Sergeant Yona: 23, Combat Medic with Unmatched Passion

A Hero’s Final Journey

Sgt. First Class Yona Brief, a 23-year-old combat medic in the elite Duvdevan unit, passed away on November 26, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with injuries sustained during a mission against Hamas on October 7, 2023. His journey began when he and his fellow soldiers were deployed to the heavily affected Kibbutz Kfar Aza. There, they engaged in fierce combat while working to protect and save the residents of the community.

During their operation, Yona’s commander, Maj. Ben Bronshtein, and his comrade, Sgt. First Class Amir Fisher, were fatally wounded. In an act of bravery, Yona rushed to assist them but was shot 13 times in his legs, back, and arms. Despite his severe injuries, he managed to apply tourniquets to himself and drag himself to safety. However, it took several hours before he could be airlifted to the Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, where he would spend the next 417 days fighting for his life.

Throughout his hospitalization, Yona underwent more than 20 surgeries, had both of his legs amputated above the knee, and spent part of his time in a medically induced coma. Yet, even in the face of such adversity, he remained a source of inspiration. He entertained visitors from around the world, sang, prayed, and offered hope to those who came to see him. He even attended the brit mila of his nephew from his hospital bed, showing his unwavering spirit and connection to family.

Despite his remarkable resilience, Yona’s condition eventually deteriorated. His liver failed, and he passed away at 6:29 a.m. on November 26, 2024. He was laid to rest the following day on Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, where he is survived by his parents, Hazel and David, as well as his five older siblings: Nava, Micha, Yasmina, Libi, and Aviel.

A Life Filled with Passion and Purpose

Born in Jerusalem to American immigrant parents, Yona was the youngest of his family and grew up in Modiin. He attended a yeshiva high school, was actively involved in his local Bnei Akiva group, and volunteered with children with special needs. His love for music shone through as he played the piano and guitar, and he also enjoyed cooking, hiking across Israel, and engaging in carpentry and woodwork.

After completing high school, Yona spent 18 months at the Bnei David pre-military academy in the West Bank settlement of Ma’ale Efraim. In April 2021, he joined the IDF and achieved his dream of serving in the elite Duvdevan unit. He later completed training as a combat medic, a role that defined much of his military career.

In May 2023, Yona was seriously injured during an operation in the West Bank, requiring a week of hospitalization followed by three months of recovery. He returned to Duvdevan in September 2023, determined to continue his service.

A Family’s Grief and Strength

At Yona’s funeral, his mother, Hazel, shared heartfelt words about her son. “417 days ago, Yona, my sweet, dear child, you went to save our beautiful country and its brave citizens,” she said. Over the past year, she described how Yona’s hospital room became a place filled with warmth and joy. “There were schnitzel and pita on Fridays, weightlifting workouts, sushi nights, TED talks, karaoke, and of course soulful and musical kabbalat Shabbat—music, love, laughter, and joy.”

Hazel reflected on Yona’s strength, noting that after waking up from his initial hospitalization, he asked for his tefillin from his hospital bed. “You inspired so many people around the world,” she said. Now, she expressed that the family would carry forward his passion for pushing limits, his zest for life, and his optimism during difficult times. “We are a bruised and aching family… but we are stronger now because of your fight.”

Yona’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering hope. His legacy continues to inspire those who knew him and those who learn of his journey.