Shayetet 13 (Hebrew: שייטת 13, lit. Flotilla 13) is the naval special forces unit of the Israeli Navy, one of the premier special operations units of the Israel Defense Forces. Each year, out of 20,000 candidates only 70 are selected to become a part of the elite Israeli Navy Seal unit. Members of the unit share a common patriotic desire to serve the State of Israel and protect the Zionist dream.
The Shayetet 13 specializes in sea-to-land incursions, counter-terrorism, sabotage, maritime intelligence gathering, maritime hostage rescue and the boarding of hostile vessels. The true nature of its missions and the identity of its personnel often remain classified. The unit’s insignia is inspired by the bat (the “Atalef”) and the motto that: “like a bat out of darkness, like a grenade exploding in thunder”, the element of surprise is a strategic advantage. In exercising their mission and in dealing with enemy combatants, the unit always ensures that it does so in a manner consistent with our Jewish values.
At the end of their term of service, Shayetet 13 warriors must transition back into civilian life. Their potential to contribute to Israeli society on a social, political and economic level is enormous. These special individuals took on great responsibility during their term of service, they exhibited strong leadership skills and demonstrated an ability to withstand great physical and mental stress. Their bravery and heroism is amplified by their humble nature and overall willingness to make great sacrifices for the good of their country, without any expectation or demand for public recognition.
While the opportunity for communal engagement is enormous, so too are the challenges for reintegration. The Atalef Foundation is the bridge that helps transition Shayetet 13 warriors from a focus on active military service to a focus on personal empowerment and engagement with Jewish communal life and Zionist endeavors in Israel and around the world.
The Success of our programs and efforts are self-evident. The Atalef has been approached by many of its sister organizations at other elite units in Israel to share best practices. Which we happily do.