A Soldier's Farewell
The Final Letters of IDF Heroes
In today’s briefing, I want to honor the memories of three of our brave soldiers, Captain Y, SSGT A, and SSGT I, who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.
They each left behind a letter to their families, which have been translated and shared with their families’ permission:
Captain Y's letter, penned before a crucial operation in Jenin earlier this year, resonates with the stark reality and the unwavering spirit of a soldier. His reflections, "Why us, why now, why there," capture the essence of the bravery required in moments of uncertainty. He speaks of the comradery and trust among his team, a bond that fortifies them against the darkest of hours. Captain Y's commitment to his country and unit is profound, exemplified in his words, "To fight for this country... it's the standard."
Captain Y fell while engaging in combat against terrorists in Nahal Oz on October 7
SSGT A's letter is a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices behind the uniform. His heartfelt message to his family, expressing love and gratitude, sheds light on the human side of the soldier, often unseen in the shadows of duty. His acknowledgment of his sister Zohar and little Ori adds a deeply personal touch, revealing the depth of his familial bonds.
An excerpt of the original letter from SSG A
SSGT I's unfinished letter, a fragment of his thoughts, reflects an unspoken narrative, his aspirations and gratitude cut short by fate. Yet, even in these fragmented lines, his spirit shines through - the love for his friends, his pride in serving, and his unfulfilled dreams.
As we remember these heroes, their words continue to inspire and remind us of the cost of peace and freedom. They stood at the forefront, not just as soldiers, but as sons, brothers, and friends, embodying the spirit of sacrifice and dedication.
May their memories be a blessing and a guiding light for us all.
Operational Updates
Before I begin today’s update, an important reminder: Hamas is wholly responsible for the security of all hostages in the Gaza Strip. By continuing to hold hostages Hamas is endangering their lives and they must be held responsible for their safe return.
At the time of publication, two Israeli hostages were released and returned home to Israel tonight. Mia Shem, 21, and Amit Soussana, 40, have been reunited with their families after 55 days in captivity.
An additional 16 hostages were brought back to Israel on Wednesday night, including 12 Israelis and 4 Thai citizens.
Humanitarian aid continues to go into Gaza. Today, COGAT facilitated the entry of four ambulances donated by Saudi Arabia into the Gaza Strip via the Rafah Crossing.
Today, three Israelis were murdered and six wounded in a shooting attack in Jerusalem. The terrorists were neutralized at the scene of the attack. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we pray for a full recovery for the wounded.
In the north, the IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted a suspicious aerial target that crossed from Lebanon into Israeli territory.
A Personal Message Regarding Civilians in Gaza
Quote of the Day
“Right now, UN Women has launched a campaign to fight against gender based violence, called “No Excuses”. Yet, when it comes to the women and girls being held by Hamas and other terror groups in Gaza, there has been silence.
There is no excuse for silence.
People who care about women’s rights, children’s rights, human rights, the future of humanity, should show it. Speak up! Demand the Red Cross see them. Speak up! Demand their immediate release. Demand the immediate release of all our hostages.”
- R. Adm. Daniel Hagari, IDF Spokesperson
What I’m Reading
Who the Israelis Are Releasing in Return for Hamas’s Hostages - WSJ
The souls of these special, brave and dedicated young men, are revealed in the best way by these moving letters. Their sense of purpose and readiness for sacrifice is clear, and they seem so mature in comparison to their years. may their memories be a blessing.
Thank you for your insightful writings. Know that you and the IDF are not alone. It's always the vocal minority that capture the headlines. But they are just that -- a minority. They are the Left's useful idiots. America is full of mature, moral adults who are solidly behind the IDF and Israel. People that would never protest in support of hamas or islamic jihad. We are people that look on with disgust and pity at these poor fools who are shills for the cause of the day. God bless Israel. God bless the IDF. God bless the United States of America.