Staff Sgt. Eitan Barak 20 years old

Transcription

Staff Sgt. Eitan Barak 20 years old Barak was born in Herzliyah. He was an excellent student at Tichon Hadash High School and he loved to cook and surf. He was popular and loved by everyone. After his death, his friend asked the mayor of Herzliyah to name his favorite beach after him. Barak was a combat soldier in the Nahal Brigade. Several days before his death, Eitan gave an interview to the military weekly, "Bamahane". In an article published in the "Fighter in the Headlines" section, he spoke of his recent operational activity in the West Bank and the arrests of Hamas activists following the abduction of the three teenagers, Gilad Shaar, Naftali Frenkel and Eyal Yifrach z”l. Eitan Barak was killed on Friday, July 18, 2014 in Beit Hannun, in the northern Gaza Strip only a few hours after the ground operation in the Gaza Strip began. Barak was the first soldier to lose his life in Operation Protective Edge. Barak was laid to rest in the military section of the old cemetery in his hometown, Herzliyah. He is survived by his parents, Michel and David and his two siblings, 23-‐year-‐old sister and a 32 year old half-‐brother. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Maj. (res) Amotz Greenberg 45 years old Amotz Greenberg was born in Kibbutz Yotvata and lived in Hod Hasharon with his wife Sagit and their three children. Amotz, an attorney by profession, was the head of a team of investigators in the Israel Securities Authority for many years. Greenberg served at Brigade 7 during his mandatory service and at the Armored Corps Reserve Brigade for his reserve. Following the dismantling of the Brigade, he was transferred to a regular brigade. Even after he was no longer in active service, he made sure to continue training and report for his reserve duty.
Greenberg volunteered to perform his reserve duty, as he had already aged out of mandatory service, was killed on Saturday, July 19th 2014, in a battle with terrorists who infiltrated Israeli territory through a terror tunnel near Kibbutz Kissufim located near the center of the Gaza Strip. The terrorists who had infiltrated Israel in an attempt to carry out an attack on Israeli civilians, opened fire on the Israeli unit with machine guns and an anti-‐tank missile.
Greenberg was laid to rest in the ‘Hod Hashron military cemetery’. He is survived by his wife and three children who are 7, 12, & 15 years old.
“As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Adar Barsano -‐ 20 years old
Adar Barsano was born and raised in Nahariya. While he was a student in ‘Amal’ high school, he was a volunteered as a fire fighter. Following in his father’s footsteps as his father is a firefighter. He was a good student and he loved to make people laugh.
Adar completed high school and drafted to the IDF where he served as a combat soldier in the armored corps. After almost two years he transferred to serve as the driver of the Armored Corps Division 188’s commander.
Sergeant Barsano was killed on Saturday, July 19th 2014, the 12th day of operation “Protective Edge” in a battle with terrorists who infiltrated Israeli territory through a terror tunnel near Kibbutz Kissufim located near the center of the Gaza Strip. The terrorists who had infiltrated Israel in an attempt to carry out an attack on Israeli civilians, opened fire on the Israeli unit with machine guns and an anti-‐tank missile. Barasano was laid to rest in Nahariya military cemetery. He is survived by his parents and siblings, a 17-‐year-‐old brother, and a 12-‐year-‐old sister.
2nd Lt. Bar Rahav
21 years old
Bar Rahav lived in Ramat Ishay. He attended Nahalal high school where he majored in computer science and physics. Rahav also played in Kiryat Tiv'on's water polo team, and was the captain of his team. He led the group to win a gold medal in the Israel national championship. He was then selected to play .for Israel's national team
After graduating high school with honor, Rahav was offered special privileges from the IDF because of his athletic career. However he chose not to take At the time of advantage of his position and to join a combat unit, the combat Engineering Corps. He wanted to serve his country like the rest of his peers.
his death he was an officer cadet.
Rahav was killed on July 19th, 2014 by an antitank missile fired at the vehicle he was operating. He was critically wounded and rescued from the battlefield, but died of his wounds.
Rahav was laid to rest in Kiryat Tiv'on military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Naama and Efi and his three brothers, Nir (18), Ron (14) and Rotem (11).
Staff Sgt. Bnaya Rubel 20 years old Bnaya Rubel lived in Holon. He was a student at ‘Yitzhak Navon’ High School and participated in his school’s running team. He was an excellent athlete and was an assistant coach. Bnaya considered his older brothers’ who served in combat units as his role models and after graduating from high school he joined the IDF and served as a combat soldier in the Paratroopers Brigade. Rubel was killed on July 19th, 2014 in a battle with Hamas gunmen in southern Gaza. Staff Sgt. Bnaya Rubel was laid to rest in the cemetery of Holon. He is survived by his parents, Zeev and Ada, and his three older brothers: Omer, 36, Liel, 27 and Yarin, 24. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Maj. Tsafrir Bar-‐Or 32 years old Tsafrir Bar-‐Or, was born in Akko and a year before his death he moved with his family to Holon. His Friends says that he was a very quiet and modest person. One of his friends even said "You could call him at the middle of the night and he would come with a spaceship to help". Bar-‐Or was the deputy battalion commander in the Golani Brigade. He drafted to the IDF in 2000 and completed the basic training for the elite unit ‘Orev’ with honors. He served with the Golani brigade through numerous conflicts in Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank. Bar-Or
considered the IDF and especially the Golani brigade his home.
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens are among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Bar-‐Or was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. Tzafrir Bar-‐Or was laid to rest in the Holon military cemetery. He is survived by his wife Sivan, who was eight months pregnant as well as his one-‐year-‐old daughter, Lian, his parents and his sister. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Capt. Tzvi Kaplan
28 years old Tzvi was born and raised in Haifa. He attended the ‘Yavne Yeshiva’ High School and then moved to the ‘Bnei David’ Israel Defense Forces (IDF) preparatory yeshiva in Yishuv Eli. Kaplan and his family moved to Kibbutz Merav two years ago. Kibbutz officials report that they were loved by all who knew them. Kaplan entered the IDF, joining the elite Pulsar Golani unit. He was to assume his new post as company commander of one of the company’s in the Golani Brigade, but he opted instead to respond to a call to fill the slot to become the new Operations Officer of the Brigade. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens are among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Tzvi was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. Kaplan was laid to rest in the Military cemetery in Haifa, Thousands of Israelis attended his funeral. He is survived by his wife Adi and two sons Elkana (5) and Nadav (3). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Gilad Yacoby 21 years old Gilad was raised in Kiryat Ono, and he studied mathematics, and physics at Ben Tzvi High School. Prior, to joining the IDF, he entered a special program to improve his physical condition. He then enlisted in March 2012 to the Golani brigade. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Gilad was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. Staff Sergeant Yacoby was laid to rest in Kiryat Shaul Cemetery, the Morning after his passing. He is survived by his parents, Michal and Avi, and two sisters, Rotem and Inbar. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Oz Mendelovich 21 years old
Oz Mendelovich was from Atzmon. He played the violin and was very athletic. As part of his athletic career he was a fitness trainer, a sprinter and a soccer player in Misgav Regional Concil ‘Hapoel’ team. After graduating from high school Oz joined the IDF and served as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade, following in his father’s footsteps.
Oz had only just become a ‘Staff Sergeant’ a few days prior to his death. Oz was a member of the reconnaissance platoon.
