Memorial Observatory and Pool in Honor

Memorial Site in Honor ofBarel Haderia Shmueli, Uri Yitzhak Hadad, and Ron Kokia In the heart of Reihan Forest, overlooking the Israeli landscape that was so dear to Barel, Uri, and Ron, a unique memorial site is being established — a space of connection, giving, and remembrance. This open and welcoming place is intended for all visitors: families, children, and individuals, honoring the legacy, values, and lives of three remarkable heroes. Who Are Our Heroes?Barel Haderia Shmueli A devoted fighter in the Border Police undercover unit, who fell in combat in the Gaza sector on August 30, 2021, at the age of 21. Barel was a gifted young man, an outstanding soccer player, charismatic, and a natural leader — always the first to extend a helping hand. He believed deeply in giving, human connection, and love of the land. In his final words, he wrote: ““There is nothing I regret having done in my life… There is no one happier than me to have been granted the privilege of defending the State of Israel.”” Uri Yitzhak Hadad A fighter in Battalion 931 of the Nahal Brigade, who fell in the southern Gaza Strip on July 1, 2024, at the age of 21. Uri was a “ray of light” to everyone around him — joyful, smiling, filled with kindness and love for people and for the land. He initiated community projects for at-risk youth, supported cancer patients and their families, and left behind a legacy of giving, quiet leadership, and care for others. Ron Kokia A Nahal Brigade fighter, who was killed in a terrorist attack in Arad on November 30, 2017, at the age of 19. Ron was known for his “heart of gold” — humble, humorous, a lover of sports and music, always attentive, compassionate, and ready to help. Even after his passing, his family continued his path of giving by donating his corneas, saving lives and creating continuity beyond loss. Vision and Components of the SiteThe memorial is designed as a living garden of remembrance and values, integrating nature, education, and experience for all ages. Its main elements include: • A central memorial monument honoring the heroes, symbolizing their shared values: determination, devotion, love of humanity, and love of the land. • A Garden of Valor with native Israeli fruit trees and natural woodland — pistacia, oaks, and local fruit trees — creating a green, educational environment. • A natural pool and wading area, offering tranquility and calm, symbolizing life, growth, and water — a core value in Israeli culture. • Two scenic lookouts equipped with binoculars and panoramic landscape maps, overlooking Reihan Forest and its surroundings, which the heroes loved and defended. • A children’s playground, fostering joy, family connection, and the transmission of values such as giving, commitment, and love of the land from an early age. • Seating areas and accessible pathways, allowing visitors of all ages and abilities to connect with nature and the heroes’ stories. • Memorial panels and living narratives, sharing their life stories, values, and insights, enabling visitors to learn, reflect, and connect. Purpose of the MemorialOur goal is to create a living space of remembrance that combines nature, leisure, and education. The site will serve as a living testament to the legacy of Barel, Uri, and Ron, allowing visitors to learn about their lives, be moved by their stories, and embrace the values they embodied: giving, love for humanity, devotion to the country, and love of the land. As Barel himself said: ““I ask of you… to step more into the light. Truly see who you are, because that truly matters.”” Through this memorial site, we seek to illuminate the heroes’ lives and values — a place where life, giving, and remembrance coexist, inspiring generations to come. Join us — through donation, volunteering, or visiting — and help create a place where legacy lives, teaches, and connects.