IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz
Photo courtesy of the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit
Gantz assists in wounded soldier's medevac
Chief of Staff hears of Paratroopers' training accident while leaving base, orders his helicopter to turn around, evacuate injured soldier
A solider that was injured Sunday during a routine Paratroopers Brigade drill in the Jordan valley was airlifted to the hospital by the chief of staff's helicopter.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen Benny Gantz was observing the exercise, which included urban warfare simulations and live fire drills.
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During one of the simulations, one of the solider sustained mild injuries, which are believed to have been caused by shrapnel ricochets.
Gantz assisting in the medevac (Photo: IDF)
Gantz, who left the base about 15 minutes prior to the incident, heard that there was a soldier in need of assistance on the ground and immediately ordered his helicopter to turn around and provide medical evacuation.
The injured soldier was treated on site by the brigade's paramedics and then airlifted by Gantz' helicopter to Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem.
The IDF chief actively assisted in the evacuation, ensuring the soldier's well being. He also had the soldier notify his family of the incident and update him on his condition while en route to the hospital, to prevent them from worrying.
Following the injury Gantz suspended the exercise and ordered the brigade to investigate the incident.
The drill is set to be renewed overnight.
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