Or Brandes

Born on 25 Tishrei 5759 (15 October 1998). Raised in Shoham, son of Simcha and Meir, and the younger brother of Barak and Sapir.

After graduating from high school, he studied at the Ma’ale Gilboa Yeshiva. He then enlisted in the Armored Corps, completed the Tank Commanders Course, and served as a training non-commissioned officer.

After completing his military service, he joined a Garin community group in Acre, traveled in India and Thailand, and began studying philosophy and psychology at Ben-Gurion University. During his studies, he volunteered with various nonprofit organizations in Be’er Sheva. Or touched the hearts of many and left a profound impression on everyone who met him.

After the ceasefire ended, on the night between Friday and Saturday, during the Torah portion *Vayishlach* (2 December 2023 / 19 Kislev 5784), his company was assigned a mission in the Khan Younis area. After the mission was completed, Or was killed by sniper fire.

Or was warm, cheerful, and sociable – a man who loved peace and pursued peace. He was deeply loved and surrounded by many friends.

At every social or family gathering, Or was at the center – making people laugh, showing genuine interest in others, listening attentively, and spreading light and warmth wherever he went. He was deeply devoted to his family and was a beloved and loving son, brother, and uncle.

In his multifaceted personality, Or combined depth and attentiveness to every person with a joyful spirit and a playful sense of humor.

May his soul be bound in the bond of eternal life.