Benjayat, Ephraim
Son of Elas and Yitzhak, was born on July 21, 1964 in Holon to parents who survived the Holocaust. From the moment he came into the world, his parents tried to give him all the things that had been avoided in their childhood. Effi was a “sabra,” but he did not have the prickly thorns that are characteristic of the sabra. Even in his childhood, he had his special qualities, especially in his relations with those around him – family and strangers. He hurt the pain of the handicapped, the old and the weak. At any time, he was willing to help them, and his only reward was the smile he saw on their faces. Effi began studying at the Sirkin Elementary School in Holon and continued at the Ankori High School in Tel Aviv. At that time, he was already a member of the Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed movement, and he invested his best time and energies in the various activities of the youth movement. Effi also participated in the Karate course, and reached the rank of black belt. He also dealt with other sports, such as swimming and judo, and also contributed to the Civil Guard. Despite all these social and sporting activities, Effi finished high school with honors. When his time for enlistment approached, Effi wanted to volunteer for an elite unit, but his strong ties with the core members of the youth movement tipped the scales in favor of the Nahal. Indeed, in October 1982, he went with his friends to the nucleus “Einot” for a period of service in Kibbutz Ein Gedi. The kibbutz expressed its great love for the country and its landscapes. Every stone, plant and animal he discovered was an exciting experience of invaluable value. At the same time, AFI developed a sense of responsibility for the peace and security of the country, especially under the influence of the Peace for Galilee War. Throughout this period, Efi maintained close contact with his parents and with his family. He has demonstrated great maturity – motivation and ambition along with responsibility and concern. After basic training, Effi went on a combat paramedics course, and at the end of the course was sent to the Hermon summit to serve as a paramedic. In this role too, he proved his devotion to his friends and all those around him. He had made his last vacation at home because he had made sure his replacement friend could also enjoy a vacation. On the 28th of Sivan 5743 (May 30, 1983), Ephraim fell during his service and was brought to eternal rest in the military cemetery in Holon. He left behind his parents and brother
