IDF Special Forces Wing Integrates Autistic Soldier and Her Service Dog
An 18-year-old IDF soldier on the autism spectrum and her service dog, Vali, have successfully integrated into the Air Force's special forces Wing 7, highlighting expanding military inclusion.
Private A., an 18-year-old soldier, and her service dog, Vali, have become well-known figures at Wing 7, the Israeli Air Force's special forces wing. Vali is the third service dog to complete basic training at the Havat HaShomer base in the Galilee. Private A. serves in a classified role alongside Vali through "Titkademu," a unique IDF recruitment track designed to integrate young adults on the autism spectrum into military service.
Integration into Military Life
From the first day of basic training, commanders instructed the company that Vali is a working service dog with a mission, meaning she must not be touched or distracted. During parades, the dog sat or lay down politely, and at the graduation ceremony, she matched A.'s movements, sitting at attention and lying down at ease. "She participated in all marches, including a night march, and in field and camouflage activities," Private A. recounts.
"The dog helps not only me but also the other soldiers in the unit by reducing tension and improving the atmosphere," Private A. noted.
Major Hai Bernstein (46) noted that the IDF's approach to service dogs has evolved significantly, particularly following the rise in awareness after October 7. While service dogs were initially barred from dining halls during basic training, Vali seamlessly integrated into unit life at her permanent base. Several career soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel, as well as post-traumatic reservists, currently serve alongside assistance dogs.
Overcoming Bureaucratic Hurdles
The path to Wing 7 was fraught with bureaucratic challenges. When Private A. arrived at the recruitment office with her dog, mental health officers initially claimed the military did not draft soldiers with service dogs. Refusing to back down, she insisted on completing the initial screening, received a medical exemption, and successfully transitioned into the volunteer track.
Dana Wilker, who trained Vali since Private A. was 16, emphasized the long-term impact of service dogs. "Service dogs work and accompany their handlers for eight to ten years, a significant period especially during formative adolescent years," Wilker said. Vali and Private A. have successfully demonstrated to the military establishment that integrating soldiers with assistance dogs is both feasible and highly beneficial.
