Moshe Yedidya Leiter is destined for greatness. I know this because I got to know him – and the passing of this talented young man fills my heart with deep pain.
Moshe was among the most promising students at the medical school I founded together with my late husband Sheldon at Ariel University. He was older than most of his classmates, having served until the age of 33 in an elite military unit and had already started a family. After all this, he jumped into his new career with a pioneering joy, while contributing 90 days of reserve duty each year.
Painful crowds at the funeral of Moshe Leiter, photo: AP
I was not surprised to learn that Moshe was born in ancient Hebron and grew up in the settlement of Ali in a family of patriotic immigrants, thinkers and welfare and relief providers. He excelled as an officer in the Kingfisher unit, just as he would as a doctor. He was a father of six, while he himself looked like an eternal, curious child with a mischievous smile that never left his lips.
By the same token, it was no surprise to learn that Moshe fell in battle as a hero during one of the more dangerous missions in Gaza: neutralizing a terrorist tunnel that was booby-trapped with IEDs.
How fitting was his name: Moses - following the giver of the Torah, Leiter - which means "leader" in Old German, and in the middle - Yedidya. It seems that God already wanted to gather this friend by his side. But too early, how early. The heart hurts and the head refuses to believe that it will never return.
Just before entering. Photo of reserve soldiers from the 551st Brigade, four of whom fell in the IED explosion in Beit Hanoun, photo: from Facebook
Like all the people of Israel, I mourn all those who were murdered in the October 7 massacre and in the war that has been forced upon us ever since. Each and every one of us is a whole world. Each and every one of us left us with an abyss. Alongside the pain, I pray for the safety of our abductees and for them to return home soon.
Rest in peace Moshe Yedidya, my dear friend. I am so proud to have met you – as a student, as a fellow medical professional and as a person. I send my condolences to your parents, your wife, your children and all your friends and acquaintances. You will be sorely missed by all.
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