Israeli Officer Shahar Bozaglo Remembered 11 Months After Death with Four Babies Named in His Honor

Eleven months after the death of Lieutenant Colonel Shahar Netanel Bozaglo, a company commander in the 77th Battalion of the 7th Brigade, his memory continues to inspire family and comrades. Bozaglo was killed in combat in Gaza on September 22, 2025, just three weeks before the return of all hostages. His son, Ivri, was born after his death and is one of five babies named after him within the extended family and close friends during this period.

Last week, family members, commanders, soldiers, and friends gathered at the cemetery in Migdal HaEmek and then at the "Ayelet HaShahar" synagogue, which was named in his honor. Bozaglo, 27, was known as an exceptional leader who grew up in a traditional home, studied at the "Tikvat Yaakov" yeshiva and the Ein Prat preparatory program, and insisted on joining the Armored Corps. On October 7, 2023, despite being in a study period and not assigned to an organic unit, he went south, joined other tank soldiers, formed an improvised tank crew, and fought for four consecutive days.

His mother, Osnat Zohar Ben David, spoke emotionally at his grave, describing the ongoing internal dialogue she has with her son and the struggle to cope with his loss. His widow, Adi, marked the day by recalling the gift she gave him four years earlier when he proposed, reflecting on the pain and her determination to keep moving forward for their son Ivri.

The 77th Battalion commander delivered a eulogy addressed to Ivri, praising Bozaglo's courage and leadership, noting his willingness to fight without hesitation on October 7. The 7th Brigade commander highlighted Bozaglo’s legacy as a model for armored corps commanders and said his spirit continues to inspire troops, especially during current fighting in Lebanon.

At the synagogue, participants met with members of the "Tzav HaChaim" forum, which unites bereaved families, released captives, and wounded soldiers, including Osnat. The synagogue itself symbolizes the community’s resilience, having been established as a permanent structure after years of praying in a tent. Four babies named after Bozaglo have been born: Natan (named after his middle name), Maayan-Shahar (named by his younger sister), Erez-Shahar (named by his twin sister), and Amichai-Shahar, whose name was inspired by a dream involving Bozaglo and a close friend blessing the newborn.