Captain Eitan Israel Shkenazi z”l, the beloved son of Iren Sonia and Yosef, was born on February 7, 2000 (1st of Adar I, 5760) and raised in Hatzor HaGlilit.
He was a cherished brother to Yonatan, Sarah, Benjamin, and his twin brother Ronen,
After completing his studies in Hatzor HaGlilit, Eitan attended the Bnei David pre-military academy in Eli. He enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces on March 29, 2020, beginning his service as a combat soldier and later distinguishing himself as an outstanding officer in the Nahal Brigade Reconnaissance Unit.
On January 6, 2025 (6 Tevet, 5785), at the age of 24, Captain Eitan fell in battle in Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip. He was laid to rest in the military section of the cemetery in Hatzor HaGlilit.
Captain Eitan Israel Shkenazi z”l embodied the true essence of an IDF soldier and commander — not only through his bravery on the battlefield, but above all through his humility, devotion, and faith.
He was raised on the values of love of the land of Israel, Torah observance and a profound sense of responsibility toward others.
During his military service, Eitan married his beloved wife, Hillel. He was a devoted partner who built a warm and loving home while fully committed to his role as a combat officer. In Hillel’s words during her eulogy: “You always knew why you were fighting. You told me, ‘Just a little more, and we will free the hostages.’ You said that people forget the hostages — and you fought in Gaza to bring them back.”
Eitan fell in Beit Hanoun during a fierce battle when an explosive device struck his unit. He was killed alongside his commander and close friend, Major Dvir Zion Revach z”l.
At his funeral, his father, Yosef shared: “You told me, ‘At my wedding, I want to enter wearing my uniform — it is the most honorable suit in the world.’
He described Eitan as a precious gift: ‘He was always hugging and kissing. Thank you that I was privileged to have him.’”
Brigadier General Ilan Harari eulogized him saying: “You were a respected and admired commander. You led your soldiers with modesty and humility, and your professionalism was evident in everything you did. The IDF and the Nahal Brigade will carry your values forward educatingthe future generations in that light.”
Eitan fell on the Hebrew birthday of his older brother Yonatan, a paramedic and ambulance driver with Magen David Adom.
The family chose to continue Eitan’s legacy of service through the donation of a life-saving MDA ambulance.
Donate Now and Help Save Lives in Eitan’s Memory!
More About Eitan z”l:
Those who knew Eitan describe a young man whose quiet smile endured even in the most difficult moments. His humility always came before his rank, and his inner strength naturally inspired trust and loyalty.
He began his military journey as a combat soldier in the Commando Brigade, Egoz Unit, where his determination and leadership quickly stood out. His soldiers remember a commander with high personal standards , attentive and supportive toward each member of his unit.
Eitan believed that personal example is the most powerful tool of true leadership. He was always the first to enter a mission, never seeking honor for himself but saw the honor of his soldiers and his people as the ultimate purpose of service.
Captain Eitan Israel Shkenazi z”l fell as a hero, committed to his country, devoted to his people and the Torah, and blessed with an extraordinary personality — quiet, yet powerful. His legacy will continue to illuminate all those around him through his sacrifice, his pure spirit, and his determined action.
The legacy of Eitan Shkenazi is not only the personal story of a fallen soldier. It is a call to an entire generation to understand the meaning of true humility. In an era where admiration is often measured by external achievements, Eitan reminds us that genuine honor is built through devotion, faith, and connection to eternal values.
Eitan Israel Shkenazi will be remembered not only as a soldier who fell in battle, but as a man whose life was a model of dedication, humility, and love. His memory will continue to accompany his family, his friends, and the people of Israel, and will inspire generations to come.
Bank details for wire transfer:
Attn: Israeli Friends of MDA
BANK LEUMI LE-ISRAEL-B.M
Branch: YAD ELIYAHU 814
Address: 9 HASHLOSHA TEL AVIV
Swift: LUMIILIT814
IBAN: IL900108140000006078453
