In an emotional atmosphere and against the backdrop of recent battles in Gaza, the Jerusalem Municipality has recently inaugurated the renewed Nahal Brigade Forest \u2013 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\u2019s capital and one of the IDF\u2019s most respected combat units<\/p>\n
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 \u2013 planting new trees, renewing lawns, adding picnic areas, and installing modern lighting \u2013 making it more accessible for the public and bereaved families<\/p>\n
Since October 7, Nahal Brigade fighters have fought with determination in Gaza, suffering heavy losses \u2013 68 killed and 1,792 wounded. At the ceremony, Mayor Moshe Lion said: \u201cWe 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<\/p>\n
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\u2019s wounded and soldiers \u2013 both in the battlefield and in civilian life \u2013 as part of its commitment to heritage and Israeli-Jerusalem identity<\/p>\n