AFU669’s Annual Tribute Honors Heroism of Unit 669 Members

AFU669’s Annual Tribute Honors Heroism of Unit 669 Members

Edited by: TJVNews.com

Last week, the American Friends of Unit 669 (AFU669) held its Annual Event of Tribute, recognizing the bravery and sacrifices of the heroes of Unit 669. This year’s gathering was especially poignant, reflecting on the unit’s critical missions since October 7th that have continued to save lives under extreme conditions.

The evening paid special tribute to Sergeant Major (Res.) Daniel Alloush (37) and Sergeant Major (Res.) Tom Ish-Shalom (38), who tragically lost their lives in a recent helicopter crash in Gaza. A moment of silence was held to honor the memories of nine Unit 669 soldiers who have lost their lives since the war began.

The keynote speakers at the AFU669 Gala included Eugene MD and Elenora Orloff, event co-chairs; Israeli Arab activist Yoseph Haddad, rescued by Unit 669 during the Second Lebanon War; Lieutenant Colonel D.S., commander of Unit 669 during the Swords of Iron War; and Colonel (Res.) Dr. Nachshon Knoller, MD, former Chief Medical Officer and Surgeon General of the Northern Command and Unit 669 commander from 1985 to 1987; Captain (Res.) Bar Reuven, co-founder and Executive Director of AFU669. Jewish influencer Lizzy Savetsky performed the national anthem. The evening featured performances by sand artist Ilana Yahav and Sergeant Major (Res.) Dan Yahav, with Israeli journalist Tal Heinrich hosting the event.

Captain (Res.) Bar Reuven, Co-Founder and Executive Director of AFU669, shared heartfelt words: “This gathering is a reaffirmation of our commitment to each member of Unit 669- those with us today and those who have paid the ultimate price. Every day, our soldiers demonstrate extraordinary bravery and skill, and it’s our mission to ensure that they and their families receive the support they deserve. Together, we continue to uphold the values of courage, sacrifice, and solidarity that define our community.”

The American Friends of Unit 669 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. They were established to support the veterans and welfare of the soldiers of the IDF’s elite Unit 669. Unit 669 has always stood ready to spring into action 24/7. And since October 7, the dedication of these brave soldiers has resulted in countless life-saving missions, each one more extraordinary than the last. Unit 669’s mission is to rescue casualties- both soldiers and civilians- anywhere and under any condition, whether inside enemy territory, under hostile fire, or during civilian emergencies.

For those who couldn’t attend but wish to support AFU669’s cause, you can do so by visiting: https://www.afu669.org/donate