At the end of their training period in the Nachal recon unit they had a ‘masa mesakem’ or final trek. This 90 kilometer (50 miles) march is one of the most difficult experiences in the Israeli army and is a test of endurance as well as will power. The soldiers are gradually being prepared for this grueling experience from the beginning of their army service with the treks beginning at 4-5 kilometer baby hikes to 10, 20 40 and eventually 60 or 70 kilometer hikes, so that they are ready for the 90 kilometer trek when it comes. In addition to the gradual training of long distance walkling and running sometimes with open stretchers carrying wounded, they are also trained to carry additional gear. Each soldier, in addition to his gun and gear, carries an additional piece of equipment such as a jerry can, stretcher, grenade launcher or radio. One of the heavier items (known as a ‘pakal’) is the heavy MAG machine gun known in slang as the ‘Mag.’ The Mag is always given to a larger, solidly built soldier since it is very heavy and difficult to carry; as such it also is an honor to carry. The soldier who carries it has been training with it through his entire army service and is ready to carry it for 90 kilometers having trekked with it through all of the previous treks. But the particular solider tasked with the Mag on this march was sick, and collapsed a few kilometers into the march. Daniel, who was nearby, immediately ran to his aid when he collapsed, and his commanding officer said to him “Mendel (Daniel’s nickname in the army): Kach et haMag” (”Daniel take the Mag”).

Now Daniel, a gifted musician, was not a very big boy, and was not trained to carry this heavy load. But if your commanding officer says “Mendel Kach et haMag,” you take the Mag. So Daniel hefted the heavy machine gun on his back and proceeded to carry it for the remaining 80 kilometers. He succeeded in finishing the trek, after which he promptly collapsed and ended up in the hospital; but he finished the trek and became a legend in his unit.