Former hostages Nimrod Cohen and Matan Angrest, both veterans of the IDF’s 7th Armored Brigade, took part today in a ceremony marking the completion of training for new Armored Corps recruits.

The soldiers concluded a ceremonial march to Yad Lashiryon in Latrun—the Armored Corps’ official memorial and museum—where they were presented with the corps’ distinctive black beret, symbolizing their entry into operational service.

During the ceremony, Cohen and Angrest joined Chief Armored Officer Brig. Gen. Ohad Maor in presenting certificates of excellence to standout soldiers who demonstrated exceptional performance throughout their training.

Brig. Gen. Maor emphasized the symbolic weight of the moment, highlighting the IDF’s core value of mutual responsibility. He expressed deep emotion at the presence of Cohen and Angrest, saying their return represented a powerful reminder that the IDF stands firmly by its soldiers.

Cohen and Angrest were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, after their tanks were overrun during the attack on southern Israel. Several members of their crews were killed, and their bodies were taken into Gaza. Both former hostages have since expressed their determination to one day return to military service.