Baruch Dayan HaEmet: Remembering Sgt. First Class Tom Rotstein, 23, of Ramat Gan

Baruch Dayan HaEmet: Remembering Sgt. First Class Tom Rotstein, 23, of Ramat Gan

With broken hearts and profound sorrow, we share the tragic news of the passing of Sgt. First Class Tom Rotstein, a brave 23-year-old soldier from Ramat Gan, who was killed in action while serving in Gaza. Tom was a proud member of the Yahalom Unit, the elite combat engineering unit of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), known for its critical and highly dangerous operations in the field.

Baruch Dayan HaEmet—Blessed is the True Judge. These sacred words mark a moment of deep mourning within the Jewish community, as we come to terms with the loss of a courageous young man whose life was dedicated to protecting the people and land of Israel.

Tom served with unwavering commitment, honor, and bravery. As part of Yahalom, he was entrusted with missions of immense responsibility—neutralizing threats, safeguarding his fellow soldiers, and ensuring the success of complex operations that often go unseen by the public eye but are vital to the nation’s security.

His tragic death occurred during combat operations in Gaza, where he was actively engaged in defending the State of Israel. The details of the mission remain confidential, but what can be shared is that Tom fell in the line of duty, fulfilling his oath with the ultimate sacrifice. He died a hero, giving everything for the country he loved so dearly.

Family, friends, and comrades are now left grappling with an unimaginable loss. Tom was not only a skilled soldier but also a deeply loved son, brother, and friend. He was known for his quiet strength, sense of purpose, and fierce loyalty—to his unit, his loved ones, and his homeland. His smile lit up the room, and his determination in the field inspired everyone who served alongside him.

The IDF and the city of Ramat Gan have united in mourning, honoring Tom’s legacy with heartfelt tributes and support for his grieving family. Military leaders have praised his bravery and devotion, describing him as a role model among his peers and a source of pride to the nation.

A funeral service with full military honors will be held in the coming days, where he will be laid to rest among fellow heroes. Thousands are expected to attend, as the community comes together to pay their final respects to one of its finest.

In these moments of grief, we extend our deepest condolences to Tom’s family. May you find comfort in the knowledge that your son’s memory will live on in the heart of the nation he served. May his life, his service, and his sacrifice be an everlasting blessing.

May his memory be for a blessing.
Sgt. First Class Tom Rotstein, age 23, of blessed memory, you are gone too soon but never forgotten. Your courage, your spirit, and your love for Israel will echo in eternity.