The brigade was founded in 1966. It has been known as 247th and 55th brigade before it was designated as 623rd. The reservists of the brigade have been called upon to fight in many of Israel's wars, including: the Six Day War (1967), the Yom Kippur War (1973), and Operation Peace for Galilee (1982). Famous brigade commanders have included Motta Gur and Danny Matt. In the Six Day War under the command of Motta Gur the brigade led the battle for the liberation of Jerusalem.