He chose combat service to defend his country: The story of Sgt. Tomer Keren
When those who loved Sgt. Tomer Keren speak about him, one word comes up again and again: “rare.” Tomer, a Golani Brigade soldier and commander who was killed on Sept. 19, 2024, at just 20, left behind a legacy of warmth, deeply held values and the lasting memory of a young man who was an anchor, a leader and a best friend to everyone around him.
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‘I loved being his mother’
Tomer was born and raised in Haifa. From an early age, he stood out for how quickly he developed and for his magnetic smile. His mother, Sandra Alon, remembers a cheerful baby who progressed remarkably fast and learned to read at a very young age. As an educator, she found in him a full partner in learning and spending time together. “I loved being his mother,” she said.
His father, Amit Keren, described a child who was exceptional both in appearance and character, with remarkable emotional intelligence. Despite the complexities of growing up with divorced parents from the age of 5, Tomer navigated his circumstances with sensitivity and maturity.
For his brother Ben Keren, Tomer was far more than a sibling; he was the steady center of his life. “We really grew up together,” Ben said. “He became the main anchor in my life, the one constant I could always rely on.”
Tomer’s charm came from the combination of his many talents and his deep humility. His mother often wondered aloud how someone so intelligent, handsome and widely loved could remain so unassuming, but modesty was simply part of who he was.
His leadership qualities stood out wherever he went, particularly in the Scouts, where he was active from fourth through 12th grade and had a natural ability to bring people together.
His bond with his family was exceptionally close. He and his father shared deep, open conversations without barriers, while Tomer was fiercely protective of his brother Ben, always looking out for him and pushing him to aim higher, just as Tomer expected of himself.
He joined Golani out of a desire to serve his country
For Tomer, the decision to pursue meaningful combat service was clear from a young age. When he enlisted in the Golani Brigade in November 2023, his family felt he had found exactly where he belonged.
In Golani, he found the same sense of family, affection and deep camaraderie that had always defined him. During training, his commanders quickly recognized his leadership abilities, and he was chosen to command soldiers from his own training class.
A fellow soldier, identified as O., recalled a young commander who led with humility and never abused his authority. He described Tomer as warm, approachable and exceptionally intelligent, someone people naturally trusted and wanted to confide in.
On Sept. 19, 2024, during an operational mission in northern Israel, Tomer’s force was struck directly by two anti-tank missiles. He was killed at the scene, leaving his family and friends stunned by a loss they still struggle to comprehend.
His father described the aftermath as a state of feeling “dead while still alive,” while his brother said he still imagines the door opening and finds himself waiting for Tomer to come home for the weekend.
During the shiva mourning period, his father discovered something striking: Nearly every friend who came to pay respects said the same thing: Tomer had been his best friend.
Be better people
“I want people to know that this was a young man who chose combat service and chose to go fight during a war,” his mother said, her pride mixed with grief. Tomer understood the danger he faced, but chose to serve his country and ultimately gave his life in its defense.
His family asks that people remember him through the values he left behind: striving to become better people, showing leadership, practicing true friendship and loving one’s country. Sgt. Tomer Keren will be remembered as a lasting symbol of generosity, courage and camaraderie.
Sgt. Tomer Keren of the Golani Brigade was killed on Sept. 19, 2024. He was 20.
May his memory be a blessing.
Sergeant
Tomer Keren