[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1307-E1308]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF HERSH GOLDBERG-POLIN

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. ABIGAIL DAVIS SPANBERGER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 19, 2024

  Ms. SPANBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
legacy of love, light, and peace that Hersh Goldberg-Polin built 
throughout his 23 years of life.
  Hersh was a loving son, devoted brother, and beloved friend to many. 
He was born on October 3, 2000 to Rachel Goldberg and Jon Polin, and he 
was the loving older brother to

[[Page E1308]]

sisters Leebie and Orly. Hersh grew up to be a curious and intelligent 
young man. His family lived in Richmond, Virginia--where they and Hersh 
were devoted community members, known for their kindness and love of 
learning--before eventually settling down in Jerusalem, Israel where 
Hersh spent his formative years.
  Hersh was enthusiastic about his love for soccer and especially 
enjoyed cheering on the Hapoel Jerusalem Football Club. He used his 
passion for soccer to help his community as a member of the Malha 
Brigade, the team's official fan club. As a member of the club, he 
participated in community events and advocated for unity through an 
initiative to bring Israeli and Palestinian children together through a 
common love for soccer. His room displayed a sign that reads 
``Jerusalem is for everyone'' in English, Hebrew, and Arabic.
  At the age of 18, he fulfilled his duty and served as part of the 
Israel Defense Forces. While he fulfilled different duties during his 
time of service, he enjoyed being a medic most--helping and healing 
others. He concluded his service honorably in April 2023.
  His love for people and for learning grew as he traveled the world. 
After a summer trip across Europe, Hersh returned to Israel and 
attended the Nova desert rave on October 7, 2023, where attendees were 
attacked by terrorists. Hersh lost his arm during this attack while 
trying to protect and help others--always a caring and loving friend to 
all. Hersh was captured, held hostage for nearly a year, and was 
tragically murdered by Hamas terrorists. Yet throughout the 320 days he 
was held hostage, it was the image of his joyful eyes and his broad 
smile that brought continued attention and a global focus to the plight 
of the hostages and the need for the world to prioritize their return.
  As we--here in the halls of Congress and across our country--remember 
the tragedy of the day that stole Hersh from his family and friends and 
ultimately took him from this world, we also celebrate the joy and 
kindness he brought to everyone he touched throughout his 23 years. We 
honor the young man who became known to the world for his extraordinary 
compassion, joyful spirit, and ultimately his bravery. We mourn with 
his family--his beloved parents and sisters--and friends, and we also 
join them in honoring his extraordinary life. I know each of his loved 
ones will carry on his legacy by continuing his work--by promoting 
peace, charity, and love. May his memory be a blessing.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the remarkable life and 
legacy built by Hersh Goldberg-Polin. To his family, friends, and loved 
ones--may the memories of love and light that were built with Hersh 
bring them peace and comfort as they honor his life in years to come.

                          ____________________