‘He was always smiling’: Sister of fallen soldier Shachar Fridman on Israel’s Remembrance Day
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- The sister of fallen soldier Shachar Fridman shared personal reflections on his life and values during Israel's Remembrance Day.
- Shachar Fridman, who returned to service after October 7, was killed in combat in Gaza while protecting fellow soldiers.
- His sister described him as a "beacon of light" who lived by principles of kindness, empathy, and service to others, even in his final messages.
On Israel's Remembrance Day, the profound personal impact of the ongoing conflict is brought into sharp focus through stories like that of Shachar Fridman. His sister, Sahar Fridman Sierra, shared a deeply moving account of her brother, a soldier in the 101st Battalion of the Paratroopers Brigade, who exemplified the highest ideals of sacrifice and compassion. Shachar's decision to return to active duty after his release, answering his commander's call without hesitation, underscores the deep sense of duty and patriotism that defines so many of our young men and women.
a beacon of light, joy, and love for others
His death on November 18, 2023, while bravely fighting Hamas terrorists in northern Gaza, is a stark reminder of the heavy price being paid to protect our nation. Yet, Sahar's remembrance of Shachar is not solely defined by his final act of heroism, but by the consistent values that guided his life. She described him as a 'beacon of light, joy, and love for others,' whose open heart and concern for those around him were evident from his childhood through his military service.
We need to be good people. We need to smile. We need to see the people that nobody else sees. And to listen to other people in their sorrow.
Shachar's commitment to 'being good people,' 'seeing the people that nobody else sees,' and 'listening to other people in their sorrow' resonates deeply within Israeli society. These are not mere platitudes but the guiding principles that shape our communities and our soldiers. His dedication to helping children with special needs in the Bnei Akiva youth movement and his efforts to integrate them into activities reflect a profound empathy. These values, carried into his service, made him a supportive figure among his peers.
He was always smiling. He was always trying to make everyone laugh.
His final messages to loved ones, urging them to 'Be a good friend. Be a good son. Be a good citizen. Love everyone,' encapsulate his enduring spirit. The fact that even those who recovered his body noted he appeared to be smiling speaks volumes about his character. In a time of immense national grief, remembering soldiers like Shachar Fridman provides not only a tribute to their sacrifice but also an inspiration drawn from their unwavering commitment to humanity and service. His story, like so many others, is a testament to the resilience and spirit of Israel.
Be a good friend. Be a good son. Be a good citizen. Love everyone. See the people that nobody sees. Help them.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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