Master Sgt. Eliyahu Michael Harush, a dedicated police officer at the Sderot station, tragically lost his life in a conflict with Hamas infiltrators.
According to The Times of Israel, on October 7, during an early morning attack, the Sderot police station was overtaken, leading to its subsequent destruction by Israeli forces to neutralize the threat.
Eliyahu Michael Harush, only 28 years old, was the first responder from the station to fall that day.
He bravely confronted the terrorists, unaware that they had already infiltrated as far as Sderot following an alert from Zikim Beach.
Heroism and Sacrifice Marked by Loss
Eliyahu's youthful energy and dedication to his role were cut short outside the very station he vowed to protect.
The fierce skirmishes that ensued finally compelled Israeli forces to demolish the structure to quash the militants holed up within.
Two days after his untimely death, Eliyahu was laid to rest in Ashdod, leaving behind his wife, Hodaya, their three daughters, Lia, Ofri, and Noya, his parents, Racheli and Yitzhak, and six siblings.
His death prompted his younger brother, Elhanan Harush, to continue his legacy by enlisting in the police. Eliyahu's life and service reflect the sacrifices made by those committed to their nation's security and the values they hold dear.
Here is Elhanan speaking of his brother:
"Eliyahu's father, Yitzhak Harush, expressed the profound loss felt by the family. His dedication as an officer and loving nature as a person were highlighted by the grieving father."
Eliyahu’s Commitment Remembered
Eliyahu’s decision to join the Israel Police in 2020 came through Shahar, a program assisting ultra-Orthodox men in mandatory service, reflecting his desire to contribute despite personal challenges with traditional learning paths.
His wife, Hodaya, shared the depth of his dedication not only to his role but to nurturing her career, aiming to support Haredi women in distress.
She is committed to continuing the work Eliyahu began, in a role he was instrumental in her pursuing.
Eliyahu Harush’s story is one of bravery, dedication, and the ultimate sacrifice. His values and actions continue to inspire his family and community. For many, he remains a symbol of allegiance to both faith and nation.
