Ya-acov Katz

Apr 27, 2002 - Ya'acov Katz, 51, of Adora, was one of four people killed when terrorists dressed in IDF uniforms and combat gear cut through the defensive perimeter fence and entered the community of Adora. The terrorists entered several homes, firing on people in their bedrooms. The PFLP claimed responsibility for the attack.

The attack took place at about 9 AM on Saturday morning in the hilltop community of Adora, northwest of Hebron. At least two terrorists, wearing IDF uniforms and flak jackets, armed with Kalashnikov and M-16 assault rifles, infiltrated the community. They entered several homes, killing Katrina Greenberg, asleep in her bedroom, and 5-year-old Danielle Shefi, who was playing in her parents' bedroom, and injuring seven others. Arik Becker and Ya'acov Katz were killed as they and others from the community's response team exchanged fire with the terrorists.

Ya'acov Katz immigrated to Israel 13 years ago from Tadjikstan, where he had founded a large Zionist club and taught Hebrew. With a doctorate in computers, Katz worked in his field in Rishon Lezion and had earlier run a technological hothouse hi-tech project in Kiryat Arba.

Ya'acov served in the IDF's Home Front Command search and rescue team, and took part in the Israeli rescue missions following the terrorist bombing at the American Embassy in Nairobi, the earthquake in Turkey, and the collapse of the Versailles banquet hall in Jerusalem. Lt.-Col. Amir Golan said in his eulogy: "You were always ready for any mission. The need to serve the country was a part of you. You were a strong man, who practiced martial arts, but most of all you were mentally strong."

Ya'acov lived with his son Yehuda (7.5) in Adora. Two years ago, he was divorced from his wife Irina, who currently resides in the US. Ya'acov was at the synagogue when the shooting began. A member of the Adora security teamm, he ran to his home, located near the Shefi and Greenberg homes, and was gunned down by the terrorists.

Ya'acov Katz was buried in Jerusalem. He is survived by two older daughters, Larissa and Anya, and his son Yehuda.