A hero of light, magic and courage: The story of Capt. Yogev Pazy
Capt. Yogev Pazy was the eldest of four brothers, with an enormous heart from the very beginning. Even as a child, he was filled with a passion for life and people. He played basketball, was an active member of the Scouts movement in Lehavim, and at age 10 decided he wanted to become financially independent. A magic kit he received for his birthday became the foundation of his own business, performing magic shows and creating balloon decorations.
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But his magic went far beyond the stage. Yogev had a magnetic personality, a gift for humor and impressions, and an infectious energy that captivated everyone around him. He was a born prankster, but he also lived by the biblical principle of "Justice, justice shall you pursue," never afraid to ask questions and demand answers.
His brother Noam, with whom he shared a close bond, remembers a caring, attentive older brother who instilled in those around him the values of generosity and unconditional love. Before beginning his military service, Yogev spent a year in Chicago as a volunteer emissary for the Jewish Agency. There, his boundless energy and booming laughter drew people to him almost as if by magic. His girlfriend, Maya, remembers a young man who could understand her without a word, someone people simply wanted to be around.
For Yogev, military service was more than a duty. It was a calling he had embraced since childhood. He dreamed big, determined to make a difference and go as far as he possibly could. He began his service in the elite Egoz commando unit, completed its training program and was assigned to a newly established drone team before attending officer training school.
When the Iron Swords war broke out, Yogev continued to lead his soldiers with professionalism, driven by a deep sense of mission and unwavering trust in the men under his command.
On Nov. 17, 2024, at just 22 years old, Yogev was serving as a platoon commander in the Kfir Brigade when he led his soldiers on an operation to clear buildings in the Gaza Strip. As they entered the fourth house, they came under heavy fire. When one of his soldiers was wounded in the abdomen, Yogev did not hesitate. With extraordinary courage, he threw himself over the wounded soldier, shielding him with his own body from further danger and was struck by a fatal bullet.
Yogev left behind a loving family and grieving friends. To honor his joyful, creative spirit, a moving memorial project called "Yogev's Balloon" was established, bringing together dozens of artists who created a massive balloon installation depicting the story of his life. Like a butterfly, Yogev's life was brief, yet he managed to embrace the world with extraordinary passion, leave an indelible mark on countless hearts and brighten the lives of all who loved him.
Capt. Yogev Pazy, of the Kfir Brigade, was killed in action on Nov. 17, 2024, at age 22.
May his memory be a blessing.
Captain
Yogev Pazy