Widow of Fallen IDF Commander Enters Officer Training Course

Ariel Ben Shimon, widow of Lieutenant Colonel Dor Ben Shimon, who was killed in Lebanon, is embarking on the same command course her husband was pursuing. Dor, known as 'Dubash,' commanded the 52nd Armored Battalion and was killed by an explosive drone two months into his command. His wife, Ariel, herself a distinguished officer, had encouraged him to continue his service, pushing him to become a battalion commander.

The couple, who met in the military eight years ago, shared a deep connection rooted in their military careers. Ariel, who served as deputy commander of a reconnaissance battalion, recalled a friendly rivalry over promotions, with her initially outranking Dor. She recounts the bittersweet moment of pinning his lieutenant colonel rank on him, just before he surpassed her in rank.

Dor had initially planned to leave the military for a career in informal education, but Ariel urged him to stay, wanting them to experience command roles together. He found fulfillment in his role, balancing studies with being a father to their two young daughters, Ayala, 3, and Gaia, 1.5.

Dor was the fourth commander of the 52nd Battalion since October 7th, stepping in after previous commanders were wounded. He led the battalion for two months, including operations across the Litani River, before his tank was struck by an explosive drone, killing him and three crew members. Dor hailed from Kibbutz Beit Hashita, a community with a deep connection to military service and loss.

Despite her profound grief, Ariel is determined to continue their shared path. She stated that Dor would have been proud of her decision to attend the commanders' course, encouraging her to 'go for it' and fulfill her potential. She remains committed to their shared life and to raising their daughters, honoring Dor's memory.