Reservists: IDF saved up on soldiers after drill
Reserve soldiers recruited for Golan drill say they were sent home at night, without arranging for transportation, to save up on paying for additional reserve day; IDF to look into discharge process
Dozens of IDF reservists who were called in to a surprise drill in the Golan felt the army had treated them with ingratitude after they had left their homes, families and work for the sake of national security.
The soldiers were called in on Saturday night, and took part in a divisional exercise which ended Wednesday night. At approximately 8:30 pm, the soldiers were dismissed, but were apparently sent home without proper transportation, Yedioth Ahronoth learned Thursday.
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"It is an unparalleled scandal," said one of the reservists, a public servant. "I live in Gush Etzion. How do they expect me to get home at this time? Apart from the late dismissal hour, we are angry that the army wants to perform emergency drills without providing proper conditions and recognition. People were called up by surprise, their lives were interrupted and they are being dismissed at night without giving them a day of rest afterwards. It is an exploitation of those who are willing to always give back to their country."
According to another reservist: "We are willing to give and sacrifice for our country, but want to know that the purposes are critical and be properly compensated." His friend added: "Instead of telling us about the deputy chief of staff's gratitude in the exercise wrap-up, they should have cared for transportation and recovery time."
Guy, 37, added: "Everyone is talking about the drill, but not about us. They knew how to call us up very well, but when rights needed to be taken care of, the soldiers on the field are once again forgotten and they only worry about headlines for the generals. We're sick of it."
Tomer, a unit commander noted that "the guys ran, stormed in the field, fired arms and did not rest throughout the entire drill. Suddenly at the end of the drill they are being told that instead of staying another night in order to sleep well and be sent home properly, the guys are left to hitchhike in the middle of nowhere. It's a disgrace."
If the military had kept the soldiers at the base overnight, it would be required to pay them for an
extra reserve day.
The IDF Spokesperson's Unit stated: "The issue will be investigated to see if any errors were made in the soldiers' discharging process. The IDF cherishes and appreciates the reserve soldiers."
Military officials added that 'commanders were informed that soldiers who would have difficulties reaching their destination on time will be given an extra reserve day."
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