Do you know who Yanatan "Yoni" Netanyahu is?

2014-11-01T02:41:01-04:00

After hearing that there was some name calling these last few weeks within the U.S. administration. I decided to do some reading on Benjamin Netanyahu and also Sayeret Matkal (Special forces unit of the Isreal Defence Forces) and discovered something I did not know.

Yanatan "Yoni" Netanyahu March 13, 1946 – July 4, 1976), was the commander of the elite Israeli army commando unit Sayeret Matkal. He was the only Israeli soldier killed in action during Operation Entebbe in Uganda.

He was awarded the Medal of Distinguished Service for his conduct in the Yom Kippur War. And is the older brother of Benjamin Netanyahu, the current Prime Minister of Israel.

Benjamin was also a team leader of the Sayeret Matkai was wounded in combat twice and achieved the rank of captain before being discharged.

I have always found it interesting to learn these little tidbits of information about people you admire and thought I would share.

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Nov 1 at 2014 3:25 AM

2014-11-01T03:25:48-04:00

Interesting information MSgt Private RallyPoint Member. Military history is fascinating all over the world. I read an article last evening about Baron von Richtoven, better known as the Red Baron. He is actually buried is a small family plot in Wiesbaden, Germany. Every country has heroes. Thanks for sharing.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Nov 1 at 2014 3:27 AM

2014-11-01T03:27:55-04:00

So the Israeli PM is not only a veteran, but has been wounded in action while serving in an elite unit?

And all we can get are career politicians and community organizers. Sheesh.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Nov 1 at 2014 7:35 AM

2014-11-01T07:35:16-04:00

I'm also a history and trivia buff so thanks MSgt Private RallyPoint Member for sharing this very interesting fact. I agree with you and 1LT Nick Kidwell about veteran leaders.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Nov 1 at 2014 11:43 AM

2014-11-01T11:43:02-04:00

I remember watching a movie on the Raid on Entebbe. I was not putting the pieces together that he was Benjamin Netanyahu's father. It kind of make sense why Netanyahu is such an effective leader and the World keeps pushing us toward betraying our strongest ally in the region.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Nov 1 at 2014 12:47 PM

2014-11-01T12:47:12-04:00

Dunno, just thinking back to January 2001 when she and her husband left the White House...

***Post-editing note: why did my comment on Hillary Clinton turn up in here? Weeeeeeird***