Soldier Recounts Losing Leg in Attack, Finds New Purpose

Ofir Anghelsman, a reservist soldier, described the moment he lost his leg during an attack in the Gush Etzion region. While on duty to protect travelers on Route 60, his unit attempted to prevent vehicles from accelerating towards them by creating a roadblock. However, a third vehicle broke through the blockade and rammed into Anghelsman. He recalled seeing the car accelerating towards him and realizing his life was about to change. In the seconds before impact, he thought of his family and prayed. After being hit, he fell and felt a severe blow to his head and back, followed by an intense burning sensation. He realized he had lost his leg and saw it lying on the side, prompting him to radio for immediate evacuation. The shooting continued around him even after he was hit.

Anghelsman was supposed to be in a different sector on October 7th but ended up in his current area due to a communication issue. He chose to remain in the area, fearing an attack in Judea and Samaria, despite many residents heading south. He and his wife, Shira, debated his return to combat in Gaza, but he ultimately decided to continue his duties near his home, hoping for less risk. However, reality proved different.

Since the attack, Anghelsman has undergone a lengthy rehabilitation process, describing it as a series of ups and downs. The periods surrounding surgeries were the most difficult, and he struggled with sleep in the initial months. He continues to experience daily pain from nerve damage and neuromas at the amputation site, which can occur without warning. He noted that the physical recovery is compounded by psychological challenges, exacerbating pre-existing issues with attention, concentration, and memory.

Anghelsman shared that his experience has altered his perspective on expressing his views. Previously reserved, he now feels more confident speaking out. He expressed strong support for the right-wing political bloc, urging voters to support figures like Smotrich, Netanyahu, and Ben Gvir, and to avoid parties that might not pass the electoral threshold. While critical of Prime Minister Netanyahu's decisions before October 7th, Anghelsman believes he is currently indispensable.

The attack brought back painful memories when he learned of Neria Dov Ben Chana, a childhood acquaintance from Shilo, being injured in a similar car ramming attack near the same junction where Anghelsman was wounded. He feels car ramming attacks are more frequent than publicly perceived. Anghelsman calls for a change in strategy, advocating for decisive action against terrorism and its perpetrators' environments to create a reality where terror is not profitable.

Transforming his personal response to the war and his injury, Anghelsman is spearheading the establishment of a 'warm corner' for soldiers and wounded individuals in the Hebron area. This space aims to provide support for soldiers serving in the region and for war casualties needing a supportive environment. He chose to launch the fundraising campaign around the anniversary of October 7th as a response to the day of massacres and casualties. Despite living with daily pain, Anghelsman seeks to build a place for others, emphasizing that every person facing challenges demonstrates heroism.