Ratz, Gabriel (Gabi)
Son of Shimshon and Dina. Born on 28.11.1.57 in Rishon Letzion with his twin brother, Michael, he spent his childhood in this city, where he completed the Habib elementary school, despite the difficult financial situation at home. But had to move to another boarding school at the Johanna Jabotinsky Youth Village, where he studied for two more years. Afterward, he moved to a vocational school in Holon, because he had to learn a trade so that he could help support the family. Gabi was a nice and lively lad. His well-groomed beard even gave him a pre-matriculation certificate. Prior to his recruitment, he worked for a short time at Bank Leumi in Tel Aviv and managed to integrate well into banking work. But he did not see her as his future. Gabriel was drafted into the IDF in mid-November 1975. After basic training, he was assigned to the Signal Corps. He successfully completed a wireless course and was assigned as an operator to a liaison battalion. During his service, he was trained in combat and truck driving. He fulfilled his duties to the best and to the satisfaction of his commanders, and was chosen to be among the marching soldiers of the Signal Corps in the Jerusalem march of 1977. In recognition of his dedicated work, Gabi was promoted to the rank of corporal. On the 18th of Tevet 5768 (2.1.1788) Gabriel fell during his service. He was laid to rest in the cemetery in Rishon Letzion. Survived by his parents, brother and sister. In a letter of condolence to the bereaved family, his commander said: “Gabriel was a favorite of his comrades and commanders, he was a disciplined devoted soldier and always ready to help others.” After his death, he wrote to the family, the principal of the Haviv school where he studied: “… Gabi excelled as a pleasant young man, disciplined, fulfilled his duties, accepted by society, alert and active.
