Honoring My Hero A Mother’s Tribute to Her Son Lost in Gaza

Next week, Debbie Chitiz from Raanana will swim across the Hudson River in memory of her son, Yaron Chitiz, who was killed in Gaza while serving as a commander in the IDF’s Givati Brigade. Speaking at Teaneck’s weekly Run for Their Lives event, which advocates for the release of hostages still held in Gaza, Debbie shared the story of her son’s life, leadership, and ultimate sacrifice.

Yaron was just a week shy of his 24th birthday when he fell in combat. Known for his exceptional leadership, he was selected early for a commander’s course, served as a commander for new recruits, and later completed the officer’s course. Rising quickly through the ranks, Yaron was appointed commander of the Officers Course and served as deputy commander of the Shaked Battalion.

He was more than a soldier; he was a young man full of dreams and love. Yaron was planning to build a home and start a family with his girlfriend, Dara. “My Yaron, I refuse to believe that you won’t be with me anymore,” Dara said, mourning the future they were meant to share.

Despite the hardships of war, Yaron’s return home after 80 days on the battlefield became a moment of joy that spread far beyond his family. A video of his surprise visit for a short weekend went viral, capturing the raw happiness of a soldier’s homecoming. “Wow, what a weekend,” Debbie recalled. “He came home exhausted, dirty, and hungry. But he hardly slept. He made sure to do all the things that made him happy.” That weekend, however, was their last together.

On December 26, 2023, Yaron was killed in action while bravely confronting terrorists who had targeted his unit, saving the lives of fellow soldiers. Two other soldiers were also killed in the firefight. Debbie expressed her bittersweet relief: “My biggest concern was whether he had suffered. But he was killed instantly. And for that, I am grateful.”

Her words reflect both profound grief and an unwavering gratitude for having had the chance to say goodbye, for the recovery of his body, and for being able to donate some of his organs. “At Shura, where the bodies are prepared for burial, we sang… or at least tried to sing ‘Hamalach Ha’Goel,’ the bedtime prayer we sang to him as a child,” she said. Yaron had even left a farewell letter on his phone, a reminder of his deep awareness of the risks he faced.

His funeral, like his life, was marked by honor and love. “The gratitude and privilege of being a mom to such a special human being, one who was the glue in so many circles… He held us all together,” Debbie said.

In the months since his passing, Debbie has found healing through swimming, channeling her pain into strength. What began as local training evolved into a passion for open-water swimming. She has completed the 20.5 km Kinneret crossing three times and competes in national and international events. Each swim is now a tribute to her son. “I now dedicate all my swimming to Yaron,” she said. “And I have my own slogan printed on my swim cap: YOU’LL NEVER SWIM ALONE.”

Through her determination, Debbie carries Yaron’s spirit forward his bravery, his joy, and the love he left behind. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary people who stand behind Israel’s defenders, turning heartbreak into a lasting legacy.

Israel’s strength lies in stories like Yaron’s of courage, family, and unwavering dedication. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter to honor those who give everything for the future of Israel.