Chen G. Schimmel is an Israeli photojournalist whose documentation of October 7 and the months that adopted constitutes an necessary visible report. This sequence contains excerpts from her first guide, October seventh | Bearing Witness gives a visible and written account of the primary yr after the assault.
I’m penning this on my method to the bottom. If you are studying this proper now, it means one thing occurred to me. But you recognize, I’m in all probability the happiest I’ve ever been.
I used to be standing on the sting of a dream, very near it. I’m grateful for the chance to guard this stunning land and the individuals of Israel. If one thing occurs, do not let unhappiness eat you. I used to be dwelling my goals and attaining my objectives, and I’m certain I’ll be watching you from above with a smile on my face.
I sit with Grandpa and we hear to one another’s tales and discuss what has modified throughout the conflict. We would possibly discuss politics, and perhaps I’ll ask Grandpa what he thinks. And if you’re sitting Shiva, let or not it’s a gathering of laughter, family and friends. Food ought to be – meat, after all – beer, comfortable drinks, sunflower seeds, tea and undoubtedly mother’s cookies. Tell tales, share reminiscences, snort collectively, and meet all the chums you have not met but.
I want we may sit there collectively and see everybody collectively.
There is one last item that is essential to me. If I’m captured, not a single soldier or civilian ought to be harmed, useless or alive, to carry me again. Don’t marketing campaign for me. Don’t protest. Do not launch terrorists in my identify. Please respect this request.
Once once more, I left dwelling with pleasure and a deep sense of obligation, although I used to be not known as as much as serve within the reservists. I’ve at all times stated that if you must die, please die to guard others and this nation. Jerusalem, I’ve entrusted you with my guard, and sometime I wish to be one in every of them.
Sergeant First Class Ben Zasman Zulu (Res.), killed in motion in northern Gaza on December 3, 2023.
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