Sister Remembers Fallen Soldier Guy Shabtay, Two Years On

Merav Sham Tov spoke about her brother, Sergeant First Class (Res.) Guy Shabtay, who fell in service nearly two years ago. She described how the passage of time has only deepened the family's longing for him, stating, "The more time passes, the more we miss him." Sham Tov emphasized that everyday occurrences remind them of Guy, and that the family is committed to keeping his memory alive through participation in memorial ceremonies and other events.

Guy Shabtay, who was born in Ramat Gan and later lived in Jerusalem, had a diverse life path. He was a promising young footballer who played in youth leagues in Israel and later in college leagues in the United States, even receiving outstanding athlete status during his military service. However, he later underwent a religious transformation, returned to Israel, married, and started a family.

Despite his new life, Shabtay felt a strong desire to serve as a combat soldier, a role he did not fulfill during his initial service. In reserve duty, he actively sought to be a combatant. During fighting in Lebanon, he was severely wounded in an incident that also injured other soldiers.

His family endured two weeks of intense hope and prayer following his injury. "We believed Guy would live," Merav said, recalling their faith in Israeli medicine. Despite initial signs of recovery, the severe injuries ultimately proved fatal. Since his death, the family has sought various ways to honor his memory, including volunteering, preparing sandwiches for soldiers, and organizing football games in his name.

The unit in which Shabtay served has maintained a strong connection with the family, providing support and ensuring his memory is not forgotten. Merav described the soldiers and commanders as becoming like family, frequently meeting with them and remaining deeply connected to Guy's legacy.