- November 29, 2024
- 6:27 pm
- Israel
Denis Yakimov, a repatriate from Ukraine, will forever remain a symbol of courage, love for his country and people. Born in Ukraine on July 3, 1990, he moved with his family to Israel in 1997when he was only five years old. His mother, Lena Yakimova, raised four children alone, instilling in them a deep love for Israel and Jewish traditions.
“The place where Jews can feel safe is Israel,” always Lena repeated to her children.
Denis served in the combat unit of the Givati brigade, and then in the reserve of the 17th battalion of the 828th brigade. He died in the Gaza Strip on March 2, 2024, leaving behind a daughter, parents and three siblings.
He was a chess player and always loved to play chess, even in Gaza between battles. After his death in the war, brothers Igor, Dima and Diana organized a tournament in his memory.
Memory Tournament
November 29, 2024 Beersheba Chess Club gathered more than 100 playersto honor the memory of Denis.
The tournament, organized by his family and friends, was held in three categories:
- Professional grandmasters.
- Chess lovers.
- Denis's colleagues and army friends.
The atmosphere of the event was filled with friendship and warmth. Participants noted that Denis, who always loved chess, even in Gaza, found time to play between battles.
“If he had seen this tournament, he would definitely have been delighted,” Denis’s friends recalled.
Why is this important for Israel and Ukraine?
The chess tournament became not only an act of memory, but also a symbol of the unification of two peoples – Israeli and Ukrainian. Denis grew up in a family deeply connected to two cultures. His mother, who came from Ukraine, raised her children in the spirit of respect for Jewish traditions, and Denis himself strengthened bridges between peoples with his life and service.
On the website NAnews — Israel News We have written more than once about important events that highlight the common values of our peoples. The Denis Memorial Tournament is not just a sporting event, but a reminder of how culture and traditions can unite people.
About Denis's family
The Yakimov family is an example of heroism and perseverance. Lena Yakimova raised three sons and a daughter alone, working several jobs to give her children a better future. All three sons served in combat units, and the daughter served significant service in the IDF.
“He loved Israel with all his soul – through his actions and decisions,” his relatives say about Denis.
Tournament results
The tournament ended with an awards ceremony, where Denis’s family congratulated the winners. It was also announced that they would make the tournament an annual event to preserve the memory of the hero.
| Category | Winner | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| Professional grandmasters | Michael Levy | Memory Cup |
| Lovers | Alexander Berman | Participant medal |
| Army friends | Team “Givati” | Certificate and gratitude |
Conclusion
The Denis Yakimov Memorial Tournament is not just a chess competition. This is a story about a man who loved life, family, his country and chess. His life path is an example for all of us.
On the website NAnews – Israel News we will follow the development of this tradition and highlight events that strengthen friendship between the Jewish and Ukrainian peoples.
“It is impossible to forget, it is necessary to remember” are the words that best describe the meaning of this tournament.
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