Yonatan Golan

Yonatan (Yoni) Golan was born on December 10, 2001, in Neve Monosson, Israel, to his parents Hila, Ran, and Adi.
He was the beloved brother of Maya, Dor, Yotam, and Lihi. From a young age, Yoni was known for his kind heart, strong sense of responsibility, and the love he shared with his family.

Education and Personality

Yoni grew up in a close-knit family and was known for his warm, caring nature. He had a strong bond with his siblings, always looking out for them and making sure they felt loved and supported. Yoni’s friends and family remember him as a bright and thoughtful individual, someone who was always willing to lend a hand and offer his support to those in need.

Military Service

On August 10, 2021, Yoni enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and joined the Armored Corps, where he served with distinction as a tank commander in the 77th Battalion of the ‘Storm from Golan’ Brigade. Yoni’s leadership qualities quickly became apparent, and he earned the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers and commanders.

Yoni was a dedicated and courageous soldier, known for his calm demeanor under pressure and his unwavering commitment to his comrades. His service in the IDF was marked by his strong sense of duty and his desire to protect his country and the people he loved.

The Battle of Nahal Oz

On October 7, 2023, during the Hamas-led massacre that would become known as the “Black Saturday,” Yoni and his tank crew were stationed at the Nahal Oz post when Hamas terrorists launched a surprise attack on Israel.

Yoni and his tank crew were stationed at the Nahal Oz post when Hamas terrorists launched a surprise attack on Israel. As a tank commander, Yoni led his crew into battle, defending the post against a large force of terrorists. Yoni and his team fought bravely, killing dozens of terrorists at the fence and later defending a shelter of soldiers with their tank.

When the tank was eventually disabled, Yoni made the heroic decision to stay behind and cover his crew as they evacuated to the shelter. His actions saved the lives of his comrades and the soldiers in the shelter. Tragically, Yoni fell in battle, sacrificing his life to protect others. His bravery and selflessness in those final moments were a testament to the kind of person he was—a true hero who put the lives of others before his own.

Legacy and Remembrance

Yonatan Golan was laid to rest with full military honors at the Yehud Military Cemetery. He was 21 years old at the time of his death. Yoni’s sacrifice is remembered by his family, friends, and the countless people whose lives he touched. His mother, Adi, shared the story of his final moments, highlighting the courage and determination that defined his character.

Yoni’s legacy is one of bravery, selflessness, and love. He will always be remembered as a hero who gave his life to protect his country and his fellow soldiers. His memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the nation he served with such dedication.