Gabbai, Kobi Yaakov

Ben Hanna and Mordechai. He was born on August 25, 1973, in Carmiel. The youngest son in a family of three. Kobi attended the “Eshkol” elementary school and the mechanics and machinery program at the Ort Horowitz High School in Karmiel. Already in elementary school, Kobi acquired many friends and was very popular in society. “You have a strong will and effort, you did not give up any details and you ‘danced’ to us, the teachers, until you understood everything, you were honest and you always were willing to help everyone. “You have set a goal – to reach the level of maturity, to succeed and to prove to you and to all those around you that you will meet the task and nothing will be an obstacle to you. Kobi was a member of the Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed movement as an apprentice and counselor. He was a sports fan. At the age of twelve he practiced Karate, but mostly excelled in swimming and was accepted to the swimming team of “Hapoel” Karmiel. Kobi volunteered to guide youth at the community club in his neighborhood. During his high school years he met new friends, he had many friends, until he met his girlfriend Karen, who accompanied him until his dying day. He spent a lot of time with her and his friends, and had plenty of joy in life. “Your attitude towards life was easier, less serious, live the moment and enjoy life, and in your short life you have enjoyed quite a lot, and my heart is filled with joy.” Kobi’s great ambition was to be a combat soldier and especially to be accepted into the Paratroopers Brigade. Thanks to his strong will, he succeeded in realizing this dream. At the beginning of August 1991, Koby enlisted in the IDF and volunteered for the Paratroopers Brigade. His commander said: “Kobi was not easy, but his strong desire and high motivation helped him finish the course, stand at the graduation ceremony and expose the green background under the wings of the jump.” As part of his training, he joined the company in operational security in the Lebanese security zone. During an encounter with terrorists, his company commander, the platoon commander, and a combat soldier were killed and his comrades were wounded. Kobi rushed to their aid and gave them the necessary treatment. On Wednesday, May 24, 1993, Koby fell in battle in Lebanon and was put to rest in the military section of the Karmiel cemetery, leaving behind his parents, sister Dina and brother Ami. Koby went out on every mission with a smile on his face, and he was enthusiastic about choosing the tool he would navigate that day, and at each stop, short or long, Kobi diligently took care of the vessel, checked its health and fitness. I will always remember your thin body, the smile and the enthusiasm, I will remember the perseverance and the ability, the high professionalism. Always, Hmskian of the company. ” His friends dedicated a forest plot in the Oranim Forest in Carmiel to his memory, including a monument in his memory.