(Reprinted from Five Towns Jewish Times) Ben Zussman, HY”D, was killed earlier this month in Gaza defending the Jewish people. This was his final letter, only to be released in case of his death or capture. This is but a glimpse into one of the neshamas we lost in this war.
Read the entire letter below:
“I am writing this letter to you as I am heading to the base. If you are reading it, something must have happened to me. You know me, so no one could be happier than me right now. It was no coincidence that I was on the verge of fulfilling my dream. I am happy and grateful for the privilege I will have to defend our beautiful land and the people of Israel.
In case something happens to me, I forbid you from sulking in sorrow. I’ve had the privilege of fulfilling my dream and destiny and you can be certain that I am looking down on you with a huge smile. I will probably sit next to grandpa and catch up on what we’ve missed, each of us will share our experiences and what’s changed between the wars. Maybe we’ll also talk a little politics, and I’ll ask him what he thinks.
If God forbid you are sitting shiva (the week of mourning), transform it into a week of friends, family and fun. There should be good food, meat of course, beer, soft drinks, nuts, and of course mom’s cookies. Tell jokes, share stories and you’ll get to meet all the rest of my friends that you haven’t yet met. You know? I envy you. I would want to sit there and see everyone.
Another matter that is very, very important. If God forbid, I fall into captivity, dead or alive, I will not allow a single soldier or citizen to be harmed because of some bargaining made for my release. I forbid you to conduct a campaign or struggle or anything of the sort. I am not willing to have terrorists released for me. In no way, shape or form. Don’t misconstrue my words please.
I’ll say it again, I left the house without even being called up to reserve duty. I am filled with pride and a sense of purpose and I always said that if I have to die, I wish it would be in defense of others and the State. “‘Jerusalem, I have placed guards, that one day will come and I will be one of them.’”
Incredible. Yehi zichro baruch.
