Santo, Tommy (Nattan)

Son of Bella and Frederica. He was born on the 21st of Shevat, January 23, 1946 in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. He finished primary grades 1 through 5 in Hungary, and then immigrated to Israel in 1957, with his parents and siblings. In Israel, he completed his elementary studies in Chadera, at the “Eyron” school in the “Youth Aliyah” program. He graduated from high school at the same school. In his work and studies, he excelled, and was admired by his teachers and friends. He was known for his kindness and his humility. After completing high school, he postponed his enlistment for a year to come to his parents’ aid, because of his great devotion to them. He was drafted into the IDF in August 1965, sent to a squad commander’s course, and for a certain period, commanded a class. He was also sent to an officers’ course. After completing his compulsory service, he signed up for permanent service for at least three years. He died on the 8th of Tevet, December 29, 1968. He left behind a wife. He was laid to rest in the military cemetery, in Kiryat Shaul. In his letter of condolence to his wife, the commander wrote, among other things, “The amazing dedication of your husband Tommy, the command and leadership… Tommy was a member of a group of commanders who headed at times of calm and battle … Today, I feel that together we all belong to the same bereaved family. “