A close friend of his posted their most recent “WhatsApp” conversation, where Mendelovich attempted to ease her fears for his life before entering Gaza. “Look, it’s all about your attitude. The army is a phase in one’s life, there’s no need to be stuck inside it forever. Understand?” he said. “I thought I understood,” a friend wrote in a post above that “WhatsApp” screenshot. “But I don’t think you understand how difficult it is for me now to speak about you in the past tense…for certain people, you may just be a name in the news or in ceremonies, but to me you are my world and there is nobody else like you.”
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more.
Oz was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Oz Mendelovitch was laid to rest in Misgav cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Ofer and Osnat, and his two siblings, a 16-‐year-‐old sister and a 13-‐
year-‐old brother.
Staff Sgt. Nissim Sean Carmeli 21 years old
Nissim Sean Carmeli from Ra’anana is an American citizen that immigrated to Israel from Texas while in high school. After graduating, before it was time for him to enter the army, Sean made a decision to spend some time in a yeshivah and then to draft into the IDF.
According to the Michael Levin Lone Soldier Center’s Facebook page, Carmeli was a returning citizen who came to Israel to “strengthen, unite, and define what it means to be a Jew today. Everything may be bigger in Texas, but the beaches and parties could not distract a native-‐son from returning home to defend and protect his people…They made the ultimate sacrifice, in an attempt to rid the world of one of the most evil, unimaginable and horrible organizations to ever exist,” the post concluded.
Sean served with honor and distinction in the Golani Brigade. When he was called up, his superior told him that he did not need to go to the front because of a wound on his foot. Sean, however, insisted on accompanying his comrades into Gaza. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Sean was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. Nissim Sean Carmeli is survived by his parents, Alon and Dalya, and his two sisters, Or and Gal, who flew to Israel immediately upon being notified of their son’s death. Staff Sergeant Carmeli was buried in Haifa’s Neve David cemetery. There had been concerns that the lone soldier, who split his time between Ra’anana and South Padre Island, Texas, where his Israeli parents live, wouldn’t have enough people paying their final respects at his funeral. Since Carmeli was a huge fan of Maccabi Haifa, the soccer team posted a photo of Carmeli on its Facebook page after his death, asking fans to go, so that his funeral wouldn’t be deserted. The team also announced that it would have two buses waiting at the cemetery to bring people back to the country’s center, after the 11 pm service. Tens of thousands of people arrived at Carmeli’s funeral to say a final goodbye to the soldier. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Moshe Melako 20 years old Moshe Melako was raised in the Neve Ya'akov neighborhood of Jerusalem. He was a partner and an activist within the community. His teachers had described him as a student who always smiled, was surrounded by friends and was a polite and pleasant young man. Moshe always helped around the house and supported his family and his younger siblings. Melako joined the IDF in a combat unit following in his brother’s footsteps. His dream was to enlist in Golani. He loved Golani and enjoyed what he was doing. “Don’t think their blood was shed in vain”, his sister said. “They are heroes. They have fallen with self-‐sacrifice as martyrs for the Land of Israel and the Torah of Israel and for the People of Israel. Remember that in the merit of unity and brotherly love all pain that comes upon us will be ended and we will be redeemed” she said in conclusion.
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Moshe was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. Melako was laid to rest in the military cemetery at Mt. Herzl in Jerusalem. Hundreds of people took part in his funeral. Melako is survived by his parents and seven siblings. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Max Steinberg 24 years old
Steinberg, a native of Los Angeles [without Israeli citizenship], visited Israel for the first time on a Birthright trip in 2012. By the end of his Birthright trip, he was smitten. After a short time back in the U.S., he decided to join the IDF, and lobbied his superiors to be placed in a combat unit.
His mother said that it was on his Birthright trip that he decided that Israel was where he wanted to be. It was on his visit to the National cemetery at Mount Herzl that Max saw the grave of an American “lone soldier” who died fighting for Israel. Max told his parents that he want to voluntarily join the IDF, even though he didn’t know Hebrew. The army accepted him and eventually he was accepted into Golani’s 13th Battalion, where he became a sharpshooter.
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Max was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Max Steinberg was survived by his parents Evie and Stuart Steinberg, brother, and sister. Thirty-‐thousand people came to Max’s funeral in Jerusalem at Mount Herzl, the military cemetery in Jerusalem.
Staff Sgt. Shachar Tase 20 years old Shachar Tase was from Pardesiya. He graduated from Dror High School and according to his friends he smiled all the time and was a modest person. His dream was to get into the Golani military unit and when he finally did, he couldn’t be happier. Tase served as a combat soldier in the 13th Golani Brigade. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Shachar was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Staff Sergeant Shachar Tase was laid to rest in the military section of the Paedesiya cemetery. He is survived by his parents and two siblings, Hen (26), and Omri (17). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Daniel Pomerantz 20 years old Daniel Pomerantz was born and raised in Yavne, and later he moved with his family to Moshav Kfar Azar. He was involved with the Scouts youth movement and a good student. After graduating High school, Pomerantz joined the IDF as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade. Pomerantz is the son of Colonel (ret.) Varda Pomerantz, the former head of the IDF's casualties branch, who served as caring for bereaved families. Varda, recorded her last conversation with her son. In the recording he tells his mother that he wrote a note to her and the family, and that it is on his phone, but he doesn’t want to read it to her now, he’ll leave it for when he gets back. After hearing about her son’s death she read the note that was retrieved from Daniel’s phone after the battle. “I’m so happy I was born to this family”, Daniel wrote, “If you’re reading this, it means my career [in Golani] has come to an end. All of you must be happy, stay happy for me,” he finishes, after telling each of his brothers and his parents how much he loves them. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Daniel was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Pomerantz was laid to rest at Moshav Kfar Azar where thousands of people attended his funeral. He is survived by his parents, and siblings.
Sgt. Shon Mondshine 19 years old
Shon Mondshine was from Tel-‐Aviv. He graduated from Ironi Daled High School where he majored in history and film studies.
Mondshine wanted to serve in the Golani Brigade, where his older brother served. “He was a beautiful boy from the outside and from the inside,” his mother told Channel 2 News. “People said, ‘Shon, you are such a smart boy you can go do anything in the army,’ and he replied: ‘My brother was in Golani, and I want to be in Golani, too,’” his mother said.
After graduating from High school he joined the IDF and served as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade.
Before Shon entered Gaza he wrote six letters to his family and friends.
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more.
Shon was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Shon Mondshine was laid to rest in the military section of the Nahalat Yitzhak cemetery in Tel Aviv. He is survived by his parents, brother and sister.
Sgt. Ben Itzhak Oanounou
19 years old
Ben was from Ashdod. He attended Amit Yud District High School. “He was a friendly student who was always smiling and was truly motivated to serve in the IDF” his friends said. After graduating high school, he joined to the IDF and completed his basic training at the top of his unit. Having lost 40 kilograms in order to serve his country, Oanounou had just enlisted a few months before his passing. Despite being new to the military, he was an exceptional soldier, and was therefore, deployed in Gaza alongside another soldier and their commander, while the rest of their company remained in Israel’s north.
Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Ben was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Ben Itzhak Oanounou was laid to rest in the military section of the Ashdod cemetery where thousands of people attended his funeral. Oanounou is survived by his parents, two brothers, and sister. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Oren Simcha Noach 22 years old
Oren Simcha Noach was born in Ma'ale Gilboa, grew up in Sde Ilan and moved with his family to Hoshaya when he was 13. He graduated from a yeshiva high school in Tiberias and attended the Otzem Pre-‐Military Torah Academy before joining the IDF. Noach served in the Golani Brigade as a combat soldier and completed a squad commander training. Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Oren was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day.
