Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi visited Reserve Brigade 551 to assess readiness on the northern front. Halevi was accompanied by Northern Command Chief General Uri Gordin, Ground Forces Commander Major General Tamir Yadai, National Ground Training Center Commander Brigadier Kobi Heller, Brigade 551 Commander Colonel Ido Kas, and others.
In a speech delivered to the soldiers, Halevi stated, "Fighting in Gaza or Lebanon requires determination... there are no easy achievements. We must show significantly more determination than the other side. We look ahead... the path to bringing the residents of the north back involves creativity, proper planning, and strong determination."
He added, "The brigade is accomplishing a lot and has a very long experience, with many achievements that have been attained at known costs."
Halevi concluded, "I tell you that we are determined to continue and are working hard, prepared to address the challenges on the northern front while continuing to operate on the southern front and combat terrorism in Judea and Samaria (West Bank)."
