Chief Rabbi Kalman Meir Recalls Studying With Fallen Soldier Yehuda Katz Before His Burial in Israel

More than 40 years after his death and long absence from his family, IDF soldier Yehuda Yehuda Katz was finally laid to rest in Israel. Chief Rabbi Kalman Meir Bar, who studied alongside Katz at Kerem B'Yavneh yeshiva, visited the family to offer condolences and shared a poignant story that illustrates Katz's character. Rabbi Meir recalled the day Katz and his classmates were about to enlist in the IDF. Katz briefly entered the restroom but then returned to the study hall before boarding the bus to the base. When asked why, Katz replied, "You don’t go to the army from the restroom, you go from the study hall." This phrase has since become emblematic of his dedication to Torah and military service.

Rabbi Meir described how Katz’s connection between religious study and military duty defined him throughout his service. Katz was known for leading his fellow soldiers in joyful dances before missions, embodying both discipline and spirituality. The rabbi also noted Katz’s intense focus during study, often facing the wall to avoid distractions, a trait that carried into his army service.

During the shiva, Rabbi Meir reflected on the significance of Katz’s body being returned to Israel after four decades, likening it to the biblical story of Moses carrying Joseph’s bones during the Exodus. He emphasized that true redemption leaves no one behind. Katz’s burial in Jerusalem’s Mount of Olives cemetery closes a long chapter and honors his legacy as a model of a devoted immigrant soldier who defended the land he loved.