Golan Shuker

The soldiers in the Military Rabbinate are no strangers to tough, intricate work seeped with emotional challenges. However, the task they were assigned on October 7th was beyond anyone's comprehension. They received dozens, then hundreds, and ultimately thousands of bodies, some in an extremely difficult condition. They were tasked with the responsibility of handling the bodies, supporting their identification, and assisting grieving families in the process of burial and finding solace.

Golan Shuker, whose role is supporting the Security Officer at Bar-Ilan University, was drafted for army service just hours after the onset of the Iron Swords War, as a Logistics Officer in the Military Rabbinate, supporting the casualty identification efforts. "A Logistics Officer plays a pivotal role - my team and I ensure all the needs of the soldiers engaged in casualty identification are met, allowing the system to operate at its utmost efficiency," Shuker explains. “The logistics framework is the cornerstone enabling their operation, and I'm there to lend a hand and stand by those dedicated to this sacred mission, offering support in every conceivable way."

Coping with the harsh realities and grim news is an immense challenge, especially for those witnessing it firsthand. Nevertheless, Shuker attests that he manages to draw inspiration from the shared burden. "It's an unprecedented event, one that defies imagination. Our ability to cope with it depends on the dedication of countless people, their giving and full engagement, from both soldiers and civilians. The assistance pouring in from all directions bolsters our resolve to persevere. We're all navigating this trying period, reinforcing one another, and trying to provide the impacted families with a sanctuary to grieve and find comfort."

Israel has experienced social dissent in recent times. Now, however, Shuker is heartened by witnessing the collaboration within the military sphere, bridging the gap between secular and ultra-Orthodox communities. "In our unit, I've had the privilege of working alongside many dedicated people from the ultra-Orthodox sector. They're shouldering an incredibly demanding responsibility, wholeheartedly committed to providing their support. Their contribution is invaluable; they play a crucial role in giving families a place to mourn and remember their loved ones, despite being exposed to some of the most harrowing scenes imaginable."

In addition to his military duties, Shuker and his colleagues also attend to matters at home. This is especially significant given that his wife, Dr. Pnina Shuker, who recently completed her doctorate at Bar-Ilan University, has also been called up for military service at Tel Hashomer. "I'm fortunate to have my mother lending us a hand. When I return home for a brief interlude, my focus is spending time with our children, setting aside the weight of our circumstances, and relish in shared moments as much as possible."

These days, many of Shuker's colleagues in the Security Department are being called up, many of them assuming combat roles. "We maintain a steadfast

connection with eachother. The security personnel of the university are united front across all ranks," Shuker shared, emphasizing: "I feel our collective strength and unity. Despite the uncertainties, I remain focused on the tasks at hand, which helps me look ahead during this critical period. The knowledge that the entire nation stands firmly behind us gives us the fortitude to go on".