Chief Rabbi Comforts Family of Soldier Yehuda Katz Whose Body Returned After 40 Years

Chief Rabbi of Israel, Kalman Meir Bar, recently visited the home of fallen IDF soldier Yehuda Katz to offer condolences following the return of Katz's remains to Israel after more than 40 years. Rabbi Bar, who studied alongside Katz at Kerem B'Yavneh Yeshiva, shared personal memories of him with the family. He recalled a poignant moment at the time of Katz's enlistment when, instead of heading directly to the army bus after using the restroom, Katz briefly returned to the study hall, explaining simply, "One does not go to the army from the restroom, but from the study hall." This reflected Katz's deep connection to Torah study as the foundation for his military service.

Rabbi Bar described how this mindset accompanied Katz throughout his service, noting that at the soldiers' assembly point, Katz led his comrades in joyful dance circles before missions, demonstrating leadership and discipline. The rabbi highlighted Katz's intense focus during Torah study, where he would face the wall to avoid distractions, embodying a sense of mission that extended into his army duties.

Reflecting on the significance of recovering Katz's body, Rabbi Bar drew a parallel to Moses carrying Joseph's bones out of Egypt, emphasizing that true redemption requires bringing all remnants home. He praised Katz as a role model for the path of an immigrant's son who fully embraced his duty to Israel.