Wounded by a sniper’s bullet during Operation Protective Edge in July 2014, Captain Ran Ben-Attia has undergone many operations during his recovery. He has also been studying for his Masters in Government and Politics.

Introduced by Michael Shmuely, Chair of the Friends of Israel Disabled Veterans Young Leaders Board, this brave warrior for Israel addressed a breakfast meeting of the FIDV Young Professionals Group hosted by Michael Leichtling, Chair of FIDV.

(L-R) Elad Dror, Capt. Ran Ben-Attia, Michael Leichtling, and Michael Shmuely

He told his story: “During Operation Protective Edge … we could feel the amazing support from Jewish communities around the world,” Capt. Ben-Attia noted. This helped him to stay strong.

“Four months after my injury, I was released from the hospital… Today, I am undergoing extensive rehabilitation thanks to the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization (ZDVO) at Beit Halochem,” he continued. “It’s amazing staff and volunteers are all helping me, not just with my physical rehabilitation, but also my emotional rehabilitation.”

Capt. Ben-Attia faces life with a positive attitude, despite his grave injuries. “There is nothing that can stand in the way of a person who really wants something. The human spirit is far stronger than any physical disability,” Ben-Attia asserted. “I have learned this and now I live this.”

He concluded his remarks with a special thank you to FIDV, and all Friends of ZDVO and Beit Halochem. “Thank you for allowing me, and my friends at Beit Halochem, not only to dream but to win. I salute you. Am Yisrael Chai!”

Young Professionals group listens to Cpt. Ben-Attia tell his story of strength and recovery.