Second “FIDF LIVE” features Shir Peled, whose IDF service inspired the only female role on Netflix’s “Fauda”

The second episode of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) philanthropic initiative, “FIDF LIVE,” focused on International Women’s Day and highlighted the history of women in the IDF.

Joining the episode was Staff Sgt. (Ret.) Shir Peled, 37, the first woman to serve as an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) combat soldier in an Israeli counterterrorism unit. The role of Nurit, played by actress Rona-Lee Shimon in the Netflix hit, “Fauda,” was inspired by Peled’s IDF service.

In addition, the episode showcased a virtual base visit of the Combat Intelligence Corps featuring Lone Soldier Sgt. Oran, originally from San Francisco. Also taking part in the episode were Lone Soldiers Pvt. Alexa from Los Angeles, who serves in the Kedem Battalion of the IDF Home Front Command’s Search and Rescue Brigade, adopted by FIDF’s Baltimore Chapter as part of FIDF’s Adopt a Battalion; and Cpl. Kylie from New Jersey, who serves in the Tavor Battalion of the IDF Home Front Command’s Search and Rescue Brigade, adopted by FIDF’s Westchester and Connecticut Chapter.

Joel Chasnoff interviewing Shir Peled

The FIDF LIVE platform, hosted by American stand-up comedian and author Joel Chasnoff, is a high-level production broadcast experience that provides an alternative to in-person experiences and brings awareness of FIDF’s cause and activities to a broader audience. FIDF LIVE airs on FIDF’s website every other week at 8:30 p.m. (EST).

To watch episode 2 of “FIDF LIVE,” go to https://www.fidf.org/fidflive/episode-2.

One of the main objectives in introducing content through this platform is keeping the community’s connection with Israel alive and thriving. FIDF has always been a bridge between Americans and Israelis, so this virtual experience continues that tradition in a novel way, serving as the place for everyone who loves Israel and wants to stay connected and in the know.

As long as its supporters are unable to physically gather at FIDF’s events and galas, travel to Israel on FIDF’s missions, visit soldiers on IDF bases or meet them in the United States, FIDF will provide exclusive virtual access to content that cannot be found anywhere else.

On March 4, FIDF Florida held a regional donor appreciation event. The event focused on how FIDF is changing the lives of Israeli soldiers. Maj. Gen. Nadav Padan, former Head of IDF Cyber Defense Directorate and Commander of Central Command, spoke at the event. Also featured were IDF soldiers Aviram Fima, IMPACT! recipient and winner of the Berlin Fashion Competition; Lone Soldier from Miami, Lt. Ariel; and Capt. (Res.) Adir from the Ram Battalion.

The event’s co-chairs were Greater Miami Chapter President Evelyn Katz; Palm Beach Chapter supporter Elaine Harris; and Vice President of the South Palm Beach/Broward Chapter David Baum.

FIDF was established in 1981 by a group of Holocaust survivors as a 501(c)(3) notfor-profit organization with the mission of offering educational, cultural, recreational and social programs and facilities that provide hope, purpose and life-changing support for the soldiers who protect Israel and Jews worldwide. Today, FIDF has 24 chapters throughout the United States. FIDF proudly supports IDF soldiers, families of fallen soldiers and wounded veterans through a variety of innovative programs that reinforce the vital bond between the communities in the United States, the soldiers of the IDF and the state of Israel. For more information, please visit www.fidf.org.