Tragedy: Lone soldier immigrant takes his own life due to PTSD

William Shakin, a 25-year-old lone soldier from New York who fought in Gaza with the Golani Brigade, has taken his own life. His family claims he was denied psychological help and demands he be buried on Mount Herzl. The Defense Ministry says no request for recognition as a casualty was found and reminds that documents can be submitted remotely.

William (Will) Shakin, a 25-year-old lone soldier from Long Neck, New York, took his own life while in a severe mental crisis. He fought for several months in the Gaza Strip as part of the 13th Battalion of the Golani Brigade and witnessed the deaths of comrades. After returning to the US, he experienced serious mental health issues. Family and friends claim he did not receive adequate support: PTSD was not diagnosed, help was not provided, and to obtain status he needed to be in Israel. His parents demand he be buried at the military cemetery on Mount Herzl. The Defense Ministry states that no request for recognition as a casualty was found and reminds that documents can be submitted remotely and medical examinations can be conducted via Zoom. Friend Chaim Meizlish says there are dozens of such soldiers who do not receive benefits.