Roiz, Avraham Zvi

Son of Yitzchak and Bluma. He was born on the 15th of Adar 2, March 26, 1948 in Chadera. Because he was well developed both intellectually and physically, he was one of the outstanding students in his class. Avraham continued high school in the Kalai High School and completed his studies in the biological track. He was a member of the Hanoar Haoved movement until he reached the twelfth grade. He enlisted in the IDF in February 1966. After completing basic training, Avraham was sent to a squad commander’s course. Thus, less than a year later, Avraham became an officer. During the Six-Day War, Avraham was a platoon commander on the northern axis in Sinai and two months later became deputy. He filled most of his duties on the banks of the canal. He was modest by mature, and at home he did not tell of his actions in the army. He was a good fighter and a devoted officer. One of his soldiers wrote: “He was like a father to us.” When asked once why he does not come home more often, he replied: “I have married soldiers in the ward and they deserve more.” But once, on a patrol on the banks of the canal in the half-track, near Port Tawfiq, he hit a mine and two days later, died of his wounds, on the 3rd of Kislev, November 24, 1968. His endurance was remarkable and, consciously, he would not sigh at any complaint. On the contrary, he always accepted those who came to him with a smile and if he could speak, he did not prevent his critics from saying a good word. He was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Kiryat Shaul. The commander of his unit wrote to his family in his condolence letter, among other things: “His comrades and subordinates admired his toughness in times of danger and his courage during an onslaught. We remember Avraham as a dedicated and loyal commander who cared first and foremost for the soldiers and then for himself. Exactly a year ago we were under his command in one of the outposts along the Suez Canal. For almost half a year we lived there in harsh conditions, but he never lost his spirit, and always strengthened and encouraged and maintained a high military readiness.