IAF held its annual ceremony honoring the reserve formation. IAF Chief: "in the face of future challenges the formation must be stronger and more prepared than ever"
Date: 30/08/2012, 7:02 PM
Author: Yael Livnat
The Israeli Air Force held a ceremony honoring its volunteer reservists last night (Wednesday, August 29). IAF Commander, Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel, Chief Reserve Officer, Brig. Gen. Shuki Ben Anat and commanders of the various units and air bases attended the ceremony.
At the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Eshel awarded certificates of excellence to 40 deserving IDF reservists. President Shimon Peres selected two additional outstanding reserve units, and will honor them at a separate ceremony to be held at the President's house next week.
"Serving as a reservist is a way of life and makes up a significant part of my life," said Cpt. (res.) Achinoam Rabat, who represented the reservists at the ceremony. "Leaving my desk and my studies, putting on my uniform, and returning to the military life- has become second nature to me," she explained. "I am glad to report for duty, even at short notice and even though it disrupts my routine, everyday life. It's an experience I am always thrilled to come back to: Meeting the soldiers, going out on operational activity, and being responsible for the life and spirit of each and every soldier."
IAF Commander, Maj. Gen. Eshel thanked the tens of thousands of IAF reservists. "The IAF is the triumphant, defensive branch of the IDF and of the State of Israel," he said. "Our achievements so far were made possible by the reserve formation, and the challenges ahead will require the formation to be stronger and more prepared than ever. We thank you for your contribution, dedication and sacrifice."
"The IAF is involved in all security issues and we bear a lot of responsibility on our shoulders. We operate with excellence and determination," Maj. Gen. Eshel added. "It is a great honor to command over such excellent people, and to serve in a military that honors its reservists even at unusual times."