Golani earned its respected and legendary warrior status among Israelis through its sweat, blood, and constant exposure to the front lines of adversity.The Golani Brigade (aka. Brigade No. 1) is an infantry brigade that was formed February 28, 1948 when the Levanoni Brigade in the upper Galilee was divided in two smaller brigades. It is the most highly decorated infantry unit in the IDF.After the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, the Golani Brigade participated in a number of reprisal raids in the first part of the 1950s. In 1951 against Syria. In October 1955 in a joint operation with the Paratroopers Brigade against Egypt.In the 1956 Sinai Campaign the brigade's task was to capture the area around the city Rafah in the Sinai desert.The symbol of the brigade is a green tree with its roots on a brown background. Its soldiers are designated by brown berets.In the upper Galilee located north of Haifa at the Golani Junction stands the Golani Brigade Museum commemorating the brigade and its heroes.Golani is the most veteran IDF brigade and earned a reputation for its die-hard soldiers: who tend to be fearless, impulsive and warm. On the good side, these qualities are expressed in braveness, toughness and quick response - producing excellent warriors who can handle the hardest situation. Golani is known for its high "warrior commeradship" among the troops and enjoy good reputation among Israeli public. On the bad side, these qualities are expressed in recklessness and lack of discipline. During the late 1990's, two Golani company-size units revolted against their officers, left their posts in the field, and went home. Over 70 were jailed and both companies, one known as the "Mustangs" containing many Sayaret Golani combat veterans, were disbanded.
