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The Dekel House honors the memory of Captain Dekel Swissa, who was killed while defending his post during the October 7 Hamas attacks.
By Shula Rosen
Just over 12 miles from the Gaza border, a quiet retreat offers Israeli combat soldiers more than just a place to rest; it offers comfort, care, and connection to a lasting legacy.
Dekel House, a newly opened villa in Moshav Patish, honors the memory of Captain Dekel Swissa, who was killed while defending his post during the October 7 Hamas attacks.
Swissa, a commander in the Golani Brigade’s 13th Battalion, was the only officer at the Paga outpost that morning. Alongside 25 soldiers, he fought off an assault by roughly 150 Hamas terrorists.
He was killed in the fighting, but his leadership and bravery helped prevent a much larger tragedy. In the months since, his family and friends sought a way to carry his spirit forward.
“We wanted to continue Dekel’s tradition of giving,” said his father, retired Colonel M., who has served nearly 500 days of reserve duty since his son’s death.
“Dekel welcomed everyone. He made space for others. This house is our way of keeping that spirit alive.”
Dekel House was built with support from Staff Sergeant (res.) Moshiko Moskowitz, a veteran of the Gaza Division and head of the Nechama and Hatzala for Israel nonprofit.
“Dekel gave his life for others,” Moskowitz said. “This home, born out of grief, has become a place of warmth. Soldiers come here not only to rest, but to feel cared for.”
The villa is fully equipped: bedrooms with clean linens, a swimming pool, jacuzzi, arcade machines, a barbecue grill, and fridges stocked with cold drinks.
Over 200 soldiers have already passed through its doors to relax, eat, and find peace, even briefly.
At the opening ceremony, a palm tree (dekel in Hebrew) was planted in the garden. “The palm gives everything it has, and stands tall with humility,” said M. “That’s Dekel. This house reflects him—strong, generous, and always welcoming.”
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