Sergeant Yonatan Ankonina
Yonatan was to have completed his military service two weeks ago and return to his studies at the yeshiva. But due to the war, his service was lengthened. “Two weeks ago, he came home for a 24-hour leave,” said a friend, “and told us that it was frightening in Lebanon, but that if he had to die, he would rather do so to sanctify G-d’s name protecting his people and his country rather than be hit by a missile somewhere. It was as if he knew that his time was running out.” Another friend, Ido Sitbon, said that, “Yonatan was in touch with everyone. He always wanted us to be a united nation irrespective of political or religious opinions. He was always trying to bridge different groups. Today, people are coming from all different groups to bury him.” “He was always smiling,” added Sitbon. “He was always willing to help, everyone’s friend. No one disliked him at all. If two of his friends argued, he would always separate them and bring them to a compromise. He glowed with peace and always made things better so that everyone could smile again.”
Yonatan was killed in battle in Southern Lebanon on August 12, 2006. He was 21 years old.
Yonatan was killed in battle in Southern Lebanon on August 12, 2006. He was 21 years old.