Israeli Heroes

Today we honor those in Israel who were wounded, whether in body or in spirit, as a result of acts of war or terrorism. We in EMUNAH would like to share the unique story of Pnina Malka, a preschool teacher at an EMUNAH Day Care Center in Tiberias, and her brave son, Eliel Malka.
On October 7, Eliel Malka, a company commander in the Givati brigade, was in battle with his soldiers in Kfar Aza. While emptying out houses in search of surviving citizens, they encountered a force of terrorists hiding in the safe room. In the ensuing battle, Eliel was critically wounded by a grenade which was tossed towards him. He tried to return fire, but was unsuccessful. While additional grenades were being thrown at them, the communications officer said to Eliel, that it doesn’t look like they’ll make it out of there alive. Eliel insisted, “We will make it out of here. I won’t do that to my mother.”
Since the injury, Pnina and her family haven’t left his bedside. They left their homes and their routines, and moved near the Sheba Hospital. Together with her husband and three other children, Pnina supported Eliel during a series of complicated surgeries, many days of hospitalization, and a challenging period of rehabilitation. Pnina’s love and dedication to her son inspire us all – a shining example of the strength of a mother’s love.
Over the course of almost a year, the children, parents and staff of the Tiberias day care center missed her, waiting patiently for Pnina’s return. And finally, once Eliel’s condition stabilized, Pnina returned to work, where she continues to bestow her great love upon the children at the day care center.
Today, Eliel continues daily rehab in Raanana. Step by step, with effort and determination, he is progressing on the road to recovery. His whole family continues to support him, and in his footsteps, his younger brother has decided to enlist in the Givati brigade as well.
We salute Eliel, the hero, and wish him a complete and speedy recovery, and embrace Pnina, who teaches us what maternal love is, and reminds us that there is no limit to what a mother is willing to do for her children, “Because there is no love in the world like a mother’s love.” (From an Israeli song by Smadar Shir, music by Moshe Datz, and made famous by Zahava Ben)
On this day, we wish complete recovery to all wounded soldiers, victims of terror, and members of the security forces. May we merit to see them all return to themselves, both physically and emotionally, surround by the love and support of their families and all of Israel.