Noach’s family gathered with hundreds of people at the community’s synagogue and buried him in the community’s cemetery. He is survived by his parents his sister, 24, his two brothers, 28 and 13.
Sgt. Oron Shaul 19 years old Oron Shaul was from Poria Illit, near Tiberius. He graduated from Beit Yareach High School. Shaul served as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade. He insisted on serving in Golani Brigade despite the fact that his mother was sick so he was given the option to serve closer to home in an easier job. Last Independence Day Oron received the Presidential Medal for Outstanding Soldiers. While presenting Oron with his medal it was said that "he was dedicated to the mission, helping and volunteering for any purpose. He demonstrates professionalism and responsibility, and he has good interpersonal relationships. He is appreciated by his commanders and the members of his unit." Thirteen Golani Brigade soldiers were killed in different incidents in and around Shujaiyeh in the eastern Gaza Strip on July 20th, 2014. Two US citizens were among the fallen. In one incident north of Shujaiyeh, Golani troops were ambushed and an RPG was fired at their APC, killing seven and severely wounding two, with one missing. In another incident, three soldiers were killed, including two officers in the battalion. Three more soldiers were killed in another gun battle nearby. In another incident, an anti-‐tank rocket was fired at a building in Shujaiyeh where troops were staying, killing three and wounding many more. Oron was one of the fallen soldiers on this awful day. He was initially designated Missing in Action (MIA), and his death was formally confirmed by the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) chief rabbi on July 25th, 2014. The family was told that he was designated a fallen soldier “whose place of death is not known”.
Lt. Col. Dolev Keidar 38 years old Dolev Keider lived in Modiin with his family. Keidar joined the IDF in 1995 to Givati Brigade. He served in several roles, and two weeks before he died he enlisted to be the commander of the Geffen Battalion-‐ the battalion of the combat officers training. Keidar was killed along with three soldiers under his command, near Kibbutz Nir Am in a firefight with terrorists who had infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip.
Keidar is the highest-‐ranking officer to be killed in Operation Protective Edge.
After his death, Israeli television replayed clips from a 2009 documentary Keidar took part in, “Waiting for him,” about the families of officers in the IDF and their struggles. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Nadav Goldmacher 23 years old Nadav Goldmacher lived in Be'er Sheva. He studied at Mevoot Negev High School and at Kay College in Be'er Sheva. He was a fan of ‘Hapoel Be'er Sheva’ soccer team. After graduating from high school, Goldmacher joined to the IDF. He was serving as part of a unit from Bahad 1, an IDF officer training base. He was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 alongside three other soldiers who were killed near Kibbutz Nir Am in a firefight with terrorists who had infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip. Nadav Goldmacher was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Be'er Sheva. He is survived by his parents and three siblings. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Master Sergeant (Res.) Yair Ashkenazy 36 years old Yair Ashkenazi was from Rehovot. He and his wife moved to Rehovot from the north six years before Operation ‘Protective Edge’ began. Ashkenazy, a lawyer by profession, worked as an external legal counsel to Modi’in Municipality. Yair served in the reserves brigade of the Bahad 1 officer training base. Major Avi Bokubeza, who served with Yair in the reserves, spoke at the funeral: “To be a squad leader for so many years is a complex role. Your soldiers were your friends. And yet you knew how to conduct yourself in a professional, substantive way while demonstrating a quiet yet evident leadership. In a way, that characterized you as a commander, and a man in general.” At his funeral Yair’s wife cried, “If there is any comfort, it is that you died a holy death in service of your country,” she said. Yair was killed on Friday, July 25th, 2014 during operational activity in the northern Gaza Strip. Yair Ashkenazy was laid to rest in Rehovot Military Cemetery. He is survived by his wife Moriah, and their three children Yoel, Amir and their youngest Ya’ara, who was just four years old when he died in service of his country. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Guy Levy 21 years old Guy Levy was raised in Kfar Vradim. He attended 'Manor Cabri' High School in Kibbutz Cabri. Guy was a gifted musician, played saxophone for the Kfar Vradim Youth Orchestra. His family describes him as someone who loved life, was always happy, and was always surrounded by many friends. Guy was planning to work for the Jewish Agency as a Shaliach, a representative for Israel abroad, after being released from the army. After Levy graduated high school, he joined the IDF as an Armored Corps combat soldier. Guy was killed on Friday, July 25th, 2014 during heavy fighting in the central Gaza Strip when killed by an anti-‐tank missile fired at his unit. Guy Levy was laid to rest in Kfar Vradim military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Galia and Ran, and his younger sister, Orinne. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Guy Boyland 21 years old Guy Boyland was from Kibbutz Ginosar, in the northern part of the Sea of Galilee. He immigrated to Israel from New Zealand when he was five years old with his parents, Glenn, a New Zealander and Adva, originally from Kibbutz Ginosar. His family described him as loving life and always made sure to surround himself by good friends. He was also incredibly musically talented -‐ playing the guitar and a member of the band, ‘Silent Sin’. Boyland served as a fighter in the Combat Engineering Corps at the Sa'ar MiGolan Armored Brigade. He was recognized for outstanding service in the IDF twice. He had recently worked with weaponry, sewing bullet-‐proof vests, according to a biography read out at the service. Boyland was killed on Friday, July 25th, 2014 during heavy fighting in the Gaza Strip. Guy was only four months away from completing his mandatory army service. Guy Boyland was laid to rest in the Kibbutz Ginosar cemetery. He is survived by his parents and sister, Kim. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Amit Yaori 20 years old Amit Yaori was born and raised in Jerusalem. Yaori, who attended the ‘Hebrew gimnasia' in Jerusalem majored in arts and geography. Before his enlistment he invested a lot of time in improving his physical fitness to be able to handle the army's demands. Those who came to eulogize Amit described him as a outstanding young man -‐ intelligent, gifted and motivated, who would be forever missed by those who knew him and were close to him. Yaori joined the IDF as a combat soldier in the Combat Engineering corps, the unit that eventually destroyed the terror tunnels in the south of Israel. Two and a half years after he joined to the IDF, on Friday, July 25th, 2014 he was killed during a firefight in Gaza. He was killed in battle when he entered a terrorist-‐held structure. Amit Yaori was laid to rest in the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery, accompanied by hundreds of people. He is survived by his parents Shahar and Einat, a younger brother Ido, and sister Noam. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Avraham Greentzweig 21 years old Avraham Greentzweig was from Petah Tikva. He studied at ‘Rashish’ Junior High School and later at ‘Golda’ High School. Grintzvaig was a talented musician. He played a variety of instruments and he loved to listen to heavy metal music. Grintzweig served as an infantry soldier in the Nahal Brigade. He was killed on Saturday, July 26th, 2014 when he heard the sound of explosions and gunfire from the next building and rushed to the scene. As he reached the point of the event he saw another solider and together they began to evacuate the wounded who at that point were under terrorist fire. When he hurried back to the building a second time, he was injured and soon after, died. Avraham Grintzvaig was laid to rest in the Segula military cemetery in Petah Tikva. He is survived by his parents Gideon and Hedva, his twin sister Inbal and his girlfriend Melory. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Cap. Roi Peles 21 years old Roi Peles was born and raised in Tel Aviv. He loved the beach and he was an avid beach volleyball player. Peles studied at ‘Ironi Hey’ High School in Tel Aviv. After he graduated he went onto study at the pre-‐military Academy for 1 year in the Golan Heights and was then enlisted in the Nahal brigade starting in 2012. Peles had just completed ‘Officers’ Training’ four weeks prior. He was placed in charge of a platoon of ‘Orev’, a unit in the Nahal Brigade. His commander described him as a soldier and officer who was modest and stood up for his values. “Roi was a hero in his life and will remain a hero after his death” he said. Roi was killed in combat in the Gaza strip on Saturday, July 26th, 2014 when his armored vehicle came under attack. Roi Peles was laid to rest in Kiryat Shaul military cemetery in Tel Aviv. He is survived by his parents Hagit and Dor and his older twin sisters Lee and Shani. