Seven years in the IDF. Shalit
Photo: Avishag Shaar-Yashuv
Gilad Shalit officially released from IDF
After almost seven years – five of which he spent in Hamas captivity – Gilad Shalit returns to civilian life; will continue to undergo rehabilitation through Defense Ministry
Six months after being released from Hamas captivity, Gilad Shalit returns to civilian life – On Wednesday, Shalit was officially released from the IDF at a rank of sergeant-major.
Shalit was not required to report to the IDF Induction Center like other soldiers who complete their military service, and was released through a expedited administrative procedure. On Monday, an officer from the IDF Personnel Directorate visited Shalit's house and signed him on his release forms.
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Shalit was scheduled to be released before Passover, but asked military authorities to postpone the procedure until after the holiday due to technical reasons. His release is not expected be marked in an official ceremony.
Sergeant-Major Gilad Shalit (Photo: Avishag Shaar-Yashuv)
Shalit enlisted in the IDF in July 2005 and served in the Armed Corps' 188 brigade. Almost a year later, on June 25, 2006, he was abducted to Gaza Strip and held in Hamas captivity for five years and four months.
After his release from captivity, Shalit was recognized as an IDF disabled veteran and received medical and psychological treatment, including surgery to remove shrapnel from his arm.
The decision to release Shalit was made last month after his medical condition improved following the treatments. Shalit will continue to receive medical care and rehabilitation through the Ministry of Defense's Disabled Rehabilitation Division.
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