When his friend hoped that his reserve service would end soon, Efi replied, “Exactly the opposite, I wish it would never end. The mission is more important than life right now.” His friend responded, “Wow, what an incredible attitude.”
By The IDF Club
Master Sergeant (Res.) Yona Efraim “Efi” Feldbaum, 37, from Zayit Raanan in the Binyamin region, was laid to rest Wednesday afternoon at Mount Herzl Military Cemetery in Jerusalem.
A devoted husband and father of five, Feldbaum fell in battle in southern Gaza while serving in the IDF Gaza Division, after Hamas once again violated the ceasefire.
Feldbaum was part of the Nahal Brigade Combat Team, operating in the Rafah area to destroy Hamas terror infrastructure east of the yellow line in territory under Israeli control.
His unit targeted a section of the tunnel network in the Jenina neighborhood when enemy fire struck an armored engineering vehicle, killing him.
Moments later, Hamas launched several anti-tank missiles at another IDF vehicle, which sustained no injuries. Israeli forces returned fire, targeting multiple terrorist positions, including tunnel shafts and buildings that posed an immediate threat to their forces.
At the funeral, hundreds gathered to honor Feldbaum, whose life was marked by courage, humility, and devotion to Israel.
His wife, Shulamit, spoke through tears: “Efi always aimed high. He always wanted to grow and learn more without overthinking. He taught us to live fully and to aspire to be better. He loved to cook and to help others. He thought ahead and embraced people without judgment. Efi, thank you for all the gifts. Please watch over us and over the people of Israel. May there be no more families like ours and may redemption come soon.”
Feldbaum’s mother shared her grief, recalling his unwavering commitment: “When he enlisted, he told me, ‘Mom, do not worry. I will tell you when to worry.’ The first time he went into Gaza, he said, ‘I promised to tell you. Now you can worry.’ Efi was a man of expression. One look could convey deep emotion. He loved his work and gave back to the country with joy.”
His brother Moshe remembered his courage and generosity. “You had a special gentleness giving and volunteering that came with humility and modesty. People spoke of your courage and generosity as two sides of the same mosaic.”
Just a month before his death, Feldbaum wrote to a friend, revealing the depth of his dedication. When his friend hoped that his reserve service would end soon, Efi replied, “Exactly the opposite, I wish it would never end. The mission is more important than life right now.” His friend responded, “Wow, what an incredible attitude. I admire you so much, it is unbelievable.”
Commander Uria, who was at Feldbaum’s side in his final moments, recalled holding him as he hummed “Shalom Aleichem Malachei HaSharet,” a traditional Shabbat song welcoming angels of peace. The crowd joined in, singing together and connecting heaven and earth in a moment of solemn tribute.
Feldbaum’s death is a reminder of Hamas’s ongoing threat and of Israel’s duty to protect its people.
He gave his life defending his homeland, leaving a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and devotion. His memory stands as a beacon of the spirit of the IDF and the enduring strength of the Israeli people.
