Corporal Itay’s great-grandfather, Dr. Mishka Hertz, survived the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. When the Nazis discovered that he was a doctor, they allowed him to work in a labor camp and treat both Jewish prisoners and Nazi soldiers. He was given a white and red armband to signify his medical profession.
This week, Cpl. Itay finished his training as a paramedic in the Golani Brigade. Throughout the 33-mile march to receive his brown Golani beret, he proudly wore the armband that saved his great-grandfather’s life.
Dr. Hertz survived the Holocaust, allowing future generations to live freely and proudly in the State of Israel. Today, Corporal Itay continues his grandfather’s medical legacy as he officially starts treating soldiers in the IDF!