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Gal Bason 21 years old Gal was born in Jerusalem and later moved to Holon with his family. He studied in Holon, opting for an athletic track. He completed his studies with excellence. Gal was a basketball player on the youth team ‘Hapoel’ Holon and majored in athletics and sports in high school. While his athletic abilities allowed him to be considered as an outstanding athlete in the army, thus exempting him from combat positions, he preferred to fight on the front lines. Prior to enlisting into the IDF he was part of an Israeli-‐Arab delegation in Germany promoting dual existence and dialogue. Gal entered the IDF joining ‘Sayeret Yahalom’ -‐ the elite unit of the combat engineers. Bason was killed on Saturday, July 26th, 2014 in combat in the northern Gaza Strip. Gal Bason was laid to rest in Holon military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Pnina and Eli, his brother Ben (23) who also served in Gaza, his sister Linoy (14) and his girlfriend Almog. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sergeant First Class (res.) Barak Refael Degorker 27 years old Barak Degorker was from Gan Yavne. He belonged to the Bene-‐Israel community, which has its origin in the Mumbai region. The community, with a population of around 80,000, is the largest Indian community in Israel. Barak recently finished law school with honours and was just about to begin his internship. Degorker was in a reserve unit of the Engineering Corps. Barak was killed on July 26th, 2014 after being hit by a mortar shell near the Gaza Strip border during a humanitarian ceasefire. He was with a group of other soldiers in an assembly zone near a kibbutz in the Sdot Negev Regional Council at the time. He was seriously injured and succumbed to his injuries during the night. Barak Refael Degorker was laid to rest in the military cemetery in his hometown. He is survived by his parents Moshe and Ora, a sister and two younger brothers who were also on reserve duty at the Gaza border. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Cpt. Liad Lavi 20 years old Liad Lavi was from Sde Nitzan, a village very close to the Gaza border. Lavi, who attended ‘Hareali’ Military boarding school in Haifa, was a Zionist in his heart and soul. He loved the country and the army. After graduating High school Lavi joined the IDF and served as an Infantry Officer in paratroop unit. Liad was fatally wounded while fighting in the southern Gaza Strip with his paratroop unit. His unit was engaged by a Hamas cell, and he was struck by a bullet in the ensuing firefight. He died of his wounds at the Soroka University Medical Center in Beersheba on July 26th, 2014. Liad Lavi was laid to rest in the military section of Meitar cemetery. His parents and six brothers survive him. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Chief Warrant Officer Rami Kahlon 39 years old Rami Kahlon was from Givat Olga, a neighborhood in Hadera. Rami, who served nearly 20 years in the IDF as a non-‐commissioned officer in the Paratroopers Brigade, won the Chief of General Staff award for excellence. He was posthumously promoted to “Chief Warrant Officer”. Rami Khalon was critically wounded in Gaza as he attempted to evacuate a wounded soldier from the battlefield. After being injured in a grenade explosion, the doctors fought for Rami’s life for four days while his family members would not move from his bedside, praying for his recovery. Rami died on Saturday, July 26th, 2014 in Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. Rami Kahlon was laid to rest in Hadera military cemetery. He is survived by his mother, his wife Pnina, and their four children, Yosiel (16), Maor (15), Hillel (14) and Amiad (8). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Eliav Eliyahu Haim Kahlon 22 years old Eliav Kahlon was born and raised in Ramat Razim, Tzfat. He attended public school in the city, and then to Amit Tzfat Yeshiva High School. Eliav served in the armored corps at the 7th Armored Brigade, ‘Otzvat Sa'ar m’Golan’ as the technology expert of the brigade. He was about to complete his mandatory military service when he had been killed. Eliav was the second of seven children. His eldest brother is also serving in the current Gaza offensive as a reservist. Thousands attended his funeral in Safed. Secular, religious and ultra-‐Orthodox residents flooded the road leading down to the cemetery. Among the participants were the Yeshiva and Kolel’s Rabbi leaders that came along with their students to pay their last respects to the young fighter who was killed for his country. Eliav was killed on Monday, July 28th, 2014 fighting terrorists in northern Gaza. Eliav Kahlon was laid to rest in the Tzfat military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Yocheved and David, and six brothers. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Cprl. Meidan Maymon Biton 20 years old Meidan Biton was born and raised in Netivot. He was a funny kid and a good boy. He loved going out and doing anything with friends.
Meidan’s friends and family found it difficult to accept his death. Many Facebook pages were created in his memory. On one of them a friend of Meidan’s posted: “Your joy for life, your good heart, your listening ear, your generosity, you are eternal…I will always remember you. I can’t digest this. We are missing your joy here…Thank you for fighting for us. Rest in peace, my dear friend. I will remember you forever.” Biton served in the armored corps at the 7th Armored Brigade, ‘Otzvat Sa'ar m’Golan’ in a combat support position. On his Facebook page, Meidan described his service along the border with Gaza during the operation as "an irritating flashback to Operation Pillar of Defense." Biton was killed on Monday, July 28, 2014 along with three other soldiers by a mortar shell attack in a staging area on the Gaza border. He was the second soldier from a city near the Gaza border to be killed during operation Protective Edge. Meidan Biton was laid to rest in Netivot cemetery. His parents, Menachem and Etti, and his three younger siblings survive him. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Cprl. Niran Cohen 20 years old Niran was born and raised in Tiberias. At his funeral a family friend said, “He was an amazing kid. Kindhearted. He always helped everyone, especially his parents…He was always surrounded by many friends who adored him.” After Niran graduated high school he join the IDF as a cook in the 7th Armored Brigade. His service was weekly so he also worked repairing/installing air conditioners. Niran was killed on Monday, July 28th, 2014 by a mortar shell that exploded by the Gaza border. When he died he was laying on his bed listening to the music of his favorite singer -‐ Eyal Golan. Niran had just spent his last weekend at home with his family and friends before returning to the base on Sunday. Niran Cohen was laid to rest in Tiberias military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Navah and Ofer, two sisters Mor (23) and Almog (12) and his brother, Kobi (5). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Adi Briga 23 years old Adi Briga was raised in Moshav Beit Shikma and lived with his girlfriend, Yulia, in Ashkelon. He loved to ride horses. He participated in competitions and worked as a horseback-‐riding instructor for children. Adi was considered a “miracle baby” – having been born 13 years after his mother tried to conceive a child. He was extremely dedicated to his family and friends. Briga wanted to become a chef, and he recently begun to work as a cook in a ballroom at Ashkelon. Soon after starting work he had been called up for reserves, only 1 year after completing his mandatory army service. He left his home and joined his friends in Gaza. Briga was a soldier in the 7th Armored Brigade. During operation Protective Edge He was serving in the reserves as the driver of the armored brigade. Adi was killed on Monday, July 28th, 2014 along with three other soldiers when a mortar fired from Gaza exploded near him. Adi Briga was laid to rest in the Ashkelon military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Pnina and David, his brother Rafael, and his sister Michal. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Moshe “Moshiko” Davino 20 years old Moshe Davino was from Katamon, Jerusalem. He attended ‘Denemark’ High School in Jerusalem, with his friend Moshe Malako who was also killed during operation Protective Edge. Davino, known by his friends and family as Moshiko, was named after a soldier who was killed in battle. He was a funny and charismatic man. Davino was a Combat Engineering Corps soldier. When he was drafted to the IDF he and his friends decided to go to the same unit together, the Combat Engineering Corps, to serve in an engineering tools operator role. In their unit they were known as ‘Team-‐Katamon’, named after the neighborhood they all lived in. Moshiko was killed on Monday, July 28th, 2014 when a terrorist cell fired an anti-‐tank missile at a D-‐9 armored bulldozer he was in. Moshe Davino was laid to rest in the Mount Hertzel military cemetery in Jerusalem. He is survived by his parents, Ruhama and Nissim, and three siblings. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Nadav Raimond 19 years old Nadav Raimond was from Shadmot Dvora. He studied at ‘Kadoorie’ agricultural high school and was Israel's 2011 national downhill bicycle champion. After graduating High School Nadav joined the IDF as a combat soldier. He was a third-‐generation paratrooper, proudly following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps. Nadav was in a commanders’ course when he died. Nadav was killed along with four other soldiers from his course on July 28th, 2014 in a combat when terrorists infiltrated Israel via a tunnel from Gaza and attempted to execute a terror attack against a civilian target. Nadav Raimond was laid to rest in the military section of Shadmot Dvora cemetery in the lower Galilee. He is survived by his parents Avi and Yuval, and his two brothers Noam and Yoav.
