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IDF recruits complete traditional beret march

No one does it quite like our IDF boys do ('Masa Kumta')

These photos capture the exhausted but proud faces of our IDF soldiers during their Masa Kumta (beret march). The traditional endurance test marks their official entry into the corps.

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IDF recruits on their 'beret march' as they finish basic training
Photo: IDF

The final step for IDF ground combat Units is the grueling "Masa Kumta" or Beret March.

During this overnight trek, soldiers must march between 20-45 miles in full combat gear, carrying stretchers, depending on the demands of their specific unit.

Only after completing the march are recruits formally inducted into the IDF and awarded the coveted beret of their combat brigade.

The 'Masa Kumta' represents the culmination of months of rigorous training, testing both the physical and mental fortitude of these young men and women as they transition from recruits to decorated soldiers ready to defend the nation.

IDF berets and what each color represents
Photo: IDF
IDF soldier at the 'Masa Kumta'
Photo: IDF
22km's later and still smiling!
Photo: IDF
Nearly there :-)
Photo: IDF
Carrying the stretcher
Photo: IDF
IDF recruit is still smiling while carruing a weighted backpack AND a stretcher
Photo: IDF
Excited IDF soldier at his Masa Kumta
Photo: IDF
Poignant picture from the IDF's beret march
Photo: IDF
MASA KUMTA / IDF 'Beret March'
Photo: IDF

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