Volunteers are also thanked sincerely for their role in relieving reservists of extra work. The crucial role of the reserve for a tiny country like Israel, in whose army nearly all adult men must participate, is impressed upon the volunteers in no way better than by their very presence.

But the program has its darker side. General Davidi freely acknowledges that these volunteers are badly needed by Israel, not only for immediate practical relief but also as a "bridge" to the future: "The links between Israelis and the Jews of the Diaspora should be strengthened; Israel should serve as a safe haven for all Jews, just in case."

Davidi also looks upon the program as one small step in the overall process of strengthening U.S.-Jewish ties, and even as a means of providing a "safety-valve" if serious anti-semitism ever flares up in the U.S. "Even though things seem perfect in the U.S. for Jewish life, one can never tell. We have a long history and a long memory."

The program may also influence emigration decisions. Of the approximately 1850 French and Americans who have completed the program since 1982, about 100 are now in the process of emigrating to Israel. Furthermore, before leaving the U.S., American citizens are required by law to sign a statement declaring "as a Volunteer for Israel I have no intention of serving in joining, or swearing allegiance to the Israel Defense Forces." But the increasingly military nature of the month's work would raise a legal and perhaps moral question in the minds of prospective American participants: just how far may an American citizen go toward aiding the military effort of another country, even Israel? Davidi asserts that "none of the volunteers are encouraged to join the Defense Forces," not only for reasons of nationality but also often because of age or suitability, but the question of how much participation is actually full participation remains open to question.

Another questionable area lies in the issue of indoctrination. Full military discipline is not exercised over the volunteers, but the program makes no bones about impressing upon each individual the "patriotic" good deed he or she is doing for Israel. Further, Davidi says that "our program, while recognizing the plurality of Jewish life, is aimed at achieving, or at least expressing, Jewish unity. We try to give them a Jewish experience."

The membership of the organization's directing board attests to this "pan-Israeli" effort; it includes Knesset members from four different political parties in addition to General Davidi himself. The commitment continues after the program ends; each individual is encouraged to send 10 postcards to potential participants upon returning to the U.S.

All in all, though, these cautions seem not to apply to the vast majority of those who have participated. About 90 percent of the participants have said they were satisfied, and most participants are well-informed about Israeli life even before arriving. The slice of seems to be both realistic and reassuring to them. The personal and emotional benefits for the volunteers seem to far outstrip the costs. If you're an American who wants to help Israel, and you don't mind getting a little dirty, this just might be the best way yet to "pitch in."