Private A. (19), a young man on the autistic spectrum, enlisted through the IDF's "Progress" program, which integrates soldiers on the autistic spectrum into full military service. He enlisted in August, and shortly after the war began, he was assigned to a secret base of the Duvdevan unit as a weapons NCO, and as part of his duties he takes part in the war effort.
"Everyone matters." Private A., Photo: None
As a weapons NCO, he is responsible for all of the unit's weapons and arms the fighters before embarking on operational activities. "I'm glad I can contribute to the fighting," A. says with satisfaction. "I joined the IDF through a program for recruiting young people with autism, in which you do basic training and then serve in a variety of positions. From intelligence and ICT to combat supporters like me."
A., who was in the sixth cycle of the program, says that when he enlisted in the IDF he never imagined that he would participate in the war. "At first I felt a bit of pressure and uncertainty. I didn't know if they would jump me or when. I try to maintain a routine and a good mood. Sometimes it's hard, especially when there's a lot of pressure and uncertainty. I try, and I have ways to calm myself down if something like this happens."
Some of the equipment seized in the Duvdevan fighters' activity, photo: IDF Spokesperson
The things that help him relax, he says, are reading books, taking short walks and listening to music on the phone, and he is proud of his role and contribution to the war effort. "Before I enlisted, I was a little apprehensive, I wasn't sure what roles could suit me. Eventually, I realized that everyone is important – from the fighter in the field to all the combat supporters. It's important to me that they know that every role is important and everyone helps in what they can, in their own way."
The "Progress" program is a relatively new program in the IDF, considered groundbreaking because it enables people on the autistic spectrum to enlist fully and equally like any other citizen of Israel, and gives a sense of participation and value. The program allows flexibility and provides necessary services, in order to ensure as much as possible the success of young people with autism in military service.
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