Leading the Pack – The Story of the Oketz Unit

“Leading the Pack – The Story of the Oketz Unit” As the Oketz Unit marks 50 years since its founding - and roughly 100 years since the roots of modern military canine combat were first laid in the Land of Israel - Leading the Pack – The Story of the Oketz Unit is published. This documentary volume opens a window into remarkable figures and extraordinary stories, presenting for the first time the unique and fascinating history of this special unit: from the early experimental use of dogs for security missions before the establishment of the state, through the formative years of Israel’s wars, and up to “Operation Iron Swords”. From basic field-tests and improvised wartime solutions to the development of the most advanced canine operational capabilities in the world; from a unit that struggled for the right to take part in missions, to a unit whose warriors now lead elite forces in some of the IDF’s most complex and classified operations - many of which cannot yet be told. Within these pages emerge the voices of fighters and commanders - professionals whose dedication, responsibility, and striving for excellence shaped the unit across generations. They operated with an unwavering sense of mission: safeguarding the soldier, the dog, the objective, and delivering a meaningful and unique operational advantage on the battlefield. These men and women, and the canine warriors who stood beside them, continue to lead the way in every mission. They Lead The Pack. Yakir Hajaj served in Oketz for over a decade, during which he held positions as a fighter, commander and dog trainer. Today he heads the Oketz Heritage Department within the Veterans Association. He is a photographer by profession, married to Lira and father to Lael. Lia Lahavi served in Oketz, where her final role was the unit’s historical researcher. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in developmental biology. Her academic and professional work focused on the history of military canine programs in the United States and Europe. All proceeds from the book serve as a direct donation to the Oketz Foundation - the veterans’ association of the Oketz Unit - to support the Founfation's Heritage Program, dedicated to preserving, documenting, and sharing the unit’s history for future generations. At the moment, the book is available for pickup only, by arrangement with Yakir or Lia in central Israel. Yakir– 052-550-7280 Lia – 052-250-0287 🐾