Colonel Itai Virov. Photo: IDF Spokesperson

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 I met Colonel Itai Virov at the crowded "Sportek" building, dressed in athletic clothing rather than the military uniform.  I sat down with him, following his participation in the Commander's Race, to speak about the new military position he was appointed to on Aug 5th of this year. "As I expected, the role is both challenging and fun. I missed serving in an operational command position of this kind." The fact that this is the biggest brigade in the IDF poses a challenge to Virov, although he says "the number of missions and the fight for our home" are equally challenging. "Being a commander of any brigade in the army, especially the Kfir Brigade is the greatest honor and achievement anyone could ask for.  I truly see the role of commander as my personal duty and mission."

Colonel Virov has commanded a number of brigades in the past, among them the Hirem Brigade, which operates on the Lebanese border. Additionally, he commanded a Paratroops reserves brigade, during combat in the Second Lebanon War. He explained the difference between his command positions, "This is a regular army brigade, which builds, develops and cultivates its forces, as well as assisting in daily operations. There is a great difference, both and in the challenges and intense nature of the roles; especially in the leadership and educational fields. I feel that I have returned home," he says. "This epitomizes the type of service for which I enlisted. We carry out our most important missions throughout long, sleepless nights and the results our worth the price."

Colonel Itai Virov began his new command position following his participation in the Second Lebanon War as a commander of combat forces. "I come to this position extremely motivated. I acquired a lot from the latest war, things that pertain both to my position and to command responsibilities. I learned a lot of lessons, both personal and professional."

"Today's sports day is a break from our routine operations in the streets and alleyways of the territories."

This sport's day marks the first brigade culture event which the new commander has taken part in . The soldiers and commanders spent the day enjoying some friendly competition, and a much needed break from the routine.  Teams from the entire brigade join in the different competitions, amongst them: soccer, basketball, volleyball and rope competitions.  The winning teams are awarded a trophy as well as their fellow soldiers' respect. "While this day is both fun and important, we must keep in mind that physical fitness and athleticism isn't developed in one day, but through a strict training regimen," says Colonel Virov. "A combat soldier's physical fitness level must be a daily concern. This is a significant part of our high standards of professionalism."

The commander added, on a more personal note: "My own physical routine includes long distance runs, four times a week and running a marathon twice a year. I think running not only contributes to the troop's physical fitness but also to their mental health and capabilities in conducting successful operations."

"Today's sports day is a break from our routine operations in the streets and alleyways of the territories," said the new brigade commander.  "While observing the various competitions I can't help but think of the soldiers who are straining themselves physically and mentally in all operational sectors in Judea and Samaria. Our home and our missions are there. I am filled with the hope that in the future we will be able to stage more events like this which will include a greater part of the brigade."

"The soldiers arrived here after a long sleepless night arresting terrorist suspects.  It's comforting to know that there are people concerned that we get some time off. We greatly appreciate what they have done for us," concluded Shaul Halfon, a combat soldier in the Levi Battalion. "You can tell they put a lot of effort into it."