William Shakin to be buried in Israel; IDF to assist family in recognition of service-related death
William Shakin, a lone soldier who fought since October 7, took his own life in the USA. The IDF conducted an investigation and found a potential link between his death and his military service. The family will receive assistance in the process of having him recognized as having "died in connection with service," with the final decision resting with the Ministry of Defense. His funeral will be held on Wednesday in Jerusalem with military representation.
A significant development has occurred in the case of lone soldier William Shakin. Following his family's request for burial in Israel and their claims that the state failed to provide necessary support after his service, the IDF conducted an initial investigation. The findings suggest a potential link between the circumstances of Shakin's death and his military service.
Consequently, the IDF has offered the family dedicated support, including military representation at the funeral to be held on Wednesday in Jerusalem, and guidance in applying to the Ministry of Defense for recognition as having "died in connection with service." The final determination regarding the causal link rests with the Ministry of Defense. If established, the family will be entitled to long-term state support.
Shakin, a 25-year-old lone soldier from New York, served in the 13th Battalion of the Golani Brigade and fought in Gaza for several months. He immigrated to Israel after October 7, leaving his university studies to enlist. Following his combat service, he struggled with severe post-traumatic stress.
Family friend Haim Meizlish stated that the system failed to provide the necessary support in real-time, which eventually led to Shakin's return to the United States. "The army was not prepared to treat him remotely, effectively preventing him from accessing psychologists and support groups," Meizlish explained.
The IDF confirmed the investigation and the ongoing process for recognition. In an official statement, the IDF noted:
"In accordance with the framework established by the committee headed by Major General (res.) Moti Almoz, an initial examination was conducted. It was determined that the circumstances of William's death may be related to his military service. A military delegation, including his unit commander, will attend the funeral to deliver a eulogy. The IDF honors the significant service of William Shakin and shares in the family's grief."
