Sgt. Moshe Yitzhak HaCohen Katz, 22, of the Paratroopers Brigade’s 890th Battalion and a member of the New Haven, Connecticut Chabad community, died a hero today in Lebanon in combat with Hezbollah, his family confirmed.

His father, Mendy Katz, shared the devastating news in a statement, writing, “With unspeakable tragedy, I regret to inform you that my 22 year old son Moshe Yitzchak, AH, a sergeant in the IDF, fell in battle in Lebanon.”

Moshe was the son of Mendy and Devorah Katz, longtime members of the Chabad community in New Haven.

Describing his son, Mendy Katz said Moshe was “my oldest son with a zest for life and jokes,” adding, “My heart is shattered and the wound is real. May he be a malitz yosher for only good things.”

A family friend, Henshy, reflected on the loss, saying, “He leaves a void that aches through every corner of our community. The pain we share is raw and heavy, but so is our love for Mendy, his family, and all who mourn. May we surround them with warmth, courage, and unwavering support in these darkest hours. May his memory be a blessing, now and forever.”

The family is currently flying to Israel to be present for the funeral.

May his memory be a blessing.