Official IDF Statement on the Columbia

Israel Defense Forces ^ | 2/2/2003 | IDF Spokesperson's Unit

[yonif]

February 2nd, 2003

Official IDF Statement

IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Moshe Ya'alon, Air Force Commander Major General Dan Halutz, commanders and soldiers of the IDF, all share the grief over the tragedy that befell the space shuttle Columbia upon its return to earth.

In this difficult time, out hearts are with the families of Ilan Ramon, and the other six astronauts of the Columbia Space Shuttle.

In embarking on this space flight, Ramon undertook an important mission on both a national and international level, whose purpose was to expand human knowledge.

Colonel Ilan Ramon is an Israeli air force pilot, and the first Israeli astronaut. Ramon was part of a historical expedition, and represented Israel in the scientific research conducted on the "Columbia" space shuttle. The inclusion of an Israeli astronaut to this mission was made possible due to the special relations between Israel and the U.S.

The IDF expresses its condolences to Ilan's family members in this difficult time.

[xzins]

Yes, my friend, Ramon & yonif.

We will die side by side.

Israel is among our three best friends in this world. It is fitting that these brave souls from our 2 nations walked together into eternity.

[Consort]

[xzins]

let me add

NSDQ

[Poohbah]

May the great Name of God be exalted and sanctified, throughout the world, which he has created according to his will. May his Kingship be established in your lifetime and in your days, and in the lifetime of the entire household of Israel, swiftly and in the near future; and say, Amen.
May his great name be blessed, forever and ever.
Blessed, praised, glorified, exalted, extolled, honored elevated and lauded be the Name of the holy one, Blessed is he- above and beyond any blessings and hymns, Praises and consolations which are uttered in the world; and say Amen. May there be abundant peace from Heaven, and life, upon us and upon all Israel; and say, Amen.

He who makes peace in his high holy places, may he bring peace upon us, and upon all Israel; and say Amen.

[valkyrieanne]

The words of the Kaddish prayer are most appropriate right now.