Joseph Gitarts Foundation

In Loving Memory of Sgt. First Class Joseph Gitarts z’’l 18.04.1998 - 25.12.2023 Sgt. First Class Joseph Gitarts, a 25-year-old reservist in the IDF’s 7029th Armored Battalion, has fallen in the battle on December 25, 2023, when an anti-tank missile struck the tank he was driving in southern Gaza. Joseph, an American-Israeli from Tel Aviv, was not just a soldier, he was a talented researcher and a visionary. A passionate Computer Science student at Reichman University, Joseph co-authored several academic papers in the field of longevity, driven by his dream to improve health through AI and biotech. His entrepreneurial mind envisioned a mission of his future-startup as “.. to contribute to the fight against aging and disease through technology”, as Joseph wrote on his LinkedIn page. Joseph and his parents immigrated to Israel when he was 14, and he started to attend the American International School. Though he was initially drafted for non-combat duty, Joseph felt a higher calling. He insisted on serving as a combat soldier in the Armored Corps, driven by his deep sense of duty and love for Israel. After completing his active service in 2021, he focused on his studies at Reichman, excelling as an honors student and serving as a class representative. Joseph called up to join the reserve duty on October 8, and spent six weeks training with his unit. As the day approached for his battalion to enter Gaza, Joseph prepared a letter for his family, to be delivered in case he did not return. In a Google document, split between his girlfriend abroad and his brother in Israel, he wrote to his parents: "Dear Mom and Dad, I love you very much. Everything is as it’s supposed to be. I chose this path. I had a good and fulfilling life, and I was never afraid of death. I could have avoided reserve duty, but that would go against everything I believe in. I had no choice—I stood by my decision to the end. I fell proudly, for the sake of my people. I have no regrets." "You have given me so much. I had an interesting, happy, and unique life. My death only highlights that. I know your pain is great, but I believe you will find the strength to manage it. Surround yourselves with loved ones. Help Israel. I am okay.” In honor of Joseph’s legacy, we have established the Joseph Gitarts Memorial Fund, dedicated to bringing his vision to life. All funds raised will support researchers advancing breakthroughs in biotechnology and AI, fields Joseph believed could change the future of human health. Additionally, scholarships will be awarded to outstanding students at Reichman University’s Computer Science faculty, ensuring that Joseph’s dreams continue to inspire the next generation. Joseph’s story is tragically not unique. He is one of many young lives taken by war, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of their loved ones. While we cannot bring them back, we can take steps to honor their dreams. Join us in supporting Joseph’s vision, one small step toward a brighter future. “To Be Opened If…” Brings Joseph Gitarts’ Story to U.S. Film Festivals The documentary joins the Utopia Film Festival 2026 program in Maryland and the Fear Fame Film Festival’s official selections. October 17, 2026, 10am— The Joseph Gitarts Foundation is pleased to announce that To Be Opened If…, directed by Ann Epshtein Rudnitsky, will be screened at the 2026 Utopia Film Festival in Greenbelt, Maryland, USA. The film is also among the official selections of the Fear Fame Film Festival. Utopia takes place October 17–18, with the film scheduled for the Saturday, October 17, 10 a.m.–noon screening block. Before heading into battle in Gaza, Joseph Gitarts, a 25-year-old Russian Israeli from Tel Aviv, left behind a letter to be opened if he did not return. Through footage he filmed himself in Gaza, personal archives and the voices of those who loved him, To Be Opened If… attempts to bring a young man back to life on screen. Joseph was a talented researcher and computer science student at Reichman University who dreamed of using artificial intelligence and biotechnology to fight aging and disease. He was killed in combat on December 25, 2023. These festival selections bring Joseph’s story to new audiences, sharing his life, aspirations and the legacy his family is working to carry forward. Established in his memory, the Joseph Gitarts Foundation supports emerging researchers in longevity, biotechnology and AI, alongside scholarships for outstanding computer science students at Reichman University. Join us at a screening and support the filmmakers bringing Joseph’s story to the world. Wherever you are, you can also help carry his vision forward by donating to the Joseph Gitarts Foundation. Utopia Film Festival — schedule and tickets Fear Fame Film Festival — official selections Donate to support Joseph’s vision Major Gifts: For those interested in making major gifts above $5,000 or 20,000 NIS please click here for instructions. For inquiries please contact Nina Verzhbolovich: nverzhbolovich@gmail.com