Ilani, Amatzia

Amatzia, son of Yehudit and Yehuda Aryeh, was born on June 14, 1954, in Bnei Brak. He studied at the Shaar Yashuv and Segula elementary schools in Bnei Brak. Afterward, he studied at the “Nahal Yitzhak” high school in Moshav Nahalim near Petah Tikva, and finally attended the Har Etzion hesder yeshiva in Gush Etzion. In his studies, Amazia stood out as a diligent student, with a sharp mind and analytical ability. He was a member of the Bnei Akiva movement and of Gesher. He was loved by his teachers, and friends for being sociable and for his willingness to always help his friends. He was honest and conscientious, a loyal and devoted son to his parents and family. Amatzia was drafted into the IDF at the end of July 1972 and assigned to the Nahal Brigade with his friends from hesder yeshivas. In the army, he stood out as an excellent soldier, loved by his friends and devoted to his job. He was sent on behalf of the Chief Rabbinate to serve as a Chazan in the Suez Canal and was sent to the “Budapest” stronghold When the news was received about the Egyptians’ intention to attack, he shortened the Yom Kippur prayer and went out to help prepare for the war. October 6, 1973, at 2 PM, the Maoz was shelled severely. The soldiers of the stronghold, with their efforts, left the bunker and returned mortar fire. Amaziah the first of the soldiers of the stronghold that fell, standing in the communication channel, was handing mortar shells to his friends. He was laid to rest in the military cemetery on Mount Herzl. Survived by father, mother, brother and sister. After his fall, he was promoted to Corporal. In the condolence letter to the bereaved family, his commander wrote that his efforts fulfilled his role in the battle with great courage, and his parents published a pamphlet in his memory, donated a Torah scroll to the synagogue and contributed to the establishment of a library in the synagogue.