Sgt.-Maj. Madin Grifat

Nov 9, 2002 - Sgt.-Maj. Madin Grifat, 23, of Beit Zarzir was killed when a mine exploded during a routine patrol northeast of Netzarim in the Gaza Strip.

Grifat, a tracker, was leading the unit when the mine was detonated, and died of his wounds shortly afterward. A Givati Brigade company commander who was following just meters behind was wounded. Madin had been at home on leave on Friday, due to return to the his unit on Monday. He returned early, however, when asked to take another soldier's place. The Islamic Jihad's Jerusalem Brigade claimed responsibility for the attack.

Madin Grifat was the 28th soldier from the Bedouin village of Beit Zarzir in the Galilee to die in combat. His close friend and relative, Lt. Malik Grifat, was killed on Sept 5, 2002 when a Palestinian terrorist opened fire towards an IDF patrol near Nisanit in the northern Gaza Strip.

Madin's father Salah Grifat related, "My son served in Gaza since the beginning of his army service, and after he completed his mandatory stint in the army, he signed up for career service. He was a quiet, good person - the best of my five sons." Madin had begun building his home in the village and planned to marry. His cousin Mansur added that Madin "loved the army and was proud to serve in the army."