Staff Sgt. Sahar Elbaz is a recently released lone soldier from the IDF’s Givati Brigade. During Operation Protective Edge, Sgt. Elbaz and his unit came under attack in Rafah, in the Gaza Strip. Ignoring his commander’s order to take cover, Elbaz returned fire, overcame a jam in his weapon, and eliminated four of the five attacking terrorists. Describing the event, one of his commanders said, “Sahar’s story will be taught at commanders’ courses for many years to come.”

Elbaz arrived in Israel, on his own, from the USA four years ago, and immediately joined the Givati Brigade, where he served as a combat soldier in the Rimon unit. Elbaz was one of only five soldiers to receive the chief of staff’s citation in Operation Protective Edge, which was bestowed upon him for his bravery, resourcefulness and fortitude.

Sahar made Aliyah in 2012 from the USA.