Saluting Maj. Harel Birenstock z"l

Major Harel Birenstock z"l, Commander of Company A "Lions" in the 28th Battalion of the 55th Brigade, fell in operational combat in southern Lebanon on August 5th, approximately one month ago. Throughout the long months of the war, Harel led his soldiers across the Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria fronts, driven by a profound sense of mission, dedication, and a presence filled with an enduring smile and extraordinary vitality. His troops knew a leader who truly saw each of them down to the smallest detail—he moved mountains for their well-being and basic needs, even reaching out directly to their civilian employers so they could focus on the mission with peace of mind. Harel carried the immense weight of command with uplifting spirit—a leader designated to become the next battalion commander and a true anchor for everyone around him. Throughout three intense years of war—from October 7th until today—the weight of service was borne with quiet heroism by Harel’s family: his wife, Eliya, and their four children—twins Ori and Gefen (8), Maayan (5), and Ziv-Israel (1.5). Guided by wholehearted faith in Harel’s mission and an understanding of this pivotal moment for the people of Israel, Eliya and the children carried the toll of his service and sacrifice with profound strength and grace. Now, out of deep gratitude and a shared determination to stand by the family that gave everything, this is our opportunity to give back to Eliya and the children. This campaign is dedicated to providing them with a strong, stable, and supportive foundation moving forward—honoring Harel’s ultimate sacrifice for us all and keeping his memory alive.