Remember Ilay David Garfinkel z"l

About the ProjectStaff Sergeant Ilay David Garfinkel, of blessed memoryFell heroically in battle on the 12th of Adar II, 5784 (March 22, 2024) Commando fighter in "Duvdevan" unit establishing of a community space in his memory and spiritAs we mark one year without our Ilay, we are launching a special project: the creation of a community space in Sitria. Our goal is to create a place for communal gathering—a space that fosters dialogue and learning among people of all backgrounds, a space of music, joy, and connection. A place that will shine and share Ilay’s unique spirit with everyone who visits, now and in the future, in his own words: "...Self-refinement, ethics, self-improvement. It's not something that comes easily. It mustn’t be taken for granted..." A bit about Ilay...Son of Omer and Shirley, eldest brother to Yonatan, Naama, Adi, Hillel, Avigail, Bania, and Shira. Partner to Eli. A grandson, a friend, and a leader. Ilay grew up in Moshav Sitria, a fourth-generation member of the community. He was a constantly smiling child—funny and beloved by all. Ilay embodied a rare combination of values and traits: love for others, devotion to family, compassion, humility, love of the land and its heritage, deep wisdom, courage, and a profound sense of responsibility. Over the years, wherever he went, he was a ray of light, a source of inspiration, and a fountain of kindness. He was a devoted son to his parents and family, regularly visiting his grandparents, helping, supporting, listening, being present, and playing with his younger siblings—regardless of their age. Ilay was a soulful friend who knew how to create space for others and played a meaningful role in the lives of childhood friends and many others he met along the way. He was deeply involved in social and educational activities at his regional school and his local "Shevet" (Scout group). He expressed his love for music through his home drum set—and any surface that could be drummed on. After high school, he joined the "Nofei Prat" pre-army academy, followed by significant military service. In recent years, he was a loving partner to Eli, and together they embodied what people call a “match made in heaven.” Ilay had a remarkable ability to be fully present—bringing with him his quiet strength, humble charm, and captivating spirit—wherever he was and with whomever he met. He combined deep attentiveness and sensitivity with wisdom and a touch of humor. This is how he touched so many hearts—through sincerity, depth, and a noble and gentle spirit that inspired others to follow his lead. Ilay first enlisted in the Air Force pilot course but, determined to fulfill his dream, transferred to the Duvdevan unit, where he served in Team 50 and later became a training sergeant. When the "Swords of Iron" war broke out, he fought on various fronts alongside his comrades and was among the first to volunteer for every mission—carrying them out with immense dedication and a deep sense of purpose, even though he was fully aware of the dangers involved. After his death, his family and Eli found the following words he left for them: "I didn’t leave anything behind, but I just wanted you to know that my love for you all was infinite throughout my entire life. In every moment and every breath, you were with me. Our bond was so strong that I will always be with you—no matter what. And I was happy with every step I took in fulfilling this privilege—to do something pure and worthy for you, for all the heroes of Israel above, and for all of the people of Israel and the eternal ideal of this land and nation, which is worth living and dying for." On the morning of March 22, 2024, on the eve of Purim celebrations, a terrorist took position near a school bus route at the Parsa Junction near Dolev, and began firing. Alongside the forces that had been operating since the beginning of the incident, the Duvdevan unit was called into action in the late morning hours. During the mission briefing, the commander explained that all options had been exhausted—including aerial warfare—but that there were no magic solutions. The task of neutralizing the terrorist was now in their hands. In the delicate silence that followed, Ilay was heard quietly whispering with his familiar modest smile, almost to himself: "We are the magic solution." Those were his final words. Ilay fought and was killed in battle, defending the land he so deeply loved. Join us in this project and help us breathe new life into the place where Ilay grew up—reviving it in his image, because of him, and for him. Together, let’s create a vibrant space for the public to enjoy among the landscapes of Sitria, with sitting areas, conversation corners, an amphitheater, and more. Together, we will honor and preserve the extraordinary personality and spirit of Ilay.