'Destined for greatness': Remembering Eitan Koplovich

Four years ago, Koplowitz married Yael, and a year ago, their son, Boaz, was born. The couple studied law at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and lived in the capital city. 

Captain Eitan Koplovich fell in combat in the Gaza Strip. June 15, 2024. (photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
Captain Eitan Koplovich fell in combat in the Gaza Strip. June 15, 2024.
(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The IDF announced on Sunday that Capt. (res.) Eitan Koplovich, 28, from Jerusalem, a combat officer in the 129th Battalion, had been killed in combat in the northern Gaza Strip.

The military noted that in the incident in which Koplovich and Chief Warrant Officer (res.) Elon Waiss, 49 were killed, two soldiers from the 8th Brigade were seriously wounded and transferred to a hospital for medical treatment.

Speaking with Kan News, Koplovich’s uncle said that his nephew “was destined for greatness. He excelled in everything – in the officers’ course and at the university. He was a humble man whom his soldiers adored. He was a leader. Two weeks ago, they entered Gaza. And he didn’t hesitate for a moment.”

IDF publishes the names of the soldiers killed in Gaza on June 15, 2024. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
IDF publishes the names of the soldiers killed in Gaza on June 15, 2024. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

Koplovich leaves behind two parents, a wife, and a child.

'Destined for greatness'

When he concluded his studies at the Sde Yaakov yeshiva high school, he worked as a youth group counselor (madrich) in Bnei Akiva, where he was well loved and appreciated. He continued his studies at the Otniel yeshiva and was then drafted into the Armored Corps.