IDF to start awarding medals for sacrifice, heroism to soldiers who fought in October 7 battles

The IDF announced it will begin awarding medals to soldiers who fought in the battles following the October 7, 2023 massacre. A commanders' meeting to launch the review and award process will be held on Wednesday, October 14, chaired by Maj.-Gen. Dado Bar Kalifa and Maj.-Gen. Orli Markman, involving commanders from all brigades and sectors. The goal is to recognize extraordinary acts of heroism and preserve the legacy of combat heroism for future generations. The process also covers forwarding civilian acts of heroism to the Advisory Committee to the President for consideration for the Presidential Medal for Civilian Heroism, established by President Isaac Herzog after October 7. Notable recipients include paramedics and EMTs from MDA and United Hatzalah who treated the wounded under fire. The medal has been issued posthumously, including to Liron Barda, 26, who was murdered at the Nova Music Festival after choosing to stay and treat the wounded.