United States Air Force awards Israeli Air Force Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin with the US Legion of Merit; Norkin: The cooperation between the Israeli Air Force and the United States Air Force is currently at an unprecedented situation, in terms of depth and operational relevance; Goldfein: The US Air Force brings with it a multitude of operational capabilities, while the Israeli Air Force brings speed, flexibility and operational experience. Combining forces leads to better security of both countries.
Israeli Air Force Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin has been awarded the US Legion of Merit award by the United States Air Force. He has been recognized as an outstanding leader who has helped pave the way for the strongest relationship ever between the two countries, militarily speaking. In his acknowledgement of the ever-growing relationship between Israel and the United States, Norkin said, “The cooperation between the Israeli Air Force and the United States Air Force is currently at an unprecedented situation, in terms of depth and operational relevance.” The award was presented the same day that Hezbollah struck an IDF armored vehicle near the Israel-Lebanon border, and comes at a time when Iran has now openly said they are no longer adhering to the terms of the nuclear deal.
UASF Chief of Staff Gen. Goldfein was the individual presenting the award to Norkin for his “exceptionally meritorious service”. In his presentation he stated, “The US Air Force brings with it a multitude of operational capabilities, while the Israeli Air Force brings speed, flexibility and operational experience. Combining forces leads to better security of both countries.” There are at least four other IDF Chiefs of staff who have received this prestigious award.
The reading of the award highlighted the impact of General Norkin in stating that his “exemplary leadership and vision significantly enhanced the cooperation and partnership between the United States and Israel.” In addition, it recognized his role in the oversight of the F-35; specifically, its operational capabilities, calling it a “significant milestone that guaranteed Israel’s qualitative military edge in the Middle East region while greatly contributing to the security of the State of Israel.”
Without question, the alliance between Israel and the United States has never been stronger. It is quite amazing to think that just 3 years ago, this alliance was walking on thin ice after the previous US administration took just about every opportunity they could to isolate Israel and fund Israel’s enemies.
