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"Sgt. Yona Brief"

November 26th, 2025

Dear Friends,

Sergeant First Class Yona Brief, a combat medic in the Israel Defense Force's elite Duvdevan unit, died just one year ago, November 26, 2024. Yona, a grandson of our beloved Rabbi Emeritus Neil Brief, joined us for a Shabbat kiddush a few years ago.

While trying to save others on October 7, 2023, Yona was shot 13 times. He was a hero on that day. Indeed, he was a hero the previous year as well when he, after being wounded, insisted on rejoining his comrades -- something he was not required to do. That is courage.

During his long hospitalization and throughout many surgeries, Yona remained a positive presence in the world. A recent TV news segment -- linked below -- shows Yona in the hospital, wounded but positive, in pain but praying, struggling but sharing his smile. The video also illustrates how his parents, David and Hazel, and his siblings, even though pain, express gratitude for Yona's presence in their lives.

Friends, we live in a complicated and at times painful world. Many are the times we feel less than grateful. But let us - during this week in particular -- be inspired by the likes of Yona Brief and his family. Even amid pain, let us acknowledge the blessings we possess, and let us give thanks. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Jeffrey Weill 

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