Elkana Navon was born on October 12, 2003, to Shira and Chaim Raphael. He grew up in a loving family with his siblings Ayala, Aryeh, Hillel, and Elisha. From a young age, Elkana was full of energy, life, and kindness, always eager to help others and give back to his community. He studied at Yeshivat Darchei Noam for high school and continued his Torah studies at the Hesder Yeshiva in Kiryat Shmona.
In March 2023, Elkana enlisted in the IDF and served in the Infantry Corps. He excelled in the squad commanders’ course and was chosen to remain as an instructor, guiding and mentoring future officers. His dedication, leadership, and courage inspired all who served with him.
At the end of August 2024, during Operation Summer Camps, Elkana’s unit entered the Jenin refugee camp. While raiding a house, they encountered two Hamas operatives, and a fierce firefight broke out. Serving as a squad commander in the 910th Battalion of the Bislach Brigade, Elkana gave his life protecting his soldiers and fulfilling his mission. He was just twenty years old. His brother recalled, “When I was with him in the room, he told me not to cry for him, that he died the way he wanted to, like a hero. Elkana, I love you, and I salute you.”
Elkana was laid to rest at the Segula Military Cemetery and was posthumously promoted to First Sergeant. He is survived by his parents and four siblings. His bravery, devotion, and love for Israel left an enduring mark on everyone who knew him. May his memory be a blessing.
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