Commanders for Life – A Processing Journey for Combat Officers

Commanders for Life – A Processing Journey for Combat OfficersWe have been living in a reality of war for over two years. At the front lines of this battle stand the commanders—young officers fighting on all fronts, enduring the loss of friends, mentors, and subordinates. We are those officers. We recently completed our active duty, serving as platoon and company commanders. We maneuvered in every sector; we fought and we led. Unfortunately, we carry the weight of that responsibility with us every single day. The experiences we’ve endured have left marks on our bodies and souls, affecting us and everyone around us. In this journey, we are addressing a group that often "falls between the cracks"—young officers (Platoon Commanders and Executive Officers). Guided by professionals, we will facilitate emotional, personal, and group processing within a circle of peers. It’s a space where we can finally let go of the "Commander Persona." Through the guidance of experienced divers, we will confront stress, learn to navigate it, and use the power of breathwork to return to a full routine—ready to serve the people of Israel in the next reserve cycle. We have already recruited our first group: 15 brave commanders who served in both regular and reserve duty, in every maneuver and on every front. This journey was initiated by commanders from the field and is supported by the Shahar NGO . It is the first of its kind, serving as a pilot program. This is where you come in. With your help, we can launch this journey and give back to those who have given everything to protect us—from October 7th until today, and into their future reserve service. Every contribution, of any amount, helps us return to a life of wholeness. Together, we will succeed.