Shay Levinson
Shay Levinson
19
Sgt. Maj. Shay Levinson, 19, from Givat Avni.
Shay Levinson, a dual citizen of Germany and Israel from Givat Avni in the Lower Galilee, serves as a perfect example of the spirit of peace and coexistence with the Arab community. An excellent student at the prestigious "Kadoorie" school, Shay also excelled as a key player on the volleyball team of the Arab village Eilabun in the Galilee, where he was celebrated for his commitment to unity, bridging communities, and fostering harmonious relations.
During his military service, Shay served on Battalion 77 of the Golan Heights Storm Formation (7), and was stationed near the Gaza border. Tragically, on the morning of October 7, Shay was abducted by Hamas terrorists into the Gaza Strip, initially declared missing before being confirmed as a captive. In a show of solidarity and support, the Arab sector volleyball team he was a part of rallied for his release, reflecting the deep ties Shay and his family had with the Eilabun club. Samaan Samaan, the team's coach, voiced the community's united hope for Shay's safe return, emphasizing Shay's integral role in the team and the village of Eilabun's collective yearning for his well-being.
It was three months after that fateful Saturday, that Shay's family was informed of the heartbreaking news of his death during the surprise attack by Hamas, with Hamas holding his body in the Gaza Strip. As a tank commander, Shay valiantly engaged terrorists with shell fire. Despite their initial success in defeating the attackers, a subsequent wave of terrorists, armed with anti-tank missiles, overwhelmed Shay's tank, leading to the demise of its entire crew, including Shay, loader Ofir Testa, and gunner Ariel Eliyahu.
The community of Givat Avni was immersed in deep sorrow upon learning of Shay's passing. His family described the ensuing three months of sleepless nights and unending anxiety, underpinned by Shay's lifelong aspiration to defend his country—a dream for which he ultimately gave his life.
Ben Levinson, reflecting on his brother's character, highlighted Shay's sociability, humility, and excellence in academics and sports. Shay's determination to serve in a combat role, despite eligibility concerns due to a vision condition, exemplified his selflessness and dedication. “I couldn't have asked for a better brother. He was perhaps the best person I've ever known, I miss him and it's not easy." Ben shared, with love and longing.
Ben's tribute underscored the depth of his loss, while firmly stating his opposition to endangering lives for the return of Shay's remains from Gaza.
The Levinson family chose to sit Shiva, seeking to bring closure and a definitive end to this chapter. Sitting Shiva with no burial is viewed as a gesture for all whose lives Shay enriched, for his friends and family, and for every community Shay was a part of.
Honor the memory of Shay
Shay was kidnapped by Hamas, and later his family was informed that he was killed in battle.
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