Sgt. Daniel Kedmi 18 years old Daniel Kedmi was from Tzofim. He was the youngest kid of 4 siblings in his family. Daniel attended ‘Rabin’ high school in Kfar Saba. He was a fan of ‘Beitar Jerusalem’ soccer team. After graduating High School, Kedmi joined the IDF in the Kfir brigade and later he joined to the commanders’ course. Daniel was killed along with four other soldiers from his course on July 28th, 2014 in a combat when terrorists infiltrated Israel via a tunnel from Gaza and attempted to execute a terror attack against a civilian target. Daniel Kedmi was laid to rest in Kiryat Shaul military cemetery in Tel Aviv. He is survived by his parents Boaz and Tami and three older siblings, Yossi (30), Ori (27) and Natalli (23). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Barkey Ishai Shor 21 years old Barkey Shor was from Jerusalem. After high school and before drafting to the IDF he studied at the ‘Shavei Hevron’ yeshiva for two years. Barkey volunteered at every opportunity -‐ he helped prepare food packages at ‘Yad Eliezer’ (a charity organization that assists the needy), volunteered at the Magen David Adom emergency medical services and was a counselor at the ‘Bnei Akiva’ youth movement. Shor was drafted to the IDF as a combat soldier and hoped to become a paramedic. He was in the commanders’ course at the time of his death. Barkey was killed along with four other soldiers from his course on July 28th, 2014 in a combat when terrorists infiltrated Israel via a tunnel from Gaza and attempted to execute a terror attack against a civilian target. Barkey Ishai Shor was laid to rest in Mount Herzel military cemetery at Jerusalem. His parents and three brothers survive him. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Sagi Erez 19 years old Sagi Erez was born and raised in Kiryat Ata. He attended the elementary school "Hazvi Israel" and the junior high school ‘Rogozin’. At 16 he joined a military boarding school in Haifa. Sagi always wanted to have a military career even though his parents weren’t so happy with that. He finished high school at the military boarding school in Haifa and was drafted to the ‘Givati’ Brigade as a combat soldier. He received early acceptance to the squad’s commanders' course, and his next goal was to become a Battalion Commander. Sagi was killed along with four other soldiers from his course on July 28th, 2014 in a combat when terrorists infiltrated Israel via a tunnel from Gaza and attempted to execute a terror attack against a civilian target. Sagi Erez was laid to rest in the Haifa military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Ilan and Edna and two younger sisters. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Dor Dery 18 years old Dor Dery was born and raised in Jerusalem. He was the youngest of four children in his family. Dery attended to ‘Gilo’ high school in Jerusalem.
Before Dor was drafted to the IDF, he went to a pre-‐army preparatory course and worked his hardest to be placed in a combat unit. Dor served in the ‘Kfir’ battalion as a combat soldier and later was sent to commanders' course. Dery was an ambitious soldier who excelled in the commander’s course he had just begun, and successfully completed the basic training section just a few months before his death. Dor was killed along with four other soldiers from his course on July 28th, 2014 in a combat when terrorists infiltrated Israel via a tunnel from Gaza and attempted to execute a terror attack against a civilian target. Dery was laid to rest in the Mount Herzel military cemetery at Jerusalem, his hometown. He is survived by his parents David and Ronit and his three brothers Shimon, Avichai, and Zohar. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Matan Gotlib 21 years old Matan Gotlib was from Rishon Lezion. He attended to ‘HaAmit’ high school and he was very involved in the Scouts youth movement in his city. “Matan smiled a lot, always loved to help, loved the country, and loved to travel through it in his jeep,” his brother Omer said about him. Matan always wanted to be in a combat unit. He said he was ready to die for the country, and he knew it was very dangerous. After he graduated high school Matan joined the IDF. He was a commander soldier in Maglan, an elite IDF unit. Gotlib had been looking forward to being released from the army in three months time. Before Gotlib went into Gaza, he wrote a letter to his family. “I just wanted to say that all is fine and I’m thinking about you…I miss the scene of the dining room table with all sides full on Friday. It’s hard for me to write anything deep, because I choke with tears when I think about you. I miss you a great deal. Lots of love, Matan.” Gotlib was killed on Wednesday July 30th, 2014 along with two other soldiers from his unit while searching for terror tunnels in the Southern Gaza town of Khan Yunis. He was laid to rest in the Rishon Lezion military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, his two brothers Nitzan and Omer and his girlfriend Lihi. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Omer Hay 21 years old Omer Hay was born and raised in Savion. Sport was a leading role in his life. He loved running, swimming, skiing and soccer. Omer ran for the challenge of it. Since he was a child he competed in running competitions on behalf of his school and later he represented his unit in the IDF competitions. Omar is the son of Dr. Ilan and Orit Hay, a cardiologist and an ophthalmologist, senior doctors at ‘Sheba’ Tel-‐Hashomer hospital. His grandfather Professor Vidne Bernardo, is the senior cardiac surgeon at ‘Belinson’ hospital. After graduating High school with honours, Omer joined the IDF as a combat soldier in Maglan, an elite unit of the IDF. "He was so gentle and pleasant, outstanding personality, hardworking, intelligent, he worked very hard and graduated with honours. Was a very determined kid and it was important for him to serve in the army. He always said that the IDF is most important to him, even more then school "said Orit Gore, Omer’s guidance councilor at high school. Omer was killed on Wednesday July 30th, 2014 along with two other soldiers from his unit while searching for terror tunnels in the Southern Gaza town of Khan Yunis. He was buried at the Savion cemetery. His parents Ilan and Orit, three brothers, Guy, Maya and Jonatan, and his girlfriend Hadas survive him. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Guy Algranati 20 years old Guy Algranati was from Tel Aviv. He was the eldest child and the only boy from 6 children in his family. He attended ‘Aliance’ High School. His friends and teachers describe him as an intelligent and caring student who was always extremely modest. Algranati was always motivated to serve as a combat soldier. After he graduated high school, he joined the IDF as a combat soldier in Maglan, an elite IDF unit. Guy was killed on Wednesday July 30th, 2014 along with two other soldiers from his unit while searching for terror tunnels in he Southern Gaza town of Khan Yunis. Guy Algranati was laid to rest at Kiryat Shaul cemetery in Tel Aviv. He is survived by his parents Eyal and Danit, five sisters, and his girlfriend, Noa. