Oketz K9 Unit
Veterans Foundation
Leading the Pack (HaHolchim BaRosh)
Leading the Pack (HaHolchim BaRosh)
By supporting the Foundation, you are standing with the heroes who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding our nation.
Established in 2005 by veterans and the families of Oketz K9 Unit soldiers, the Oketz Foundation is a dedicated organization committed to supporting both veterans and their canine partners. The foundation honors the unique role these teams play in defending our nation.
Oketz soldiers, alongside their loyal companions, engage in vital missions including counter-terrorism, explosive detection, and search and rescue.
The Foundation ensures these heroes receive the recognition and support they deserve, helping them transition smoothly into civilian life while preserving the stories of their bravery. By strengthening and connecting the Oketz community, we foster a deep sense of belonging, raise public awareness, and honor the enduring legacy of the unit’s courage and excellence.
The Oketz Foundation is driven by three core pillars:
The IDF’s elite K9 unit, Oketz, plays a crucial role in Israel’s national security, carrying out essential missions in counter-terrorism, explosives and firearm detection, and search and rescue—all with the goal of saving lives. Their bravery and commitment, along with the unique advantage they bring, make them indispensable in protecting both Israeli citizens and IDF soldiers.
Oketz teams are always at the front, using their skills to detect explosives and expose terrorist ambushes, providing critical protection and saving countless lives. They lead IDF forces into the most dangerous and challenging missions. This unwavering dedication is reflected in the name of the Oketz Foundation: 'ההולכים בראש' (Ha’Holchim Ba’Rosh)—meaning 'Leading the Pack'—a tribute to their role at the forefront of every mission.
Oketz fighters operate as an “attached force”: independent teams, usually composed of a soldier and their canine partner. They are embedded with various IDF units, lead them on the battlefield, and reassigned — often on a daily basis.
Operating alone under intense pressure, they carry significant responsibility and must make critical decisions in real time. This unique role demands exceptional independence, resilience, and adaptability, leaving a deep imprint on their personal development. Transitioning to civilian life requires tailored support, where a strong sense of community plays a vital role in sustaining their long-term resilience.
We invite you to join us on this meaningful journey. Your support is invaluable in helping us achieve our mission. By donating to the "Haholchim Barosh" (Leading Ahead) Foundation, you are directly contributing to the welfare of our veterans and their loyal canine partners. You're also strengthening the capabilities of our unit and its ongoing mission to protect and serve.
