Memorial Service Honors Omer Neutra (23), American-Israeli Hamas Hostage Confirmed Murdered on October 7
Thousands gathered Tuesday morning, December 3, 2024, at a memorial service in Syosset, NY, to honor Omer Neutra (23) of Plainview, Long Island. The service came one day after his family received confirmation that Israeli intelligence had determined Omer was killed during the October 7, 2023 Hamas terror attack on southern Israel.
NY Governor Kathy Hochul, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and family members of other hostages from both the US and Israel joined the overflowing crowd to support the Neutra family.
Omer Neutra’s, mother in her emotional speech said that: “My strong smiley boy. I pled for a sign of life. I didn’t get any. Instead, we received signs of hope and love from all over the world. Your void is big whole in my stomach. Our beautiful boy, so much love and innocence.”
Ronen Neutra, father said: “We spoke about you in so many places. Telling Omer’s story. The hostages story. We called on world leaders, to countries leaders to save Omer, to save the others. We were told Omer gave courageous commands to other soldiers and saved their lives. Omer you are a hero. Omer decided to serve. It’s my turn to show my love to Israel in actions and not just in words, Omer said. His memory must be a blessing. Rest in peace my boy, my beautiful son. We will never forget you גיבור ישראל (trans. ‘Hero of Israel’).”
Daniel Neutra, brother urged: “There are families that can still be saved. The greatest honor we can give Omer is to save the life of people he gave his life to protect”