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Capt. Omri Tal 22 years old Omri Tal was born and raised in Yehud. After he finished high school he went to a Pre-‐military Social Leadership academy in the Upper Galilee for a year. The bedroom he left behind expressed his personality. History, philosophy and battle’s history books arranged in his library, and above them his pictures with his family and his girlfriend. Pictures of nature and a topographic map of the Sea of Galilee on the wall, symbolized his love for nature. A flag lying on his bed of his army unit demonstrated his love for Israel. But of all these, the most striking aspect of Omri's room was his "Wall of sentences", exhibiting his deep spiritual side. Omri drafted to the IDF and served as a combat soldier at the "Barak" Armored Brigade. Omri was killed on Thursday, July 31st, 2014 along with four soldiers of the 188th "Barak" Armored Brigade by mortar fire on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip. Omri Tal was laid to rest in Yehud military cemetery. Israeli singer David Broza was at the funeral to sing his song "Mitahat LaShamayim" ("Under the Sky"), the song that was meant to be Omri Tal’s and his girlfriend Liat Zimerman's wedding song. Tal is survived by parents Esti and Yoram, his brother Rotem and girlfriend Liat. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Shay Kushnir 20 years old Shay Kushnir was from Kiryat Motzkin. He studied at the Technological School of the Air Force in Haifa, but had dreamed of serving in an IDF combat position, so after graduating he left the air force and drafted to the Armored Brigade. Shay’s parents got divorced when he was three and he was the only child of his father, Michael, who also served in the Armored Corps and was wounded in the Lebanon War in 1985. After graduating high school Shay joined the IDF in the Barak Armored Brigade. After completing tank commanders’ training, Shay decided to become a combat medic. He finished his training not too long before Operation Protective Edge began, and was deployed in Gaza. A day before his death, his father wrote a message on his son’s Facebook page. “I really, really, really miss you,” he wrote. “I am living with a feeling that I haven’t seen you in years. How are you responding to every situation that you encountered, you and all the youth that have befallen this difficult task? … with every day that passes turns from an operation to a war in every sense of this horrible word, but I know and believe that you and your friends are strong, determined and full of motivation to complete this difficult task, which has fallen to you.” Shay was killed on Thursday, July 31st, 2014 along with four soldiers of the 188th "Barak" Armored Brigade by mortar fire on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip. Shay Kushnir was laid to rest in the military section at Kiryat Ata's cemetery. His parents and a half sister, Natalia, survive him. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Sgt. Major (res.) Daniel Marsh 22 years old Daniel Marash was from Rishon Lezion. He studied at Mekif Tet High School in the city. Daniel had two loves in his life -‐ his girlfriend, Zohar, and music. Daniel and Zohar were together for 7 years, since they were 15 years old. The two were planning to get married in the next few years. Before the army Daniel learned to play music and excelled at the electric guitar. After he was released from the army he renewed his relationship with his music teacher to further hone his skills and went on to establish a rock band called "Distant Park". His first song was called 'In another way'. Daniel was a combat medic in the Armored Corps. He finished his mandatory duty only 5 months before his death and been called up for reserves the beginning of Operation Protective Edge. Daniel was killed on Thursday, July 31st, 2014 along with four soldiers of the 188th "Barak" Armored Brigade by mortar fire on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip. Daniel Marsh was laid to rest in Holon military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Diana and Aryeh, his three siblings, Vadim (30), Avivit (29) and Darren (38) and his girlfriend Zohar. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Noam Rosenthal of Meitar 20 years old Noam Rosenthal was from Meitar. He studied at the high school in Omer. Rosenthal served as a combat medic in the 188th “Barak” Armored Brigade and was scheduled to complete his mandatory duty a few months after his death. Noam was killed on Thursday, July 31st, 2014 along with four soldiers of the 188th "Barak" Armored Brigade by mortar fire on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip. Noam Rosenthal was laid to rest in the military section of the Meitar Cemetery. He is survived by his parents, Martin and Osnat, a twin brother, Gal, and an older brother Hadar. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Capt. (res.) Liran Adir (Edry) 31 years old Liran Adir grew up in Netanya and was living with his wife Salyit in Ezuz, a Negev community. Adir got married just one month before his death. He and his wife where supposed to move to the Czech Republic for Liran’s medical studies. Liran also held a bachelor’s degree in law. Adir was a soldier in the Barak Armored Brigade. He was called up for reserves as the casualty evacuation officer. Liran was killed on Thursday, July 31st, 2014 along with four soldiers of the 188th "Barak" Armored Brigade by mortar fire on the Israeli side of the border with the Gaza Strip. Liran Adir was laid to rest in the Netanya military cemetery. His parents Rachel and David, his wife Salyit and two siblings survive him.
Maj. Benaya Sarel 26 years old
Benaya Sarel was born and raised in Kiryat Arba. His family is one of the pioneer families of Kiryat Arba. Benaya studied in the ‘Makor Chaim’ orthodoxy high school in Gush Etzion. His mother, Michal, is a teacher in a Kiryat Arba girl’s high school. His father, Rabbi Shalom, is a construction engineer. Sarel was engaged to Gali, and were supposed to get married three weeks after his death. When Benaya was in the Platoon Commanders' Course earlier on in his service, two of his best friends named Amihai and Rubin were murdered. Both were soldiers at the time. Their murder motivated Benaya to stay in the IDF for an extended period. Sarel was the commander of the Givati Brigade's Reconnaissance Battalion. Benaya was killed on Friday, 1 August 2014 when his brigade was fighting terrorists in the the southern Gaza Strip. Two other soldiers of the Givati brigade were killed in the same fight. Benaya Sarel was laid to rest in Hebron cemetery. Thousands of people arrived for his funeral. He is survived by his parents, seven brothers and sisters and his fiancé, Gali. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Liel Gidoni 20 years old Liel was born and raised in Jerusalem, the youngest child to his family. Liel was always smiling. He was the happiest person, the one who always laughed and told jokes. Liel was a huge fan of the ‘Hapoel’ Jerusalem basketball team. Gidoni’s dream was to be a combat soldier just like his older brothers. After he graduated high school, he joined the IDF as a combat soldier in Givati brigade. Liel was the radio-‐man of his company commander. Liel had nerely completed his military service when operation Protective Edge began. Liel was killed on Friday, 1 August 2014 when his brigade was fighting terrorists in the southern Gaza Strip. Two other commanders of the Givati brigade were killed in the same fight.
