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Maj. (Res.) Benji (Benjamin) Trakeniski (32) z”l
An alumnus of the Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy & Strategy at Reichman University, was killed in battle on October 7th, 2023, while fighting to save dozens of civilians in Kibbutz Be’eri. A dedicated military officer in the 7th Division, he rushed to his base and deployed south, despite being off duty. He and his team were the first to enter Be’eri, eliminating terrorists and rescuing nearly 50 wounded civilians. Benji was engaged to Rotem Simon, and they were planning their wedding for April. At his funeral, she tearfully read out the vows she had written for their wedding.
A true leader, Benji was a pillar of the Reichman University community, volunteering to support students serving in the IDF reserves. His younger sister, Sharon, described him as a big brother to all, a man whose kindness and dedication left a lasting impact. Their father, Israel, recalled Benji’s lifelong generosity—from donating his pocket money at age five to volunteering with children with disabilities at age seven. He lived by his motto, “Be strong,” which his family now clings to in his absence. Benji is survived by his fiancée, Rotem, his father, Israel, his mother, Liz Trakeniski Bennett, and his sister, Sharon.
