IDF Launches October 7 Bravery Review and Sets Out Award Approval Process

The IDF held a conference on October 14 to launch reviews of bravery during fighting from October 7, 2023, until the start of the Gaza ground maneuver. Manpower Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Dado Bar-Kalifa and Military Court of Appeals President Maj. Gen. Orly Markman chaired it. Recommendations will pass from brigade commanders through division commanders and the relevant major general to theater committees, with a General Staff committee considering higher awards. The chief of staff will decide on its recommendations; the Medal of Valor also requires defense minister approval. Exceptional civilian cases will go to the President’s advisory committee under the existing civilian bravery medal procedure.