A big heart and a radiant smile: Remembering Sgt. Ori Nechemia Ashkenazi
Sgt. Ori Nechemya Ashkenazi, a soldier in the IDF Armored Corps, was just 19 when he was killed. On Aug. 22, 2024, during a military operation in the Tel Sultan neighborhood of Rafah, the life of a young man who embodied joy, strength and love for others was cut short. Ori left behind a loving family, a grieving girlfriend and cherished memories of a young man whose warmth and kindness touched everyone around him.
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A playful, joyful child
From an early age, Ori was a mischievous, cheerful boy who loved life and was always laughing. His uncle and godfather, Dudi Nechemya, remembers him as an integral part of the family and his children’s best friend. His older brother, Shalev, recalls Ori’s infectious, ear-to-ear smile, while his sister, Tohar, and cousin, Tair, remember him as caring, protective and thoughtful, someone who always put others before himself.
Sports and boundless energy were an essential part of Ori's life. He was a devoted FC Barcelona fan, loved playing PlayStation with his relatives, and started working out at the gym in 10th grade, becoming a strong, muscular young man. Yet beneath his imposing physique and charismatic presence was a deeply sensitive heart. His love for his girlfriend, Shir, was intense and profound, and he never stopped looking out for those around him.
Always looking out for his tank crew
When the time came to enlist, Ori was determined to serve on the front lines. He joined the Armored Corps out of a deep commitment to his country and found a second family among his fellow soldiers. Even inside the tank, amid the fear and tension of combat in Gaza, Ori made sure to keep spirits high, playing music and preparing breakfast for his crew so they could start each day with a smile.
The devastating news that Ori had been killed by an anti-tank missile left his family in complete shock. His loved ones still struggle to come to terms with the loss of someone who had been so full of life and whose presence was impossible to miss. His brother carries a military dog tag matching Ori's, while family members continue to honor his memory on social media.
In a letter he left on his cellphone, Ori wrote, in part: "I lived a wonderful life with no regrets ... I did what I did and served in the military out of complete love for our strange country ... I love you forever, and I'll watch over you from above. I would be happy if you carried on my legacy."
His family holds on to his final wishes and the hope of carrying on his legacy through a child who may one day be born using his sperm. Ori is gone, but the light, laughter and boundless love he left behind will remain with his loved ones forever.
Sgt. Ori Nechemya Ashkenazi, of the IDF Armored Corps, fell in battle on Aug. 22, 2024, at the age of 19.
May his memory be a blessing.
Sergeant
Ori Nechemya Ashkenazi