"Smiling at Hardship"

Sergeant Roei Peri, a fighter in the Golani Brigade, 13th Battalion, Company C "Night Predators", command platoon. Son of Ofer and Ronit, younger brother of Ido, twin brother of Itai, and partner of Noyal.

The salt of the earth, devoted to values of respect, love, and giving to others. A funny, mischievous kid, responsible and always smiling, who drew everyone in with his charm. He loved traveling, playing music, tennis, sports, and cooking, right down to crafting the "perfect bite". For three years he prepared for combat service through fitness training, and when he enlisted in the Golani Brigade he was happy and proud.

Roei fell on the Sabbath of Simchat Torah, October 7, 2023, at the Pega outpost near the Gaza border, in a battle to defend the homeland. Roei fought with strength and valor, eliminated many terrorists, and saved the lives of his comrades. At a certain point, Roei's commander decided that everyone would enter the protected space so the air force could strike the outpost. To reach the protected space, the soldiers had to cross ground exposed to terrorist fire. Roei, together with his commander, volunteered to stay back last and cover his comrades, and thanks to his bravery, his courage, and his choice to be at the front, his platoon comrades were saved and a far greater disaster was averted.

The phrase "Smiling at Hardship" captures Roei's character and the way he lived and fought. Roei chose to face challenges with a smile and courage, and saw in them an opportunity to prove his strength and determination. This approach led him to be at the front, to volunteer for missions, and ultimately to give his life for his comrades and his country.

Roei left behind a legacy of courage, giving, and love of others and of his homeland. His memory will forever be engraved in all our hearts as a hero of Israel.

We, the women of Stronger Than Wind, carry on his path step by step, out in the field, smiling at hardship.