On Remembrance Day, Thousands Gather in Jerusalem to Honor Fallen Lone Soldiers

In a deeply emotional tribute that transcended borders and languages, thousands gathered at the Jerusalem Theater on Israel’s Remembrance Day to honor 43 Lone Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the Jewish state during the Iron Swords War. These brave individuals, many of them immigrants without immediate family in Israel, stood on the front lines from the very outset of the October 7 Hamas massacre and continued to serve with valor in the weeks that followed.

Today, more than 7,000 Lone Soldiers serve in the Israel Defense Forces, hailing from dozens of countries across the globe. Their dedication embodies a powerful commitment not only to the State of Israel but to the shared values of courage, identity, and Jewish continuity.

Since the war’s outbreak, over 800 soldiers have fallen. Among them were 43 Lone Soldiers heroes who responded first, served selflessly, and gave their lives far from their birthplaces but close to the hearts of the nation they chose to defend.

The memorial was organized in a rare and unifying collaboration between several leading support organizations for Lone Soldiers, including the FIDF–Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers Program, Big Brother for Lone Soldiers, Garin Tzabar, and the Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin. The Jerusalem Municipality co-sponsored the event.

Conducted in both Hebrew and English, the ceremony was led by Lone Soldiers themselves, a poignant reminder of the unique brotherhood and shared mission they carry. In attendance were dignitaries such as Brigadier General Samuel Bomandil, Chief Education Officer of the IDF, and bereaved families who had traveled from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Ghana to stand in remembrance of their children.

Among those honored were Sgt. Rose Lubin, Sgt. Nathaniel Young, SFC Amir Fisher, and Sgt.-Maj. (Res.) Ronny Ganizate. Each name, each life, a testament to the global commitment to Israel’s defense and the price of that devotion.

A special prayer was recited for the safe return of Lone Soldier hostage Idan Alexander and the repatriation of Omar Neutra’s body both currently held in Gaza by Hamas. The solemn moment underscored the ongoing pain endured by families and communities still waiting for closure.

The ceremony was more than a memorial. It was a powerful declaration: Israel remembers her sons and daughters, no matter where they were born. The spirit of the Lone Soldier one of conviction, courage, and calling continues to unite Jews worldwide in purpose and pride.

Please share this story or subscribe to our newsletter to honor their memory and stand with those who serve.