In an emotional atmosphere and against the backdrop of recent battles in Gaza, the Jerusalem Municipality has recently inaugurated the renewed Nahal Brigade Forest – a memorial site established following the 1997 helicopter disaster that has since become a focal point for remembrance, education, and heritage. In the presence of Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, brigade commanders, and soldiers, the site was re-dedicated as a symbol of the deep partnership between Israel’s capital and one of the IDF’s most respected combat units
Jerusalem Connecting Past and Present
Located on Haim Kolitz Street, opposite the Yehuda Hotel, the forest was first established in 1998 as a national monument for the Nahal Brigade and the 73 soldiers who perished in the helicopter disaster en route to operations in Lebanon. This year, initiated by the Jerusalem Municipality in cooperation with KKL and the Nahal Brigade Association, the site underwent a major upgrade – planting new trees, renewing lawns, adding picnic areas, and installing modern lighting – making it more accessible for the public and bereaved families
Tribute to Today’s Soldiers
Since October 7, Nahal Brigade fighters have fought with determination in Gaza, suffering heavy losses – 68 killed and 1,792 wounded. At the ceremony, Mayor Moshe Lion said: “We salute the fallen, the bereaved families, and the wounded. Jerusalem stands with you and thanks you from the bottom of our hearts for your courage and commitment
A Place for Jerusalem’s Memory and Heritage
The Nahal Brigade Forest will now also serve as a gathering place for educational activities, combat tradition events, and cultural programs. The Nahal Brigade Association, which began with commemoration efforts, now also supports the brigade’s wounded and soldiers – both in the battlefield and in civilian life – as part of its commitment to heritage and Israeli-Jerusalem identity
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The Helicopter Disaster – A Defining Moment for the Nahal Brigade
On February 4, 1997, one of the worst tragedies in IDF history occurred: two Yasur helicopters collided over She’ar Yashuv in northern Israel, killing all 73 soldiers and crew on board. Many of the victims were Nahal Brigade fighters, set to enter Lebanon for operational duties. The disaster left a deep mark on the brigade and Israeli society, leading to the creation of the memorial forest in Jerusalem as a lasting site of remembrance, education, and heritage for future generations
