Rising Sergeant (posthumously) Omer Balva, 22, Herzliya - USA

Omer, may his memory be a blessing, served as a combat soldier in the IDF's Golani Brigade, and fell in battle on the northern border from Hezbollah fire. He fell on the 6th of Cheshvan, 20th October 2023.
Omer was born and raised in the USA. About 8 years ago, his older sister Shahar decided to make Aliyah and enlist as a combat soldier. Immediately following her, inspired by her, Omer participated in a Masa program, made Aliyah with Garin Tzabar, and enlisted in the Golani Brigade. Following the two children, the parents also immigrated back to Israel with the youngest son.
Omer studied in a Jewish school in the USA, was active in sports, and played soccer. The family describes him as a smart and sociable child, very active socially in school and in the community. They talk about his Zionism, which burned in him since he was a child, the desire to contribute to the State of Israel and join the IDF.