Hatuel Memorial

May 2, 2004 - Tali Hatuel, 34, and her daughters - Hila, 11, Hadar, 9, Roni, 7, and Merav, 2 - of Katif in the Gaza Strip were killed when two Palestinian terrorists fired on an Israeli car at the entrance to the Gaza Strip settlement bloc of Gush Katif.

Outside the Jewish settlement of Netzer Hazani, the community has built a memorial to Tali and the girls. It is a place of rest for soldiers, a way of thanking them for their hard work in protecting the communities, and a way of offering them some peace in a place that has known too little peace in the last few years.

A week after the murder of Tali and her beautiful girls, friends wanted to remember and honor the devastated family with a memorial service. The service was to be held in the same location where they were murdered and it was cleared with the army. Palestinians opened fire on the crowd of mourners and to the army's great shame, it took them almost 30 minutes before they were able to bring the situation under control and evacuate the mourners. (Click here to read more about the Shameful Picture this presented to the world.)

Out of great pain and sadness, the community of Gush Katif decided to create a place of peace and kindness and so they dedicated an oasis of quiet. A cool, air-conditioned place stocked with food and drink. It is an act of love from the people of Gush Katif to the army of Israel, all of whom are their sons, brothers, husbands and friends. Given that this same army, under orders from the Israeli government, is about to evacuate these same people, it is an extraordinary act of gratitude and shows their understanding that though the army may be called to implement Sharon's expulsion plan, it is the Sharon government alone that bears the responsibility.

A Memorial to Tali and the Hatuel Family from the people of Gush Katif

Below the pictures of each child, is a brief description. A few short lines that try to sum up a life, to help you realize that each was special, each unique. May God avenge their murders.

Hila

Hila, the oldest daughter of the family. She was 10 1/2 years old. She was sensitive, quiet and had a good heart. She always spoke gently and with much wisdom, had good intentions and displayed a warm and loving smile.

Hadar

Hadar, the second daughter, was 9 years old. She was an organized and responsible child. Her character was friendly and she was quick to compromise. She was creative. Her face always displayed a sense of curiousity and an endless smile.

Roni

Roni, the third daughter, was 6 1/2 years old. She was loved by everyone because of her sensitivity to those around her and always displayed a clever wit. Roni liked all thinks related to holiness and it showed in her innocent and pure prayers.

Merav

Merav was 2 1/2 and despite her young age, she was a leader from birth. She was filled with innocence and grace, energy and happiness.

And though there are no pictures, a fifth child was murdered that day. Tali was 8 months pregnant with what was to have been their first son. He too died that day.