Derzy, Benjamin (‘Benny’)

Son of Shaul and Sa’ida. He was born on September 22, 1959 in Tel Hanan. He completed six years of schooling at the Tel-Hanan State elementary school and completed another three years of schooling in junior high school at the Givat Nesher school. He then went on to study car mechanics at the Nesher plant in Haifa for one year. In the time he remained until his induction, he worked in various fields of automotive mechanics. He was a devoted son of his family, used to help with household chores, and earned a living by helping his family carry the burden of the household agriculture. Shortly before his induction, he took a driver’s course and was allowed to be a truck driver. Benyamin was drafted into the IDF in April 1977 and assigned to the Armored Corps, and after completing his basic training, he underwent a course for caterpillar drivers and was assigned to an armored brigade as a driver. He was a good soldier, dedicated and faithful, and he fulfilled his duty with responsibility and precision to the satisfaction of his commanders. In his unit he was loved by his friends and commanders for his good character, honesty, and willingness to help others. On the 13th of Shevat 5739 (February 9, 1979), Benjamin fell in the line of duty. He was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Haifa. Survived by his parents and three brothers. In a letter of condolence to the bereaved family, his commander wrote: “We loved my son because of his dedication, the way he used to help others and to fulfill their duties, as a loyal follower of his brother, IDF graduates. In the last chapter he had been waiting anxiously for a special holiday which he had been permitted to take, and where he wanted to rest a bit of his work and help his mother, who was so waiting for him … “