About Elkana
A Hero of Israel, Loving and Generous
Origins and Spirit
Staff Sergeant (Reserve) Elkana Yehuda Sfez הי״ד was the fifth child of Eliyahu and Rachel, and the youngest in the family. He was 25 years old when he fell. Elkana was a respected fighter, a hero of Israel, full of love for others and generous in spirit.
*Elkana fell in the tragedy of the 21 soldiers in Gaza on January 22, 2024 (12 Shevat).
Elkana grew up in Kiryat Arba/Hebron. He studied at the Talmud Torah near the Cave of Machpelah, and later continued at the “Yatka” Yeshiva in Hebron, where he studied until ninth grade. He then moved to Jerusalem to study at “Amit Technological Kiryat HaNoar,” completed his high school diploma with matriculation exams, and worked in the culinary field at the Mahane Yehuda market.
A Meaningful Service and a Great Dream
Elkana fought to enlist in the army and it was important to him to serve in a meaningful role. He therefore joined the Givati Brigade, Shaked Battalion. After completing his military service, he worked as a personal security guard in Africa and, after a few months, was promoted to chief security officer.
His love for food never left him. Even then, he was saving money to open a business in the culinary field. After finishing his military service, he dreamed of traveling between military bases with a food truck and distributing food to soldiers.
When Elkana returned from Africa, he worked in a restaurant in Tel Aviv and lived in Ramat Gan. Four months later, the war broke out. He wanted to explore and learn the world of cuisine, understand what it takes, how to do it properly, and he deeply researched the field that burned within him.
Elkana had a gift for bringing people together he cooked for friends, and hospitality was a central part of his life
Heroism in the Iron Swords War
On October 7, Elkana did not wait for an emergency call-up. He went of his own accord to the southern front, fought in fierce battles, and joined Battalion 8208 of Brigade 261. He became a key figure in his unit caring for everyone and spreading light wherever he went. The stories of his heroism in battle testify to his courage and unwavering dedication.
A Dream That Continues to Live
Elkana’s dream to create a food truck that would spread joy, good food, and unconditional love did not end. It became a guiding light for the “Yad Elkana” organization, which continues his path of giving and love for the people of Israel, bringing his light to soldiers, families, and all of Israel.
The Letter That Changed Everything
This is a draft of the letter that Elkana wrote in order to be accepted back into combat service.
A letter that reflects his determination and his deep desire to serve his country.
To:
Subject: Appeal Regarding the Draft Status of Elkana Sfez
Hello,
This is a personal request in which I ask that the decision to grant me an exemption from military service be reconsidered.
The reason I wish to enlist in the IDF is that I believe — and this is how I was raised — that every individual must contribute his share to the country. I feel that I owe even more than others, because I live in Kiryat Arba. Every day I see how soldiers sacrifice their best years for me and for my family. Since I was a child, I have dreamed of the moment when it would be my turn to serve, to contribute, and to give of myself to the country and to my people.
All my brothers served in the army, and as a family we help and support one another deeply. My desire to enlist stems from a genuine and profound belief in serving in the best and most meaningful way for the country. Therefore, I wish to serve in a combat unit, specifically in the Golani Brigade, which I deeply respect.
I believe I can give my all — to work hard and to invest myself fully. Over recent years, I have been determined and motivated to enlist. I attended a pre-military program, and I am prepared for the challenges that military service brings.
To my disappointment and surprise, I received an exemption, and was informed that I cannot enlist. I do not understand the reason for this decision, and I wish to change it. I am willing to do anything necessary in order to fully integrate into Israeli society and serve the people and the State.
With thanks,
Elkana Sfez
Moments of Life
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