IDF Chief of Staff Gantz: I salute you

“I came to salute you today, as the chief of staff of the IDF, as a warrior, commander of paratroopers who went after you even after the ranks no longer adorned your shoulders,” Gantz says at Sharon’s funeral.

He praises Sharon’s leadership qualities. “The army will continue to live in your shadow and in your image for many years.”

Sharon was a study in contrasts, Gantz seems to be saying: “A grizzled warrior with a subscription to the philharmonic, the daring commander, the considered planner. You knew how to choose the best of the warriors, the bravest among those charging ahead, the future generation. There isn’t a battle doctrine in which we can’t see your fingerprints as a commander.”

Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz eulogizes former premier Ariel Sharon at his funeral on Monday, January 13, 2014. (photo credit: screen shot/Channel 2)

Sharon “created generations of soldiers and commanders who know whence they come and what they are fighting for. We continue to march to the sound of your footsteps,” Gantz says.

He concludes in grand, touching manner. “Army identity number 38166, Maj. Gen. Ariel Sharon, warrior, commander and general, in the name of generations of warriors past, present and future, I salute you. May your memory be for a blessing.”

Gantz salutes and walks away from the microphone.