Yifrach, Albert (Avraham)
Son of Aziza and David. Born in 1950 in Casablanca, Morocco. Albert was the youngest son of eight. In the summer of 1956, the family immigrated to Israel and settled in Moshav Maona. He was a very dominant figure in society, often laughing and, willingly, helping all his friends. In his family photographs, the abundant love for his nephews can be seen. In early February 1968, Albert enlisted in compulsory service and was assigned to the Border Police. He was transferred to the Beit Shean sector, which was the “hot” sector at the time. His comrades in the unit said that he fulfilled his duties perfectly and that he would gladly and willingly deal with every mission. Albert had the ability to embrace and encourage his friends. During vacations, everyone would gather in his house and draw strength from the joy he had placed on his surroundings. Albert returned to the base full of apprehension, but always felt that it was his duty to the state and fulfilled his mission wholeheartedly and proudly. At that time, his sister, Aviva, also served in the IDF, and in conversations he conducted, Albert expressed his feeling that the worst would come. He volunteered to stay at the base to allow a reservist celebrate his birthday. On November 1, 1968, while on a motorized patrol on the Jordanian border, six soldiers were injured. Albert was critically wounded and transferred to the “Poriya” hospital for treatment. He was killed in the course of duty on the 13th of Cheshvan, November 4, 1968. He was buried at the cemetery in Ma’a (now Ma’alot). He left behind his parents, three brothers, and four sisters. His commander, regional rabbis, the chairman of the Ma’ale Hagalil Regional Council and the local people, and three members of the unit fired three salutes in his honor.
