Netanyahu visits officer injured in border attack
Prime minister visits Captain Ziv Shilon, who was wounded in terror attack near Gaza border; presents him with gift, wishes for speedy recovery
Shilon suffered life threatening injuries in an explosion, caused by a device rigged to one of the Gaza border fence's gates. Doctors were able to save his life, but unfortunately, he lost his hand in the blast.
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Standing at the wounded soldier's bedside, Netanyahu said: "It's obvious Ziv comes from a special family, which raised him to be a brave fighter and a commander with merits, putting his soldiers and the brigade's interests ahead of his own."
Shilon's sister Margalit said: "We were truly touched by the visit, Netanyahu spoke with mom and said she moved him so much he just had to arrive."
Margalit added her mother said that she was "pleased that the prime minister appreciates soldiers that put themselves on the line so that others won't get hurt."
She added: "Netanyahu shook hands with my dad and me; he set next to Ziv and presented him with a gift – a book of his brother Yoni Netanyahu's letters, with a personal dedication. He asked Ziv if he read the book and Ziv replied he did, and that he admires Yoni Netanyahu as a commander, a fighter and as a man."
Netanyahu with injured IDFofficer Shilon (Photo: Kobi Gidon GPO)
Netanyahu's dedication read: "An admired soldier and commander, the whole of Israel salutes you for your courage and your sacrifice protecting the land of Israel."
The PM told the officer: "The people of Israel embrace you and support you. I am thanking you in the name of all, I'm moved by the strength you posses within you."
Shilon thanked the PM: "Thank you for coming. Many citizens visit me and encourage me. Israel and its citizens need total security,including self-sacrifice if need be. This is the reason I joined the army."
Towards the end of his visit, the PM met with Beersheba Mayor Ruvik Danilovich and told him: "Hamas is hiding within the civilian communities, shooting towards our population. We will strongly retaliate in every case."
Last week IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Benny Gantz visited Shilon, telling his parents their son is an outstanding officer.
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