"I'm writing you this message on the way to the base. If you're reading this, something must have happened to me.
As you know me, there's probably no one happier than me right now. It wasn't just that I was on the verge of fulfilling my dream soon. I'm happy and grateful for the privilege of protecting our beautiful country and the people of Israel.
Even if something happens to me, I don't allow you to sink into sadness. I had the privilege of fulfilling my dream and destiny and you can be sure that I am looking down on you with a huge smile. I will probably sit next to my grandfather and we will bridge some gaps, everyone will tell about their experiences and what has changed between wars. Maybe we'll also talk a little politics, ask him what he thinks.
If God forbid you sit shiva (יושבים שבעה),
Then make it a week full of friends, family and fun!
Bring food, meat, beers, sweets, grains, tea and, of course, my mother's cookies!
Joke around and tell stories, meet all my other friends you haven't met yet.
I’ll be jealous of you!
I would have liked to join and see them all.
Another very, very important point:
If God forbid I fall into the hands of the enemy, alive or dead:
I absolutely DO NOT give my permission to negotiate any deal to release me.
I DO NOT allow you to harm even a single soldier or citizen as a result of an exchange deal.
I DO NOT allow you to conduct any media campaign or anything like that for my release.
I DO NOT allow any terrorist to be released for me in no way, shape or form.
Don't break my words.
Please.
Let me say it again,
I left my house without even being called in for the reserves.
I am full of pride and sense of purpose.
I have always said that if I have to die I want it to be for the defense of others and for my country.
Jerusalem, I have placed guards on the walls,
One day I will be one of them."
— Ben Zussman
Fallen defending his country, Israel.