Dybeker, Ezra

Son of Simcha and Yitzhak, he was born on January 4, 1959, in the city of Bombay, India. Ezra immigrated to Israel with his family in 1966. The family settled in Be’er Sheva, and Ezra began his studies at the Talmim elementary school in the city and was a good student, After completing his studies in elementary school, he was accepted to the boarding school of the religious youth village in Kfar Hasidim, where he studied for two years, and Ezra was also an outstanding athlete, and was awarded certificates for his participation in competitions in light athletics. Ezra was drafted into the IDF in early 1976 and volunteered to serve in the Golani Brigade. After basic training he underwent a rifle course, a course for infantry commanders, a battalion training course and a liaison course, and at the end was promoted to the rank of sergeant and was appointed as a company commander. He took part with his brigade in Operation Litani, and was decorated with the “Operational Service”. Ezra loved army life and took pride in his service. His home contains multiple albums, in which his military service is documented in pictures and text. In his discharge certificate, his behavior was described as “very good,” and his commanders’ assessment of his service was “A dedicated and responsible soldier, neat and clean, demonstrating professionalism; an organized, and disciplined soldier.” Immediately after his release from the army, Ezra was hired for work at Beit HaChayal in Be’er Sheva. He was devoted to work, progressing well and was respected by his co-workers and superiors. In early 1982 Ezra met Rina of Dimona. The two spent time together, phoned each other, and planned to build a common future for them. About a month after the outbreak of the Peace for Galilee war, Ezra was called up for active reserve duty and was sent to Lebanon. On 1 Av, July 21, 1982, Sgt. Ezra fell in combat in Lebanon and was brought to rest at the military cemetery in Be’er Sheva, leaving behind his parents, sister and two brothers. In his letter of condolence to the family, his commander wrote “He was outstanding in his role and devotion to his friends and spiritually, Ezra was loved and accepted by his friends, excelled in his humility and peace of mind he kept at all times.” His parents set up a memorial plaque in the shape of the Ten Commandments in his memory in the “Magen Avraham” Synagogue in Be’er Sheva.