Border policeman St.-Sgt. David Smirnoff

Apr 12, 2002 - Border policeman St.-Sgt. David Smirnoff, 22, of Ashdod was killed when a Palestinian gunman opened fire at the Erez crossing in the Gaza Strip, through which omoer than 3,000 Palestinian workers cross into Israel daily. The terrorist killed St.-Sgt. Smirnoff and injured another four Israelis. He also killed a Palestinian worker and injured three others. The Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for the attack.

Border policeman St.-Sgt. David Smirnoff immigrated to Israel at age 10 from the Ukraine. At age 16, he was the national champion in karate in the age 16-18 class. He had a black belt and had begun to teach karate. "He was a good sportsman and very talented," said his trainer of seven years.

David served as a combat medic. He was killed a few days before his discharge.

Border policeman St.-Sgt. David Smirnoff was buried in the military section of the cemetery in Ashdod. He is survived by his father Vladimir, mother Anna and sister Irena.