Part of David's army service was served opposite the Mitla Pass. On Thursday, 11th of Iyar 5729, at four o'clock, artillery shelling on his encampment began. David and his general were critically wounded. The wounded were quickly evacuated, and David passed away during evacuation.

David said, "We don't have serious religious problems, except that on Shabbat everybody works aside from the religious. Although this is not ideal, in religion there is no sentiments."

He also wrote, "We are in dire need of letters with Divrei Torah, because we have a lot of time here. I ask that you send me a copy of Masechet Megillah as soon as possible."