First Hasmonean Brigade Company Finishes Training with Ceremony at Western Wall

In a historic and emotional ceremony, the Israel Defense Forces' first regular company of the Hasmonean Brigade completed their basic training on Wednesday morning with a powerful “Beret March” culminating at the Western Wall. The event marked the culmination of seven months of rigorous combat training and a groundbreaking moment for religious service in Israel’s military.

The 50 ultra-Orthodox soldiers, many of whom were entering military service for the first time, marched into the Old City of Jerusalem blowing shofars and singing songs calling for the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple. At Judaism’s holiest accessible site, they received their berets in a moving ceremony attended by family members and senior IDF commanders.

“This is not just another brigade it’s a statement,” said Col. A., the company commander. “They completed a full training course like all the other brigades, but with special additions we managed to include for them.”

The Hasmonean Brigade is the IDF’s first fully Haredi combat unit, structured specifically to respect and uphold the religious commitments of ultra-Orthodox soldiers. From maintaining halachic standards to wearing Shabbat clothing during prayers and meals, the brigade allows Haredi troops to serve with dignity, discipline, and deep adherence to Jewish tradition.

Despite significant political and social resistance from some sectors of the ultra-Orthodox community, the brigade was launched in January with 50 recruits and 100 reservists. It represents a transformative shift in Israeli society an opportunity for more Haredi men to contribute meaningfully to national defense while preserving their religious identity.

David Zini, the incoming Shin Bet director and one of the visionaries behind the brigade’s creation, joined the ceremony, emphasizing its broader significance. “This is a new path of unity and strength,” he said.

Named after the Hasmonean dynasty that led the Maccabean revolt against Hellenistic oppression over 2,000 years ago, the brigade reflects a modern revival of that same spirit religious, proud, and fiercely loyal to the Jewish people and the Land of Israel.

As these young men stood at the Western Wall, shofars in hand and berets on their heads, they embodied a powerful message: Torah and defense are not mutually exclusive they are intertwined.

Celebrate this proud moment in Israeli history. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter today.