This week I met a true hero.
Gabi Shoval, 43, has served as a Staff Sergeant in the Combat Engineering IDF unit for the past 23 years.
During Operation Protective Edge, Gabi’s unit was responsible for destroying Hamas tunnels. Thank G-d, they successfully obliterated 29 tunnels, saving countless lives, and earning a medal of honor for his courage and bravery. But while destroying the 19th tunnel Gabi’s luck ran out. Hamas terrorists fired an anti-tank missile at his unit and three soldiers, including Gabi, were severely injured.
Doctors performed 65 complicated operations to try and save his right leg, but despite their best efforts, five months ago they were forced to amputate.
Gabi’s 18-year-old daughter is now being enlisted into the IDF, and guess which unit she will be joining? The same unit in which her father served for 23 years—Combat Engineering.
As for Gabi, what does he plan to do with the rest of his life? His desire is to recover and go back to serving in the IDF!
The Lubavitcher Rebbe spoke often about the tremendous merit of the IDF soldiers, who put their lives at risk for the sole purpose of protecting their brethren and their country. Their portion in the world to come is guaranteed!
What a privilege to meet this hero, who is so dedicated to his country that wants to return to service despite a life-altering injury. A true hero, in every sense.