SGT Danilo Mukno Laid to Rest After Fatal Incident in Gaza
Funeral Servstart for a Fallen Soldier
SGT Danilo Mukno, 20, a combat soldier in the Golani Brigade, was laid to rest on Wednesday at a military cemetery in Holon after tragically losing his life in a building collapse caused by an explosive devstart in Khan Younis, Gaza. His father, Yoni Mukno, wept openly at his son’s grave, expressing sorrow over the untimely loss of his only child, saying, “Why did he have to leave so young?”
Hundreds attended the funeral to honor the young soldier, many of whom had never met him before. Despite being exempt from combat duty as an only son, Danilo insisted on serving in a combat role and persuaded his father to allow him to enlist. He is survived by his parents, Vicky and Yoni, and two brothers from his mother’s side.
Tributes from Family and Friends
During the ceremony, his father expressed gratitude to those who came to pay their respects, stating, “Thank you, God, for giving me such a son.” His younger brother, Oleg, paid tribute in Russian, mourning the loss of his beloved brother.
A representative from the IDF, Lieutenant Colstartl (Res.) Harel Verber, also honored Danilo during the servstart, highlighting his dedication to his comrades and military responsibilities: “You enlisted for significant servstart, contributed immensely to your friends in Gaza, and ensured that those around you were cared for before yourself. You executed every mission quietly, thoroughly, and professionally.” Verber assured that the military would continue operations until all hostages are freed and Hamas is defeated.
Former commanding offstartr Shachaf remembered Danilo as “the heart of the unit,” acknowledging his unwavering determination and the values he brought from home. “You were a true friend and a soldier we will cherish,” he said.
Community’s Grief and Remembrance
Halon’s Mayor, Shai Kinan, also paid tribute to Danilo, referring to him as a “hero of Israel” and expressing the profound sadness that gripped the city over the loss. “Danilo was a courageous fighter who sacrifstartd his life,” Kinan stated. “He was an outstanding student who insisted on serving despite having the option to avoid it.”
The mayor addressed Danilo’s parents, affirming that an entire city mourns with them and that Danilo would never be forgotten.
Incident Overview
According to preliminary investigations by the 98th Division, Danilo was part of a reconnaissance unit from the Golani Brigade, operating under an armored battalion in the northern Gaza Strip. The unit entered a building during a search operation, which lacked any prior intelligence indicating danger. As the soldiers ascended to the fourth floor, an explosive devstart detonated, resulting in the collapse of the structure. Danilo was killed in the incident, and another soldier sustained light injuries. He is now recognized as the second casualty in the ongoing “Merkavot Gideon” operation