The new leadership of the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization (ZDVO) has begun its work. The National Conference of the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization unanimously chose Adv. Edan Kleiman as the Chairman of the organization.

The 45-year-old Kleiman, a former Givati Brigade combat soldier, was wounded during a military operation in Khan Yunis when a bullet penetrated his chest, leaving him wheelchair-bound.

Since 2004, incoming Chairman Kleiman has served in various positions in the organization: as Director of the Legal Division, and Deputy Chairman of the Tel Aviv District. For the last five years, he has served as Chairman of the Tel Aviv-Jaffa and Central District. He will be replacing Haim Bar who held the position for the past decade.

The ZDVO’s new leadership also includes Rafi Cohen Tzemach, elected to the post of Acting Chairman of the organization. Kobi Yitzhak is the new Chairman of the Tel Aviv-Jaffa and Central District, and Itai Elimelech is Chairman of the Haifa and Northern District. Dr. Alon Dahan is Chairman of the Jerusalem District, and Dekel Nahshon is Chairman of the Coastal District. The Be’er Sheva and Southern District is now headed by Shimon Malul. Shimon Navon now serves as Chairman of both the National Committee and National Conference.

Kleiman has begun the new position with energy and enthusiasm.

“I am proud to be the chairman of ZDVO, an organization of people who gave their bodies and souls to preserve the homeland and protect its existence. This is the organization which has amongst its members the highest number of recipients of decorations for valor and distinction, people who have done so much for the country,” Kleiman, who was visibly moved, has said. “They are IDF soldiers for life. My friends and I will work together, united and determined, in the face of the many important tasks that lay ahead.”

We wish all the best to the new leadership of the Zahal Disabled Veterans Organization!