The IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi, who is nearing the end of his term, got a special honor on Monday during his visit to the US when his counterpart awarded him the Legion of Merit.
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Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley cited Kochavi's "deepening the strategic partnership between Israel and the US" during an honor guard ceremony at Fort Myer, near the Arlington National Cemetary in Virginia.
"Kochavi exemplified the spirit of collaboration and cooperation in furthering the strategic partnership of the United States and the State of Israel," read the text of the award. "Kohavi solidified Israel's status as a capable and effective regional security leader in the Middle East. Kohavi clearly established and shared Israel's strategic defense objectives, in close alignment with US national interests and strategic objectives. Kochavi's superior efforts, outstanding leadership, and personal initiative reflect great credit upon himself, the Israel Defense Forces, and his country," it continued.
Video: IDF Spokesperson Unit / Aviv Kochavi at the Fort Myer base
The award, which is the sixth-highest in the US, can be awarded to those who have "distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services." Some of Kochavi's predecessors have also been awarded the same citation.
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