Last week, I shared an explanation of why I don’t write critically about contentious issues in Israel in this forum. Today, I’m going to partially break that self-imposed rule. I apologize for the contradiction, not the criticism.

Last week, a lone IDF soldier who had spent more than 740 days in Gaza and who had requested leave took his own life. In itself that would be a tragedy among tragedies. Over a period of 18 months in 2024 and 2025, almost 300 IDF soldiers have attempted suicide, and since 10/7 over 60 have taken their lives. The trauma that these soldiers have experienced, the endless cycle of reserve duty and the mental images they lived with are something I have read and researched about, but I cannot begin to comprehend.

This tragedy is even more pronounced. Josh Boone, z’l, was a young man from Idaho who came alone to Israel because of his love for the Jewish people and his passionate dedication to protecting Jewish lives. He was a sniper in the Golani Brigade (and served in reserve roles in several other units). Many times over the last two years he took on shabbat or holiday duties and gave up his furlough so that others with families could briefly go home. He’d say “I’m on my own. Go be with your wife and kids.”

Josh was known for both his kindness and his expertise and was an inspiration for all who served with him. Over time, though, he understood the toll that the war was taking on him. He requested time off and help for PTSD only weeks ago. Unfortunately, the respite came too late, and the help was not timely or sustained enough.

My friend and colleague, Rabbi Ari Abraramovitz from NEVUT Lone Soldiers organization here in Rockland, shared with me that “This week we lost a true hero of the Jewish people, Josh Boone z”l, a Lone Soldier whose life was defined by courage and service, having served 748 days in this war. His passing is a painful reminder that the invisible wounds of war, including PTSD, are real and lasting.

Of the needs we have identified as places where our Israel allocations will benefit are organizations assisting lone soldiers, veterans and their families experiencing PTSD and war related trauma. We’ve been proud to support local organizations such as NEVUT and Tevaland Farm in helping these heroes in need, and we look forward to working with Chayal el Chayal and Niv Nirel in Israel to address these challenges..

Here’s my rule-break. Josh’s brothers in arms, lone soldiers, reservists, friends and supporters from across the world are asking - demanding - that he be accorded the honor of burial as a fallen soldier on Har Herzl. As Rabbi Abramovitz wrote to me, “We have a responsibility to honor our heroes not only for what they gave on the battlefield, but by truly showing up for them with care, understanding, and support when they come home.”

Because the circumstances of his death were not considered in combat, to this point the Ministry of Defense and the government have declined to do so, and he was buried yesterday, for now, in Beersheva.

With the greatest of love for the Jewish people and those who wear the uniform of Tzahal, I say to those in uniform and in civilian leadership roles, both elected and appointed, who are decision makers in these matters, you are making a grave error - Do the right thing!! Accord this hero a hero’s repose in hallowed ground. If not for his selfless sacrifice and ultimate tragic end alone, then also for the 60 who have been lost to the scourge of PTSD and the hundreds if not thousands of heroes still contending with it. They are still fighting, still on the battlefield, every time they close their eyes or feel a jarring reminder of what they experienced.

I honestly don’t know how much my call can help. Perhaps among many tens of thousands who have already spoken up, it can make a difference. But I do know that you can help the Federation play an important role in supporting the organizations like those I mentioned above which are working every day to help and sustain and support our heroes. If you are moved to make a contribution supporting this aspect of our work, please add “In memory of Josh Boone, z’l” in the notes on the donation page.