Goldstein (Gidron), Yochanan

Yochanan, son of Lizta and Abraham, was born on 21.2.1949 in Haifa. Yohanan was drafted into the IDF at the beginning of August 1967. After basic training, he took part in the course for commanders and was one of the outstanding students in the course. After completing his course, he became a guide. Some time before he was released from regular service, he took a course in 120mm mortar rounds. He was a responsible and dedicated soldier, and served as an example to his friends for his kindness and readiness for every effort. One of his subordinates testifies that “he always took care of everyone and encouraged everyone, and the smile never left his lips.” “He was standing beside his friends in a time of trouble, as if he were Simcha,” he said, adding that he was very fond of his subordinates and always listened to his friends. In his discharge certificate, his commanders wrote: “His behavior is very good, he is a disciplined soldier, who performs all his duties with great devotion and efficiency, to the satisfaction of his superiors.” When the Yom Kippur War broke out, he was drafted and sent to the Sinai front with his unit. During the war he tried not to worry his parents, and made sure to contact them whenever he could. On the 18th of Tishrei 5734 (October 14, 1973), in the harsh, stubborn and cruel battle against the boldness of “Yoram” near the Blues, Yochanan fell. While the Egyptians wanted to encircle the northern shoreline and the frenzy cried out for help, the best mortar battery in the area, to which John was responsible, was sent. His unit stood and fought with its mortars in dozens of tanks and armored vehicles that boarded the outpost. Even after his crew had three fighters, Yohanan decided to continue fighting. When he said, “We continue,” he was hit and killed. At that very moment, a decisive turning point took place during the battle, and the Egyptians began to retreat. John was the last space in that sector. Survived by his mother, father and sister. After his fall, he was promoted to First Sergeant.