Captain Omer Maxim Neutra z”l, was kidnapped and taken hostage by Hamas terrorists on October 7, 2023, along with more than 250 others.

Omer was born and raised on Long Island, New York, and grew up in Plainview. He was educated on values of Zionism, love of humanity, and commitment to community. From a young age, he stood out for his natural leadership, his warmth, and his rare ability to bring people from different backgrounds together. He was deeply loved by family, friends, and his community, known for making people feel seen, valued, and included.

Omer was the grandson of Holocaust survivors and was raised with a deep sense of Jewish responsibility, history, and moral clarity. He lived as a bridge between the United States and Israel, grounded in the belief that Jewish life, dignity, and self-defense matter.

Driven by a deep sense of purpose and a profound bond with Israel and the Jewish people, Omer chose to immigrate to Israel and enlist in the Israel Defense Forces as a lone soldier. He joined the Armored Corps, advanced through the ranks, and became a beloved and respected officer. Omer led with integrity, responsibility, and personal example — inspiring trust not through authority, but through courage, humility, and care for others.

On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists breached the Gaza border and launched a brutal assault on peaceful communities, the Nova music festival, and military outposts. Stationed near the border, Omer went into battle with his tank crew to defend Israel and its citizens. He was killed in combat and taken hostage to Gaza.

After **758 long days**, Omer was returned home to Israel and laid to rest in the land he loved and defended.

Omer lived life with optimism and joy. His friends often turned to him in moments of doubt, knowing he would help them see the good and find strength under pressure. He had a rare gift for encouraging others, lifting spirits, and reminding people what truly matters.

A devoted teammate and an avid basketball player, Omer loved sports not only for competition, but for the bonds they create. He believed deeply in teamwork, mutual respect, and shared purpose. He embraced life fully — with laughter, friendship, and a big open heart.

Carrying Omer’s Legacy Forward

While the mission to bring Omer home has ended, the responsibility that grew around his name has not.

Bring Omer Home is now dedicated to carrying Omer’s values forward — turning the way he lived and led into opportunities to educate, connect and inspire others.

Our work focuses on sharing Omer’s story and the lessons of October 7 through film screenings, community conversations and educational programs; developing leadership initiatives for young people; strengthening the connection between Jewish communities in the United States and Israel; and supporting meaningful projects inspired by the values Omer lived every day.

At the heart of this work is a simple idea that guided Omer throughout his life:

“The team needs you.”

For Omer, leadership was never about being the loudest person in the room. It was about showing up, taking responsibility, bringing people together and making those around you stronger.

We want the next generation to carry those values with them.

Your contribution helps us bring Omer’s story to more communities, develop educational and leadership programs, create opportunities for young people in the United States and Israel to learn from one another, and ensure that Omer’s story inspires not only remembrance, but action.

Omer came home. Now we carry forward what he stood for.

Thank you for being part of his team.

This fundraiser benefits Bring Omer Home, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Receipt will follow upon request.

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