Omer Neutra Family Pickleball Fundraiser: The family of Omer Neutra, a 21-year-old from Plainview who was killed in the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, held a pickleball fundraiser on Wednesday, July 2, at The Pickle Complex in Syosset. The event aimed to raise support for bringing Omer Neutra’s body home and for the release of all remaining hostages.
Remembering Omer Neutra
Omer Neutra had delayed his start at SUNY Binghamton University to serve in the Israel Defense Forces. He became a platoon commander in the Armored Corps. For weeks after the October 7 attacks, he was believed to be held hostage until the Israel Defense Forces confirmed his death on December 1. He was later honored with a posthumous promotion to the rank of captain.
The fundraiser brought together family, local leaders, and community members. Among them was Nassau County Legislature Deputy Minority Leader Arnold W. Drucker, who showed his support by wearing a sticker with Omer Neutra’s face on his shirt.
Strong Support from the Community
“The overwhelming response to this fundraising event is a testament to the community’s love for Omer Neutra and our unwavering demand for the release of Omer’s body and freedom for every hostage that remains in captivity at the hands of Hamas terrorists,”.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated and remain in awe of Captain Neutra’s family’s remarkable strength, dignity and resolve after such a horrific loss.”(Arnold W. Drucker)
Neutra’s parents, Ronen Neutra and Orna Neutra, led the event. Pro pickleball player Dekel Bar also joined them on the court, along with many local supporters calling for action and justice.
Honoring a Hero’s Legacy
On February 12, Ronen Neutra and Orna Neutra spoke in Washington, D.C., about the painful days leading up to the confirmation of their son’s death. Orna Neutra described it as an “excruciating 422 days of endless worry for his safety.”
To honor his memory, the Nassau County Legislature voted on February 24 to rename part of Manetto Hill Road to “Captain Omer Neutra Way.”
“So each and every day, when people drive on this road, they will forever be reminded of the life of our hero, Omer Neutra,” (Arnold W. Drucker).
A Continuing Mission
The pickleball fundraiser not only remembered Omer Neutra’s bravery but also served as a way to keep pushing for justice. His family and community remain committed to bringing his body home and freeing others still held hostage. The event showed that their fight for peace, memory, and justice is far from over.
News in Brief: Omer Neutra Family Pickleball Fundraiser
A pickleball fundraiser was held in Syosset on July 2 to honor Omer Neutra, a Plainview native killed in the October 7 Hamas attacks. Family, local leaders, and supporters gathered to call for the return of his body and freedom for all hostages still in captivity.
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