Liel Gidoni was laid to rest in the Mount Herzel military cemetery. His parents, Eli and Mazal and three brothers survive him.
Second Lt. Hadar Goldin 23 years old Hadar Goldin was from Kfar Saba. He was raised for part of his childhood in England while his parents taught at Cambridge University. Goldin, was one of four children, and had a twin brother, Tzur. Tzur and Hadar followed similar paths. Both attended high school in Kfar Saba together, were students at the Beit David pre-‐military academy in Eli, became combat soldiers at the same time (although they didn’t serve in the same unit) and later were trained as officers together. Hadar got engaged to his fiancée, Edna just few weeks before Operation Protective Edge began. Goldin join the IDF as a combat soldier in the Givati brigade. He later became an officer. On Friday morning, Aug. 1st, soldiers of the IDF headed toward a house in Rafah, which served as an entry point to a tunnel reportedly leading into Israel. As the IDF Troops advanced, a Hamas militant emerged from the tunnel and opened fire. Two soldiers were killed. A third, Goldin, was captured—whether dead or alive is unclear, and taken into the tunnel. On August 2nd, the day following the incident, Chief Rabbi of the IDF, Brigadier Gen. Rafi Peretz, declared the death of IDF officer, Lt. Hadar Goldin of the Givati Brigade commando unit, who fell in the Gaza Strip on Friday. The decision was made according to the findings of a special board, headed by the chief rabbi, which examined the details of the incident and related to both medical and halakhic considerations. Sgt. Shachar Shalev 20 years old “He was not a militarist. He loved life. The army for him was part of Zionism and part of being in the land of Israel,” friends said about him. Hadar Goldin was laid to rest in Kfar Saba military cemetery. Thousands of Israelis mourned and came together to remember him. He is survived by his parents Simcha and Hedva, his sister, his twin brother and his fiancée.
Shahar was born in Alonei HaBashan in the Golan Heights, a third son in a family of seven children. His parents Simon and Naomi are among the founders of the village. He was raised and educated in the primary school in the area and was a member and instructor at the ‘Bnei Akiva’ youth movement in the Golan Heights. When he reached the ninth grade he went onto study in Itamar Yeshiva High School. After graduating from high school he attended a pre-‐army academy ‘Arzei HaLebanon’ in Ma’ale Ephraim.
Shachar loved to travel and he loved handcrafts. Approximately a year and a half before his death, Shahar enlisted in the Paratroopers Brigade, completed his training, and became a combat soldier.Shalev was critically injured during combat in the Gaza Strip on July 23rd, 2014 alongside two other IDF Paratroopers when they entered a house in Khan Yunis, which was rigged with explosives. Nearby gunmen detonated an explosive device and then opened gunfire on the soldiers. Shachar succumbed to his wounds on August 31st at the ‘Rambam’ hospital in Haifa, where he was being treated. Shachar Shalev was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Hispin on the Golan Heights. He is survived by his parents, Shimon and Naomi, and six brothers and sisters – Dganit (24), Eyal (22), Hagai (19), Miriam (16), Doron (8) and Avia (4). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Warrant Officer Baynesain Kasahun 39 years old Baynesain Kasahun was from Netivot. He was the tracker in the northern division of the Gaza Division. His friends from the Gaza Division called him "Danny". Baynesain served in the army for 21 years and was injured during the overturning of a jeep in a tour that he was part of. As a result of his injury Kasahun suffered from ankle fractures and hemorrhages in his head. He was repositioned to a command position, but fought for over two and a half years to return to the field. About six months before his death Baynesain returned to his original role as a tracker. "He is a modest and quiet man, a good person who helped everyone" his family said. "Anyone who needed help he helped them, always smiling at everyone, he was a good man with a big heart". He was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 alongside with three other soldiers who were killed near Kibbutz Nir Am in a firefight with terrorists who had infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip. Kasahun left behind his wife who was nine months pregnant and their three small children. Ten days after his death, his widow gave birth to a baby girl. Baynesain Kasahun was laid to rest in the Netivot cemetery “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
. 1st Lt. Yuval Heiman 21 years old Yuval Heiman was born in Efrat and was the seventh generation of his family who lived in Jerusalem. His great-‐grandfather, along with three other family members of the Heiman family, had fallen in the War of Independence. Heiman graduated with honor from ‘Derech Avot, Ohr Torah Stone’ hight school. He won many trophies and medals for his excellence in sports, volunteering and being involved with B’nei Akiva.
Heiman was a combat soldier from Bahad 1, an IDF officer-‐training base.
He was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 alongside three other soldiers who were killed near Kibbutz Nir Am in a firefight with terrorists who had infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip. Yuval was laid to rest at Mount Herzl’s military section. His parents, brother and two sisters survive him.
Staff Sgt. Jordan Ben Simon 22 years old Jordan
Ben Simon was a ‘lone soldier’ from Ashkelon. He had immigrated to Israel from Lyon, France in 2008, completed his Master studies and enlisted in 2012.
“From the moment I met you, I realized I didn’t know what real Zionism was,” said Itai Leibovitch, Ben Simon’s commanding officer. Recalling the young man’s commitment, Leibovitch said that during training he had to convince Ben Simon to take leave and see his parents after he had not seen them for nearly a year. Jordan planned to make the army as his career, serving in an elite unit of the Golani infantry brigade.
Ben Simon was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 in the fighting in Sujaiyeh. Jordan Ben Simon was laid to rest in the Ashkelon military cemetery. He is survived by his parents, two sisters, and his girlfriend. Ben Simon's family from France were accompanied at the cemetery by thousands of Israelis who did not know him, but wanted to honor his memory and sacrifice for the State of Israel. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Tal Ifrach 21 years old
Ifrach was from Rishon Letzion. He was an avid athlete and took part in national track and cross-‐country competitions. “He was the shyest, most modest and pleasant guy that I knew” his friends and classmates, said. “He stood out in class mostly due to his kind heart and his laughter. Tal would take his guitar everywhere. It’s difficult to internalize that he has been killed”.
He enlisted and served in the Egoz Reconnaissance unit of the Golani Brigade, where he excelled and later served as a sniper.
Ifrach was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 in the fighting in Sujaiyeh. Three months before his release date from the IDF.
Tal Ifrach was laid to rest in the Rishon Letzion military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Aviva and Shalom, his sister Noy (23) and his girlfriend Noam.
Staff Sgt. Yuval Dagan
22 years old
Yuval Dagan was from Kfar Saba. After graduating from high school Dagan did Shnat-‐sheirut-‐ an Israel government-‐run Service Year volunteering Program in a village for at-‐risk youth during which contributed greatly to the south. Yuval served in the Golani Brigade like his entire family, for Yuval it was a dream to enlist in Golani since he was a teenager. He insisted on continuing in his unit despite being wounded during training. Yuval was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 in the fighting in Sujaiyeh. He was supposed to be released from the army a few months later.
Dagan was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Kfar Saba. His parents and his brother, Dovid, survive him.
