Shlomi Levi

This is not a scene from a movie. This is October 7. Aner came from Jerusalem to the Nova festival. He would become the hero of a story of almost superhuman strength and unimaginable bravery. On October 7, he was dancing with friends - for freedom, love, and life. A magical smile. Starry eyes. When the rocket barrages began, Aner and around 30 others who had fled the festival took shelter in a bomb shelter. They had no idea that within minutes, terrorists would arrive and they would be fighting for their lives. Aner kept his cool and did not hesitate. He stood alone at the entrance to the shelter. He knew there was nowhere to run. Armed terrorists were outside. The first grenade was thrown inside - Aner caught it and threw it back out. Then the second. Again and again, with his bare hands. Eight times. One man against a group of armed terrorists - and he stopped them. He stood there protecting the others with his own body, giving his life for them. The ninth grenade exploded. The terrorists continued throwing grenades and then opened fire on the wounded. Almost everyone inside the shelter was murdered. Some were kidnapped to Gaza. A few survived and later told the story of Aner's heroism - heroism that was also captured on the terrorists' own cameras. If your grandchildren ever ask, tell them this: Thousands of Nukhba terrorists were armed from head to toe with rifles, grenades, and RPGs - yet none of them had the courage Aner had. Tell them he pursued justice. Tell them he sanctified life. Tell them about his kindness. Aner fell in battle - a battle no one had prepared him for, yet he fought like a giant. His spirit, courage, and bravery will stay with us forever. His place is among giants. This is the last image of him, at the bottom right - standing alone at the entrance to the shelter, waiting for the monsters. The truth cannot be erased. Don't you dare forget.