''We are still learning about the circumstances surrounding the crash''. Photo Archive: IDF Spokesperson

Share|

More Articles IAF Targets Hamas Terror Infrastructure in Gaza Strip Grad Rocket Fired From Gaza Hits Ashkelon Helicopter Crash Victims Laid to Rest President Peres Thanks Romanian President for Cooperation IDF Delegation Returning from Romania; Identified Bodies to be Brought Home Soon “Our Mission Is To Bring Our Sons Home For Burial” All Articles

"Today, we are bidding farewell to six of our best soldiers. They are the pride of the IAF and of the people of Israel, but to my sorrow, their loss is as great as the pride they inspired", said IDF Manpower Directorate Commander, Maj. Gen. Avi Zamir, upon the return to Israel of the bodies of the Yasur helicopter crash victims.

Maj. Gen. Zamir noted that as the funerals will be held today, the investigation into the crash continues. "We are still learning about the circumstances surrounding the crash. I am sure that this process will be conducted to its final conclusion. Efforts are underway to bring the black box, but we will be able to investigate even without it", he said.

The Manpower Directorate Commander stressed that, according to IDF procedure, the army will continue to accompany the bereaved families "in accordance with the sensitivity of this kind of event". According to him, "when we heard of the disaster, we knew there was no chance to find survivors. At that stage, I suggested that the relevant senior officials bring back the bodies for burial in Israel. It was clear to everybody that this was highly important. The IAF has experienced hardships and losses for the establishment of the State of Israel and will continue to operate for its protection".

"If needed, we will go back to the crash site to collect evidence"

On Thursday night (July 29), IDF Chief Rabbi Brig. Gen. Rafi Peretz stressed that "the rabbinate teams will stay in Romania in order to find additional evidence and allow a credible identification for the soldiers". According to him, "if needed, we will go back to the crash site to collect further evidence".

Brig. Gen. Rabbi Peretz explained that for him "it is a very difficult mission. As a pilot of a squadron who knows the people well, this event is not simple for me. I am now part of a squadron, I know the people who are serving here; they are the best possible team, they are people who executed excellent work. There are strong people and soldiers here who will continue to operate for the State of Israel, and will continue to be devoted to the values of the IDF and to their job".