Ben-Shitrit, Eliyahu

Eliyahu, son of Miriam and Adar, was born on March 16, 1953, in Jerusalem. He attended the “Neve Yaakov” elementary school, continued his studies at the Porat Yosef School, and at the “Ir Ganim” school in Jerusalem and later completed his studies at the Boyar High School in the real-biological track. Eliahu was a diligent student, loved by his teachers and friends. He loved to swim and was very active in his spare time. At school he was a member of the drama club and was praised for his acting talent. Elijah was quiet and a little shy. He would always smile and had a sense of humor. He was friendly, loved by his many friends, honest and conscientious, a loyal son of his parents and devoted to his family. Eliahu was drafted into the Israel Defense Forces in mid-August 1971 and was sent to the Golani Brigade after completing his basic training course in a course for radio operators, And a course for counselors. In this course, he excelled and was offered to stay and guide him, but he refused and volunteered to serve in the Shaked unit. He was a soldier who was responsible and dedicated to his job and was always ready to help his friends, with deeds and encouragement. He was awarded the Operational Service Award for his part in operational activities. Elijah was a devoted son to his parents. He tried not to worry them and often wrote home, but in his many letters, he did not mention at all about the arduous training and the risk involved in his activities. After completing his army service, he was scheduled to study at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. When the Yom Kippur War broke out Eliyahu served in Sinai. On October 6, 1973, during the first hour of the war, he stood guard at the base between the Mitla Pass and the Suez Canal, and suddenly the base was attacked from the air, and Eliyahu was hit and killed while carrying out his duties. In his letter of condolence to the bereaved family, his commander wrote: “His willingness to help his friends, even if it was not convenient for him personally, made him beloved of his subordinates and commanders. He did not disagree with the orders given to him and they were able to rely on him in every field. “The headquarters of the Shaked Reconnaissance Unit published a booklet in memory of its fallen soldiers, including Eliyahu, whose school established a scholarship fund for outstanding students.