Golani Fighter William Shakin Dies by Suicide in New York Amid Mental Health Struggles

William (Will) Shakin, an American volunteer who served as a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade's 13th Battalion and fought in the Gaza Strip, died by suicide in New York after suffering severe mental health deterioration. Shakin, who immigrated to Israel following the October 7 massacre and enlisted through the overseas volunteers program, struggled with psychological distress after his service but was never officially recognized as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

During his service, Shakin lived at "Benji's House," a center supporting lone soldiers, where staff maintained contact with his parents due to his declining condition. After completing his service, he returned to the United States and received close support until his arrival in New York, where Israeli military and defense ministry support ended.

Chaim Meizlish, a volunteer with "Nivut," an organization aiding lone soldiers with mental health issues in New York, stated that Shakin did not receive the necessary recognition or support during his service. The Defense Ministry required Shakin to return to Israel for official PTSD evaluations, a demand that posed significant challenges as it separated him from his family support system in the U.S. Meizlish also highlighted broader systemic issues, noting that about 1,200 cases of Israeli disabled veterans and PTSD sufferers reside in the U.S., but only two Defense Ministry representatives handle their claims, resulting in limited access to benefits and rehabilitation.

Following Shakin's death, his parents are seeking to bury him in Israel's military cemetery on Mount Herzl. However, their request faces legal and public opposition from the Defense Ministry, partly because Shakin was not officially classified as a combat PTSD victim. The family accuses the ministry of shirking responsibility. Meanwhile, Minister Ofir Sofer has pledged to assist the family in their efforts to bring Shakin's body to Israel for burial.