Double dream-come-true
Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit
Cousins from India make aliyah, join IDF
Yuma and Daphna Moses, cousins and best friends, left their academic studies in Mumbai to join combat IDF unit. 'I fell in love with the country and army during Taglit trip,' says Yuma
From university to uniform – Yuma and Daphna Moses could have stayed in Mumbai, India and continued their academic studies toward a degree in accounting and business administration, respectively, but the two cousins decided to make aliyah and join the IDF instead.
The cousins' dream came true on Thursday, after they both completed a Hebrew course at Michve Alon Base in northern Israel, along with dozens of other "newcomers" from Scotland, Peru, France, The United States, Russia and South Africa. Next, they will begin their basic army training.
Unit Pride
Israel Moskovitz
While many Jewish youngsters evade military service, 20-year-old Shirin Shlian of Galilee encourages high school students to join combat units. 'It's part of the good education I received at home,' she explains
Since making aliyah, Yuma's dream has been to join the Caracal Battalion as an infantry combat soldier.
Yuma (R) and Daphna in uniform (Photo: IDF)
Now, with good Hebrew and lots of motivation, Yuma wants to make the most out of her service: "I might try to join the training for Oketz Unit (the canine special forces unit) because of my love for dogs, but in any case I'll do the most combat-oriented service I can.
"I learned about Caracal Battalion during a visit to Israel as part of Taglit project, which is when I fell in love with the country and the army," she explained.
Yuma and Daphna immigrated to Israel with their older brothers, leaving behind concerned parents. "I sent my mom pictures of me in IDF uniform, and she got very excited," said Yuma, who added that "despite the long distance, she trusts me and wants me to succeed. She's not afraid."
