Reminders of the men and women who gave their lives so others could live in peace
By Hezy Laing
A moving sight greets those entering Jerusalem’s Old City.
Jaffa Gate, its main entrance, is now adorned with memorial stickers honoring Israel’s fallen soldiers.
There are literally hundreds of stickers there, each one representing the life of a young man or woman who died in the line of duty.
Since the war began a year and a half ago, these stickers have appeared throughout Israel—on cars, bus stops, lampposts, train stations, and more—serving as constant reminders of the men and women who gave their lives so others could live in peace.
Every sticker typically features a photo of the fallen soldier, their name, and an uplifting phrase they were known for.
In this way, the stickers serve not only as memorials but also as sources of inspiration.
Many of these heroes were also organ donors, giving the gift of life even in death.
Families often launch online fundraising campaigns to commemorate their loved ones through public service projects — such as music classes for under-privileged children, recreation centers for lone soldiers and scenic lookout points over the Land of Israel.