Team Elchanan: The Private Rescue Squad That Saved Dozens in Be'eri
On October 7, 2023, Menahem Kalmanzon and his family formed Team Elchanan, rescuing dozens trapped in Kibbutz Be'eri while brother Elchanan fell in heroic combat.
On October 7, 2023, Menahem Kalmanzon, alongside his late brother Elchanan and their nephew Itiel, spontaneously formed "Team Elchanan," a private rescue squad that drove from Otniel directly into the inferno at Kibbutz Be'eri. Without waiting for official orders, while residents were trapped in their homes under brutal attack, they became life-savers for dozens of families.
In an interview with Hidabroot, Menahem recounts the harrowing moments of combat, the unfathomable courage displayed by his brother Elchanan—who fell in battle defending the kibbutz—the chilling encounters with citizens trapped in safe rooms, and profound insights into heroism and unity.
"Put Everything Aside - We Are Going"
With the outbreak of the war and grim reports from the south, the Kalmanzon family did not hesitate for a moment. Elchanan, Menahem, and Itiel packed combat gear and headed south with rare bravery, realizing that no one else was coming to rescue the residents in those critical opening moments.
During hours of stubborn combat, house by house, under heavy terrorist fire and on a mission to save lives, Elchanan Kalmanzon fell in a heroic battle inside Kibbutz Be'eri. Menahem describes with yearning and pride his brother's character, who led from the front and never hesitated when human lives were in danger.
For his supreme valor and actions alongside team members, "Team Elchanan" earned immense public appreciation and medals of heroism, symbolizing the ultimate victorious Israeli spirit.
