Chen G. Schimmel is an Israeli photojournalist whose documentation of October 7th and the months that followed has become an important visual record. This series includes excerpts from her first book, October 7th | Bearing Witness, which creates a visual and written account of the first year after the attacks.
Proceeds go to the SUMMIT Institute for Trauma and Post-Trauma Recovery. For more information: https://www.chengschimmel.com/
I’m writing this on my way to the base. If you’re reading it now, it means something has happened to me. But as you know, I’m probably the happiest I’ve ever been.
I was standing on the edge of my dream, so close to it. I’m grateful for the chance to protect this beautiful land and the people of Israel. If something does happen, don’t let sorrow consume you. I was living my dream, fulfilling my purpose, and you can be sure I’m watching over you from above, smiling.
I’ll be sitting with Grandpa, catching up – each of us telling stories of what’s changed between wars. Maybe we’ll even talk politics, and I’ll ask Grandpa what he thinks. And if, God forbid, you’re sitting shiva, let it be a gathering of laughter, friends, and family. There should be food – meat, of course – beer, soft drinks, sunflower seeds, tea, and definitely Mom’s cookies. Tell stories, share memories, laugh together, and meet all my friends who you haven’t yet met.
I wish I could sit there with you, seeing everyone together.
There’s one last thing, something deeply important to me: if I’m captured, dead or alive, not one soldier or civilian should be harmed to bring me back. Don’t campaign for me. Don’t protest. No terrorists should be freed in my name. Please, honor this request.
I’ll say it once more: I left home even though I was not called up for reserve duty, but I left with pride and a profound sense of mission. I have always said that if I must die, let it be in the defense of others and this country. Jerusalem, I’ve entrusted you with guards, and one day, I hope to be among them.
Sergeant First Class (Res.), Ben Zussman z”l fell in battle in northern Gaza on December 3rd, 2023