Captain Itay Chen, age 24, was killed in battle in the Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza on February 27, 2024. He was born on February 8, 2000, in Yeruham to Chaya and Avraham (Rami) Chen and was the brother of Uri, Shachar, and Neta. Itay grew up in Yeruham, where he attended Kol Yaakov and later the Amit Belevav Shalem Yeshiva. Known for his quiet charm, kindness, and dedication to others, he became a devoted member and later a counselor in Bnei Akiva and led his local robotics team to impressive achievements. Before joining the army, he prepared at the Keshet Yehuda pre-military academy. In March 2020, Itay enlisted in the IDF’s Givati Brigade, joining the Tzabar Battalion, where he excelled as a soldier, squad commander, and later an officer. He was loved by his soldiers, who affectionately called him “Abba.” On October 7, 2023, during the Hamas attack on Kfar Aza, Itay led his soldiers in battle, rescuing civilians, including a baby named Itay, and showing extraordinary courage. He later continued fighting inside Gaza. After his death, he was posthumously promoted to the rank of Captain. Itay is deeply mourned by his family, friends, and fellow soldiers, and his legacy of leadership, bravery, and compassion remains an enduring inspiration.
The information on this page is part of the 'Yizkor' commemoration project by the Ministry of Defense / the 'La'ad' website by the National Insurance Institute, in memory of the fallen. We strive for accuracy and apologize for any errors. For corrections or comments, please contact us here: https://aaciremembers.org/contact-us/
