Family Marks 20 Years Since IDF Officer Beniya Rein's Death with Emotional Tribute

The Rein family commemorated 20 years since the death of IDF Captain Beniya Rein, who fell during the Second Lebanon War, with a special memorial event on Sunday. The family released a moving video titled "Continuing to Walk," featuring relatives, close friends, and dozens of children named after Rein, highlighting his enduring legacy and the growth that has emerged from the pain.

Beniya Rein had formed an improvised rescue unit during the war, known as "Beniya Force," using two D-9 tanks and armored personnel carriers. Although initially told by his battalion commander to go home, Rein insisted on staying until northern residents could safely return. His unit operated independently under various brigade commanders, conducting supply and rescue missions, evacuating wounded soldiers under fire, and delivering ammunition.

Rein was killed on August 12, 2006, when a Hezbollah anti-tank missile struck his tank en route to another rescue mission in Harbat al-Kasif, killing all crew members instantly. For his bravery and dedication, he was posthumously awarded a commendation by the regional division commander.

His mother, Hagit Rein, shared her painful experience receiving the news and her ongoing mission to support bereaved families. She recalled a poignant memory of seeing Beniya at a fellow soldier's funeral before his death, which gave her comfort and strength.

The memorial event and video emphasize the continuation of Rein's values of devotion, responsibility, and love for Israel, embodied by the many children named in his honor and the families influenced by his legacy.