ADI is proud to announce that on Thursday, May 12, Major General (res.) Doron Almog, the Chairman of ADI Negev – Nahalat Eran, received the 2016 Israel Prize for lifetime achievement and contributions to society and the state.

Major General Almog accepted his award in the presence of the Prime Minister, President, Knesset Chairperson, and Supreme Court president at the closing event of Israel’s Independence Day activities.

A decorated soldier, Almog gained renown for his role as the first Israeli paratrooper reconnaissance commander to land at the daring rescue mission in Entebbe in 1976, and later for his participation in Operation Moses, which brought thousands of Ethiopian Jews to Israel in the 1980s. As the head of the IDF’s Southern Command from 2000-2003, he protected Israel’s southern border from infiltration by terrorists from Gaza. After retiring from the IDF, Almog joined forces with ADI and dedicated his life to helping individuals with special needs live to their fullest potentials. A true hero in every sense of the word.

Motivated by his son, Eran, who was born with severe autism and developmental delays, Almog helped establish ADI Negev – Nahalat Eran, the Negev-based rehabilitative village of ADI. Memories of Eran, who lost his battle with Castleman’s disease in 2007 at the age of 23, fuels Almog to continue his commitment to securing the best possible care for Israel’s disabled community.

“This prize belongs to my son, Eran, who was born with severe limitations. He never spoke and never called me ‘dad.’ Yet, he was the greatest teacher of my life,” said Almog. “Eran is the one who taught me to have compassion for the weakest members of our society. It is for them that I work and will continue to act throughout my life.”

Read full text (translated) of Doron’s acceptance speech during awarding of Israel Prize

The Israel Prize committee echoed Almog’s comments, noting that the Major General led a revolution in caring for Israel’s special needs population that brought about a crucial change in societal perception of individuals with disabilities.

DORON, WE SALUTE YOU!