Ezra, Jacob

Son of Klara and Nissim, was born on February 27, 1959, in Herzliya. Yaakov attended elementary and junior high schools in Nof Yam. He then moved to the Ort vocational school in Herzliya, where he completed his high school studies in the electrical track. Jacob’s hobbies were varied. He liked reading, especially science fiction books, and his family defined him as a “reading patient.” In August 1977, Yaakov enlisted in the IDF and served in the Armored Corps, where he underwent basic basic training, and was sent to the tank driver course In November 1977, after completing the course, Yaakov was promoted to Corporal. Before he was discharged from regular service, he was promoted to sergeant. Yaakov was discharged in August 1980 and began working for IBM. On a working day, and at night he studied computer programs. When the Peace for Galilee War broke out, he was called up for reserve duty and was sent with his unit to the front in Lebanon. His battalion led the brigade’s forces to penetrate enemy systems in the area of ​​Lake Karagon. On June 10, 1982, a battle took place between the Syrian armor and the tank unit of Yaakov. He was the first to destroy a Syrian tank, but immediately afterwards his tank was hit and Yaakov was killed. He was 23 years old. He was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Herzliya. Yaakov left behind his parents, two brothers and a sister. Defense Minister Ariel Sharon wrote in a letter of condolence to his family: “Sergeant Ya’akov Ezra gave his life for his homeland, he served in the Armored Corps, he was a very devoted soldier to his friends and his job. The commander of his unit wrote to his family: “Your son fell to the south of Lake Karun, and Yaakov was a tank driver, a professional and devoted crew member who performed his tasks perfectly and was loved by all. We, his comrades-in-arms, will continue to defend the state and fortify its security with courage, sacrifice and faith, as your son did. ” In his honor, a study room was established in the Nof Yam school, where he studied.