Sergeant Yoav Daniel (2005-2024)

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Yoav was born on September 28, 2005, the eldest son of Revital and Shahar of the Daniel family. He grew up in Nahariya, where he attended elementary and high school.

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Since he was young, Yoav was known as a charming and determined child, with a smile that could melt hearts. He always did whatever came to his mind in his own way, without hesitation. From an early age, Yoav developed a strong love for chess. He participated in many clubs and competitions, representing his school and the city he grew up in with great pride. Later on, Yoav developed impressive physical abilities, which, combined with his determination and uncompromising character, led him to start training in MMA fighting. Yoav showed immense commitment to the sport and quickly advanced in it. His physical and mental abilities enabled him to launch an impressive career as a young fighter, even winning the Israeli Youth MMA Championship for two consecutive years (2022, 2023). Yoav proudly represented Israel in the World Championship in Abu Dhabi in 2023.

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Toward his enlistment in the IDF, Yoav chose to forgo the status of an outstanding athlete and volunteered for the Golani Brigade, joining Battalion 51 upon his recruitment. Yoav excelled during his training as a fighter throughout the months of training and was even marked for a command position in his future military career. After completing his training, he joined active combat in southern Lebanon during the "Iron Swords" war.

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On November 13, 2024, during the capture of the village of Tayr Harfa, from which rockets were being fired non-stop towards northern communities, including Nahariya – the city where his family lived – Yoav fell in battle, together with five of his comrades, while clearing a building.

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Yoav loved life, laughed, and rejoiced constantly. He always chose to do whatever came to his mind, always with a smile on his face. Yoav will remain in our hearts and memories, and his joy of life will always accompany us. We will love him forever and mourn his short life, which was cut short on the altar of sacrifice for the security of our homeland. Yoav protected his family and fellow citizens with his body and soul and even sacrificed his life for their continued existence and security. Amid the deep grief and mourning of a nation fighting for its life, Yoav’s joy, love, and courage serve as a bright beacon in the darkness, guiding us back home.

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Yoav was laid to rest at the military cemetery in Nahariya. He was 19 years old at the time of his death. He left behind his parents and two sisters, Hadar and Stav, a large extended family, and countless friends who will carry his name proudly for eternity.

May his memory be blessed.