\n<\/p>\n
\u201cWe embrace Tomer\u2019s family, the wounded, and the bereaved families, and continue to pray for the return of Omri Miran and all 49 hostages still being held,” said Kibbutz Nahal Oz.<\/p>\n
Tomer Eliaz-Arava<\/a>, a 17-year-old from Kibbutz Nahal Oz who was murdered during the October 7 massacre, will posthumously receive Israel\u2019s highest civilian honor \u2014 the Civilian Medal of Valor. President Isaac Herzog<\/a> is expected to present the award at a ceremony at the President\u2019s Residence in about six weeks.<\/p>\n On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists infiltrated Kibbutz Nahal Oz, breaking into the Arava-Elikim family home. Tomer was taken hostage and held at gunpoint. The attackers forced him to knock on neighbors\u2019 doors in an attempt to lure them into opening. But Tomer, demonstrating extraordinary courage, found a way to warn the residents, telling them the homes were empty \u2014 a heroic act that saved multiple families.<\/p>\n Born on September 22, 2006, Tomer was the third child of Dikla and Maayan Eliaz and the brother of Odin and Stav. In a tribute posted by Kibbutz Nahal Oz on Facebook, he was described as \u201ca boy with a huge heart, full of life, who loved sports and his friends, and was always there for everyone.\u201d He was killed in the fighting at the kibbutz, just 17 years old.<\/p>\n \u201cHis remarkable memory stays with us,\u201d the kibbutz wrote. \u201cAs a hero, as a boy who stood face-to-face with his murderers and acted with composure. Above all, we will remember his magical smile, forever 17.\u201d<\/p>\n The post added a message of solidarity with all victims of the attack: \u201cWe embrace Tomer\u2019s family, the wounded, and the bereaved families, and continue to pray for the return of Omri Miran and all 49 hostages still being held.\u201d<\/p>\n