In April 2022, Yamam received a critical mission to apprehend a highly dangerous and wanted terrorist responsible for numerous successful attacks.
The operation, situated just outside of Jenin, took an unexpected turn when one of Yamam’s leading commanders, Commander S., was shot and severely injured.
On the scene, Noam Dov Raz, a Yamam paramedic, operator, and sniper, valiantly tended to Commander S. with the limited resources available in the field. Despite the severity of the injuries, Noam’s dedicated efforts ensured that Commander S. reached the hospital in critical condition but still breathing. Commander S. underwent a lengthy recovery period, facing moments of uncertainty, yet eventually healed and returned to Yamam in a new role, coordinating missions from a desk.
Just 3 weeks after the initial mission in Jenin, on May 13, 2022, during another perilous operation, tragedy struck. Noam Raz, the Yamam paramedic who had played a crucial role in saving Commander S.’s life, was shot and killed.
At the age of 47, Noam left behind a grieving family of 6 children, a loving wife, a supportive community and fellow unit members mourning the loss of a dedicated comrade and friend.
Noam’s legacy in Yamam spanned an impressive 23 years of service. Known for his unparalleled humility, he never boasted about his remarkable achievements. Noam’s calm demeanor made him unflappable, impossible to provoke, and his love for people and country was evident in his selfless actions. Always the first to volunteer, Noam extended his assistance not only within the unit but also in Mada (the Israeli equivalent to the Red Cross), where he dedicated himself to saving lives.
The news of Noam’s death brought a profound heartbreak to the unit, a pain they had hoped never to face.
In a poignant twist of fate, a year later, Commander S. and his wife welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world, naming him Noam Dov, a fitting tribute to the man who had played a pivotal role in saving Commander S.’s life.
