Following the outbreak of the October 7th war, Israel rapidly mobilized tens of thousands of reserve soldiers who were abruptly thrust into combat with a depraved enemy. Many of them were fathers in their 30s who served in the military when they were younger, but since then have been developing their careers and leading non-military lives. They were accountants, plumbers, media professionals, and even worship leaders. With a few hours’ notice, they dusted off their old uniforms, kissed their wives and children goodbye, and headed toward Gaza, not knowing what awaited them there.