“Combat is hard and draining,” he admitted, “but we strike our enemies with strength.”
By IDF Club
Captain Daniel Maimon Toaff, just 23 years old, served as a company commander in the Shaked Battalion of the Givati Brigade.
He embodied courage, humility, and an unshakable commitment to his soldiers and his country.
His life was tragically cut short on September 17, 2024, when a building in Rafah collapsed following an explosion.
The incident claimed his life and those of Sgt. Maj. Amit Bacharya, Sgt. Maj. Dotan Shimon, and Sgt. Maj. Agam Naim, a dedicated combat medic.
Roots of Strength and Purpose
Daniel was the cherished son of Orit and Shlomo Toaff, raised in the community of Moreshet, where values of service, faith, and determination were woven into daily life.
A passionate mountain biker, Daniel brought intensity and drive to all he pursued.
He attended Shde Yaakov Yeshiva, deepening his spiritual connection and sense of national identity.
Later, he studied at the Bnei David pre-army academy in Eli, where his two brothers also learned—underscoring a family tradition of devotion to the nation and its defense.
Service Marked by Resolve and Sacrifice
Daniel’s military path was marked by initiative and quiet strength.
Slated to join a company commanders’ course, he stepped into the role earlier than expected after the death of his close friend and fellow officer, Captain Yaron Eliezer Chitiz, in combat in northern Gaza in December 2023.
Reflecting on their friendship in an interview with Kan 11, Daniel shared: “Yaron and I started together from day one… we went through everything side by side.”
His decision to carry on Yaron’s responsibilities was both a tribute and a continuation of a shared mission.
Daniel’s commitment never wavered, even amid escalating dangers.
“Combat is hard and draining,” he admitted, “but we strike our enemies with strength.”
His leadership style—marked by courage and personal example—won the trust and admiration of his troops.
His father recalled that Daniel never sent others where he wouldn’t go himself, often leading from the front into perilous territory.
A Voice of Vision and Faith
Before one of his final missions, Daniel wrote a powerful message to his company, placing their service in historical context.
“We are living through a moment that will be remembered for generations,” he wrote.
“It is our honor to be part of this story.” Citing figures from Avraham and Yaakov to today’s soldiers, Daniel reminded his comrades of the timeless chain of Jewish resilience and responsibility.
His words resonated deeply: “Real meaning in life comes from giving to our people… I feel lucky to live this way—with total devotion to Israel.”
The Heart of a Family and a Nation
Daniel’s family was both his foundation and his compass.
In his final message to his parents, he expressed heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you for raising me with unwavering values… You brought up a generation committed to Israel.”
His father’s moving eulogy at Mount Herzl was a cry of grief and pride: “Daniel fought a righteous war… every goodbye was a day of mourning for us.
We chose to bury him in Jerusalem, for his death belongs to all of Israel.”
In an emotional tribute, Shlomo recited lines from the Akedat Yitzhak, the Binding of Isaac, drawing a powerful parallel between Abraham’s test of faith and the sacrifice of his son.
Daniel’s final wish—that his loved ones continue to live lives of kindness and faith—reflects a legacy grounded in duty, compassion, and conviction.
Legacy of Leadership and Love
Captain Daniel Toaff’s life was one of deep purpose and service.
Through his letters, his actions, and the testimonies of those who served beside him, we see a man who led with integrity, inspired with conviction, and lived with unwavering love for his people and his land.
His story remains a testament to the bravery and selflessness that define Israel’s finest.
