"We are not war machines — and we carry the war on our backs": 70 years of the Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit
The Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit marks 70 years since its founding, as it has been in a continuous combat sequence since October 7. Commanders and fighters recount difficult battles in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Jenin, describing rescues under fire, injuries, personal bereavement, and the constant shift between sectors. The prolonged fighting tests the unit's spirit, but commanders emphasize that the fighters continue to push forward.
The Paratroopers Reconnaissance Unit marks 70 years since its founding, as it has been in a continuous combat sequence since October 7. The unit commander, Lt. Col. N., describes movement from Gaza to the West Bank, Jenin, Lebanon, and Syria, including operations in hostage rescue missions and strikes in most areas of Gaza. The deputy commander, Maj. A., recounts the battle in Bint Jbeil where 15 terrorists were killed. Maj. M. tells of his brother who was killed while he heard gunfire and continued fighting. Maj. Y. recounts his injury from shrapnel in Sderot and the rescue in which Noam Tibon took part. The commanders emphasize that the unit's DNA is initiative and closing in on the enemy, and that the young fighters understand the meaning of the fighting. Lt. Col. N. concludes: "We all carry this war on our backs."