At the cornerstone-laying ceremony for a new MDA station in the community of Avshalom, two new bulletproof ambulances were inaugurated, donated by the organization "Samaritan's Purse"
One ambulance is dedicated to the memory of Roi Idan, z"l, and his wife, Smadar Mor Idan, z"l, who were murdered on October 7 during the surprise Hamas attack in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where they lived. That same Saturday, their three-year-old youngest daughter, Abigail, was kidnapped to Gaza and later released in a deal.
The second ambulance is dedicated to the memory of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, z"l, a 23-year-old who was injured and abducted by Hamas terrorists from the 'Nova' festival where he was present during the terrorist attack on October 7. Last month, it was revealed that he was murdered while in captivity.
"Samaritan's Purse," based in North Carolina, is a Christian evangelical humanitarian organization that provides relief to people in crisis situations. The organization operates in over 100 countries to assist victims of war, disease, disasters, poverty, hunger, and persecution. "Samaritan's Purse" chose to strengthen MDA early in the war by donating 14 ambulances dedicated to the memory of MDA's fallen during the Iron Sword War, who were killed while on lifesaving missions or fell in battle defending the state. The two new ambulances will bolster medical security in both routine and emergency situations.
The ceremony was attended by Franklin Graham, President and CEO of "Samaritan's Purse," and MDA Director General Eli Bin. The event was honored by the presence of Health Minister Uriel Busso, Eshkol Regional Council Head Gadi Yarkoni, MDA management, and the bereaved families.
During the ceremony, Senior MDA EMT Akiva Shabbat, moved the attendees as he recounted his actions on October 7, when he bravely went out to treat the wounded after a missile struck his home in the Gaza border area. Towards the end of the ceremony, Mr. Graham surprised MDA Director General Eli Bin by announcing that he would donate 20 additional bulletproof ambulances to Magen David Adom.
Rev. Franklin Graham, President and CEO of "Samaritan's Purse": "It is an honor to be here today. Our hearts are still heavy due to the hostages and the deaths of so many people in this land. Nearly a year has passed since the war began, and the situation is still ongoing; there is still work to do. There is much evil in the world, and on October 7, you saw the face of the devil, but God loves you. There is a reason why God chose the Jews to be the chosen people. I pray that we never have to use these ambulances. MDA personnel, we salute your bravery as you risk your lives to save others. Let us place our trust in God, and He will protect and fight for us. Thank you for allowing us to take a small part in saving lives, and we will do more."
Gadi Yarkoni, Head of Eshkol Regional Council: "The new MDA station we are building here, thanks to Mr. Graham's important donation, is another milestone in our recovery process and our return home. The new bulletproof ambulances enhance emergency medical response, and the additional resources are a key component in the residents' sense of security."
Health Minister Uriel Busso: "Mr. Graham, welcome to the State of Israel, our true friend. Since October 7, Israel's healthcare system has faced the greatest challenges since the establishment of the state. Our largest partners during this difficult time are Magen David Adom, who provide assistance to everyone in need. Mr. Graham, your donation to the State of Israel and Magen David helps the state and strengthens us. Today, the 16th of Elul, is my birthday, and I could not have asked for a better gift than this station and these ambulances that will save lives in Israel. I hope that soon we will come here and cut the ribbon, and this place will be the true blooming of the Negev."
MDA Director General Eli Bin: "Mr. Graham, when I look at October 7, I see who stood by Israel and who will stand by Israel when the threat arises; I see your love for the State of Israel and know it comes from you and people like you. Your concern is not just for MDA; you care for citizens in both the north and south, which is truly inspiring and appreciated. The cornerstone-laying for the MDA station and the inauguration of the bulletproof ambulances at this time is a significant and emotional event.
It represents the vision for the partners: Samaritan's Purse, MDA, and the Eshkol Regional Council. Today, we dedicate bulletproof ambulances to the memory of Smadar, Roi, and Hersh, may their memories be a blessing. They showed courage against the dangers there. That morning, Smadar and Roi fought to save their children's lives; I have no doubt that the courage of Michael, Abigail, and Amalia is a result of their parents' upbringing. At the same time, Hersh, z"l, fought to save the lives of those around him, and I am sure he fought even in the Hamas tunnels. I sincerely hope that their families will find comfort in these ambulances that will save lives and continue their legacy."