Staff Sgt. Oded Ben Sira 22 years old
Oded was born and raised in Nir Etzion. He was always smiling, he was adored by all of his friends, and he loved music. His family and friends say that even though his character was not a very military character, he chose to follow the way of his older brothers and to serve in a combat unit, the ‘Nahal’ division 931, out of a desire to contribute in his military service the most and best for the State of Israel. In Ben Sira’s family, there is a tradition of dedication for the people and the country. His grandparents, Nahum and Pnian z”l were the heroes of Gush Etzion: They were among the founders of Kfar Etzion and the few who survived the last battle against the Jordanian Legion that massacred the members of the community, and then were among the founders of Nir Etzion on Mount Carmel. Oded was killed on Monday, July 21st, 2014 in the fighting in Sujaiyeh. He was on vacation before he was released from the IDF when he was called up. A few days before he was killed he was offered to be released, because the release date had been reached, but he chose to stay with his friends, and to continue their mission to defend the country. Oded Ben Sira was laid to rest in the military section of Nir Etzion cemetery. He is survived by his parents Miri and David and his five siblings: Yair, Michal, Gilad, Elhanan and Moriya. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Master Sgt. Ohad Shemesh 27 years old Ohad Shemesh was from Moshav Beit Elazari. He attended a high school in Ashdod, and was active in a non-‐profit organization fostering young leaders. He completed a bachelor’s degree in Middle East studies, and a graduate degree in strategic studies at Tel Aviv University. Shemesh enlisted in the reconnaissance unit of the Givati Brigade in 2005, where he was recognized as an outstanding soldier and received a citation from the president. Even after leaving the army, he continued to contribute to Israel’s security in several roles. Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Shemesh joined a volunteer group which went to help rebuild. In the course of his community volunteering, he received the Ilan Ramon Prize. Ohad Shemesh was killed on Monday July 21st, 2014 in the fighting in Gaza. Only five months after he married his wife, Hadar. The funeral took place in the military section of the cemetery in Mazkeret Batya. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Evyatar Tourjeman 20 years old Evyatar was from Beit She'an. After graduating from high school he went to the ‘Hakotel’ Yeshiva in the Old City of Jerusalem to do some Pre-‐Military Torah studies, he loved the Yeshiva and studying Torah.
Tourjeman served in the Paratroopers Brigade and was the Deputy Battalion Commander's radio operator. He was released from service two weeks before the operation began but he returned to service as part of the reserves force.
He was killed on July 22nd, 2014 during fighting in Gaza when an anti-‐tank missile was fired at his patrol from a building in Khan Yunis.
Hundreds of family members, friends from the army and friends from the ‘Hakotel’ Yeshiva accompanied Evyatar when he was laid to rest at the Mount Herzl Cemetery in Jerusalem. Evyatar Tourjeman is survived by his parents Meir and Ora and his three brothers Inon, Avia and Itay. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Lt. Natan Cohen
24 years old Natan Cohen was born and raised in Modi’in. He and his twin sister were the first children born in his family. Cohen was about to marry in October 2014 to his fiancée of five years, Tal, also an IDF officer. The two had already planned their dream weddin Cohen was a company commander in the Armored Corps and was loved and appreciated by his soldiers and command
Natan Cohen was killed on July 22nd, 2014 by a sniper while fighting in Gaza. Hundreds of mourners paid their last respects to Natan, who was laid to rest in the Modi’in military cemetery. Natan Cohen is survived by his parents David and Limor, fiancée Tal and four siblings-‐ Hadar, Itai, Liron and Uria.
Capt. Dimitri Levitas
26 years old Levitas had immigrated to Israel from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, when he was a year old. More recently, Levitas moved from Jerusalem to the Golan community of Gesher. Levitas, graduated from ‘Rene Cassin’ High School in Jerusalem. He was a talented athlete who played as a goalkeeper in his local soccer league. He loved to play the saxophone and draw in his free time and he dreamed of a long career in the army.
Capt. Dimitri Levitas, completed a company commander course a few months before his death and he was considered a valuable officer with a bright future in the IDF. Dimitri was a platoon commander in the Armored Corps. Capt. Dimitri Levitas was killed on July 22nd, 2014 by a sniper during fighting in Gaza.
Levitas was laid to rest at the military cemetery on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem. He is survived by his parents Marina and Alex, his sister Ana and his brother Daniel.
Lt. Paz Eliyahu
22 years old Paz Eliyahu was born and raised in Kibbutz Evron. After he graduated from high school he did Shnat-‐sheirut. Shnat-‐sheirut is an Israeli government-‐run Service Year volunteer Program in Neradim village near Arad. The village is comprised of children aged 4 to 18 that are out of their homes by court order to get educated.
Ella Bar, his girlfriend for the last seven years also volunteered with him in the same program. After finishing his year at Neradim, Paz enlisted in the Paratroop Brigade's elite patrol unit ’Egoz’ and later became an officer.
Paz was killed on July 23rd, 2014 alongside two other IDF Paratroopers when they entered a house in Khan Yunis, which was rigged with explosives. Nearby gunmen detonated an explosive device and then opened gunfire on the soldiers. Paz Eliyahu was laid to rest in the Kibbutz Evron military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Rachel and Uri, his brother Matan, currently a cadet officer in the IDF and his brother Yotam, a high school student. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Shahar Dauber 20 years old Shahar Dauber was raised in Kibbutz Ginegar. He attended 'Emek Yizrael' elementary school in Ginegar and 'Haemek Hamaaravi’ High School in Kibbutz Yifat. He was a gifted basketball player Shahar is the son of Orly and Boris, who immigrated to Israel in 1991 from the former Soviet Union. From a young age he saw himself as a mature man and took adult tasks upon himself. Friends of Ginegar say he always offered to help anyone who needed it. Before his enlistment, he invested a lot of time in improving his physical fitness so he would be able to handle the army's demands. After graduating high school, Shahar enlisted in the Paratroop Brigade. Before he went to fight, Dauber left a letter behind for his loved ones. The following is an English translation of the letter: “My name is Shahar Dauber and I would like to tell you a few things. First of all, I am very excited, I feel like I am doing something for my country. The pressure that rises in me is not only fear, it is the excitement of getting in there. I want to tell you that I left something behind, something that will help people remember me as I was. I miss my family, mom and dad and my older brother, and of course, my cat Kizi. I love you all, I am sorry for the hard times I put you through and hope you remember me as I am. I have one thing to ask and that is for you to remember me.”
Shahar was killed on July 23rd, 2014 alongside two other IDF Paratroopers when they entered a house in Khan Yunis, which was rigged with explosives. Nearby gunmen detonated an explosive device and then opened gunfire on the soldiers. Shahar Dauber was laid to rest in Kibbutz Ginegar military cemetery. He is survived by his parents and his brother Itai (24). “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer
Staff Sgt. Li Mat 19 years old Li Mat was from Eilat. He was called the 'boy of the sea' because he loved surfing. His father, Motti, was an officer in the IDF's Casualties Department and his mother, Smadar is a teacher at the ‘Galim’ elementary school in Eilat. Three years before Li’s death in August 2011 his older brother, Gal, who was an IDF soldier at the time, was on the 'Egged' bus, that was attacked on Route 12 by terrorists who had infiltrated from Egypt. Li served two years in the Paratrooper Brigade before he was killed on July 23rd, 2014 alongside two other IDF Paratroopers when they entered a house in Khan Yunis, which was rigged with explosives. Nearby gunmen detonated an explosive device and then opened gunfire on the soldiers. Li Mat was laid to rest in the Mount Herzel military cemetery. He is survived by his parents Motti and Smadar, his brother Gal, and his sisters Tal and Si. “As long as we live, they too will live; for they are now are a part of us; as we remember them” A poem by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer

Staff Sgt. Eitan Barak 20 years old

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