Senate Resolution No. 223 BY: Senator RHOADS MOURNING the tragic and untimely death of Omer Maxim Neutra on October 7, 2023 WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative Body records the passing of Omer Maxim Neutra, an extraordinary young man of indomitable faith and dedication whose short, yet purposeful life will long serve as a standard to which others might aspire; and WHEREAS, Omer Maxim Neutra, an American-Israeli citizen who was previously believed to be alive and held hostage in Gaza, was killed during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023; and WHEREAS, A beloved son to Ronen and Orna Neutra, Omer was a natural leader who made those around him better with his warmth and ability to engage and encourage others to be their best; he was deeply committed to both the people and land of Israel and immigrated to Israel out of that same deep commitment; and WHEREAS, Omer Maxim Neutra was a man of values, blessed with talents, and a Zionist in every aspect of his being; he enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), where he served as a tank platoon commander in Israel's 7th Armored Brigade's 77th Battalion; and WHEREAS, Omer Maxim Neutra fought fiercely as he led Israeli forces in a heroic battle near Nir Oz, a small kibbutz near Gaza in southern Israel, and one of the communities worst impacted by the terror attacks on October 7th; and WHEREAS, A native of Plainview, Long Island, Omer Maxim Neutra planned to return to the United States for college; he dreamed of dedicating himself to building peace; the grandson of Holocaust survivors, his family's strength and resilience has been carried through the generations; and WHEREAS, Omer Maxim Neutra, 21, loved sports, playing soccer, basketball, and volleyball, and served as the captain of his school's sports teams; he was a warm, optimistic, and caring individual who lit up the room the moment he entered; and WHEREAS, Omer Maxim Neutra represents the very best of our country, pledging his life to protect his fellow man; this Legislative Body sends its heartfelt condolences to the family members, loved ones, and friends who are grieving the tremendous loss of this brave soldier; our entire State and Nation stand with you, and we will never fail to honor his service, his legacy, and his sacrifice; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the tragic and untimely death of Omer Maxim Neutra; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Omer Maxim Neutra.