Soldier awarded for stopping terrorist
Soldier awarded for stopping terroristIsrael news photo

A soldier holding the rank of Corporal, was awarded 1,800 shekels ($475) by the SOS Save the Land of Israel group Sunday for shooting a terrorist who tried to kill two Jews at a gas station 10 days ago.   

The “Hero of Israel” prize, given to those who eliminate terrorists, was awarded to Private Tzachi Kurtzi, who followed training procedures and shot at the legs of the terrorist, who later was killed when the husband of one of the victims of  the axe and knife attack ran over the terrorist.

The attack occurred at a gas station at the entrance to Kiryat Arba-Hevron, located approximately 35 miles south of Jerusalem.

Kurtzi revealed at the award ceremony in Jerusalem that he was able to save the lives of the victims, and perhaps others, because a bus failed to stop for him. Speakers at the ceremony noted that Kurzti is from the Nachshon Battalion, which includes several soldiers who were thrown out of combat service, jailed or ordered to stay on base for 30 days for raising signs proclaiming that their unit does not expel Jew from their homes.

The protest actions occurred after the IDF participated with Border Police to force Jews from their homes in two communities in Judea and Samaria. Kurtzi’s mother said, “My soldier demonstrated a lot of courage; they do not evacuate or expel Jews but rather help the government of Israel. The People of Israel live forever."

Rabbi David Wolpe, chairman of SOS called on citizens to be alert to terrorist attacks.