Colonel Asaf Hamami, killed on October 7, is considered the first soldier to declare when Israel went to war. “Guys, we’re at war. We’re at war,” he declared shortly before his death.
Hamami, who was serving as the head of the IDF Gaza Division's Southern Brigade, rushed to Kibbutz Nirim on the morning of October 7, where he was killed by terrorists and his body taken hostage. He was the highest-ranking officer whose body was taken into Gaza.
Born to Ilan and Clara, Hamami grew up in Rosh Ha’ayin in the central district of Israel, where he attended Begin High School. He enlisted in the IDF in 2001, where he underwent training and eventually became a team commander. In 2010, he received a citation from then-chief of staff Gabi Ashkenazi.
According to Kan 7.10.360, a digital memorial project of October 7, when Hamami reached Kibbutz Nirim with fellow soldiers Tomer Ahimas and Kiril Brodsky, he immediately recognized the extent of the situation, quickly calling on his radio, “Guys, we’re at war. We’re at war.”
Hamami was then wounded by terrorists and was carried to a shelter by Ahimas and Brodsky, where they simultaneously fought terrorists while trying to survive. A shooting battle ensued in which the three soldiers faced dozens of terrorists at once. At 7:05 a.m., Ahimas sent his last live signal to the base, asking for help for his commander.
Hamami: A great friend whose love will live on forever
Hamami is survived by his wife and three children. He is described as a “great friend who cared for his soldiers and whose love will live on forever,” according to Friends of the IDF, an organization that “champions soldiers of the IDF.” After his death, the Assaf Lovers Association was established, an organization that provides support for reservists.
Through personal and group support, the organization helps soldiers lead successful lives after service. According to the organization, Col. Assaf Hamami “left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him.” He had a “captivating personality” and led with courage, tirelessly dedicating himself to others. They continue to say that he served as an example of what it meant to live a life based on “love for people and the country, courage and compassion.”
To commemorate his memory, the “Asaf” school in Rosh Ha’ayin is the Psagot Afek neighborhood was named in tribute to him. Additionally, the Petah Tikvah Municipality named a bridge in the Em Moshavot neighborhood after him. His memory continues to live on through the song “Migdalor,” which was sung by Saar Twito and whose music video was produced with help from Hamami’s wife, Sapir. The video features Sapir and Hamami’s three children.