IDF Soldier Yehuda Katz's Remains Return After 44 Years to Karmey Binyamina Yeshiva

The Karmey Binyamina Hesder Yeshiva marked the return of Yehuda Katz, an IDF armor officer and its alumnus, whose remains were found 44 years after he went missing in the Battle of Sultan Yaakov during the 1982 Lebanon War. Rabbi Aharon Friedman, head of the yeshiva, described how Katz's memory was preserved at the school through daily prayers, his personal study materials, and a dedicated library and essay contest in his name. Katz's empty bed and belongings remained untouched for years, symbolizing the community's ongoing hope for his return.

Rabbi Friedman, who joined the yeshiva about a decade after the battle, said Katz's presence was deeply felt by students who saw themselves as part of a family waiting for him. Katz was remembered as a devoted Torah scholar and soldier, embodying dedication to both study and service to Israel. The day before leaving for war, Katz completed a Talmudic tractate with his study partner, Rabbi Mordechai Greenberg, now the yeshiva president.

The funeral procession will begin Friday at the yeshiva and proceed to the military section of Jerusalem's Mount of Olives Cemetery. Rabbi Friedman acknowledged the pain of the long wait but expressed solace that Katz would finally be laid to rest in Israel. Katz's story remains integral to the yeshiva's history and continues to inspire future generations of students.