A decade ago, a poignant chapter began as young Israeli boy Amit Ben-Yigal celebrated his bar mitzvah at the Rebbe’s Ohel. Fast forward to the present month, and his father, Baruch, returns to the Ohel with his newborn child, named Or Chai, symbolically closing an emotional circle.
By Anash.org reporter
A decade ago, a poignant chapter began as young Israeli boy Amit Ben-Yigal celebrated his bar mitzvah at the Rebbe’s Ohel. Fast forward to the present month, and his father, Baruch, returns to the Ohel with his newborn child, named Or Chai, symbolically closing an emotional circle.
Amit, as an only child, chose to enlist in a combat unit, defying exemption. Tragically, in May 2020, a large stone dropped during an IDF raid took his life in the Arab village of Ya’abad. The nation mourned, witnessing Baruch’s heart-wrenching eulogy for his only son.
Determined to rebuild, Baruch remarried Daniella Afriat, and earlier this year, they welcomed a baby boy named Or Chai. Their story gained widespread media coverage, sharing both the sorrow and joy.
Several months later, Perry Hiiman, an Israeli-American businessman, philanthropist, and founder of the ‘Circle of Heroes’ organization, reached out to Baruch. Planning an event, Perry invited Baruch to share his story, and during the discussion, offered a trip to the Ohel.
This unexpected offer moved Baruch to tears, seeing it as a chance to close a circle. A few weeks later, accompanied by his new wife and infant Or, Baruch visited the Rebbe’s Ohel to pray and seek blessings for their family. Standing in the same spot where Amit once stood, Baruch held a Golani flag in tribute to his fallen son, creating a powerful and emotional moment.
During their visit to the Ohel, they unexpectedly encountered NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who posed for a photo with Baruch and the Golani flag. The trip continued with an address at the Circle of Heroes event and visits to New York’s famous attractions.
Reflecting on the experience, Perry Hiiman described it as a special and touching moment that filled him with deep joy. For Baruch, standing at the Rebbe’s Ohel with his new family and the memory of his older son made the entire trip profoundly worthwhile.
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