find a job that is a perfect fit for the individual's skills within the IDF. The attention is on the ability, not the disability, of each individual, encouraging independence and integration into society." We live in a time where our military is labeled immoral. When we hear those accusations, let us remember "Special in Uniform" and recognize that we are a truly remarkable country and people. The writer served as a member of the 19th Knesset.
2018-06-22 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive