Today marks Reservists' Appreciation Day, on which the IDF thanks those who continue to contribute to Israel's security
Date: 09/08/2012, 11:55 AM
Author: IDF Website
Today (Thursday, August 9) marks IDF Reservists' Appreciation Day, a day of gratitude for those who continue to contribute to Israel's security. The IDF salutes its reserve forces for their sacrifice and spirit of volunteerism, perpetually serving and protecting Israel's citizens.
The Reserve Formation is a basic and essential factor in determining the strength of the IDF, during both times of peace and wartime – in the air, on land, and at sea.
Recently released statistics show an increase in the number of women serving in the reserves; 14 percent of reservists today are women, as compared to eight percent in 2008. Ninety-one percent of reservists hold high school diplomas, and 72 percent have pursued post-secondary education.
It is estimated that in case of national emergency, the rate of reporting for duty will reach 110 percent – meaning that because many reservists will voluntarily report for duty, the number of soldiers actively serving in the reserves will actually exceed the number called up.