The most harrowing tragedy has struck at the most well known and visible of Israeli families in the world. When the spaceship Columbia exploded and all crew members were killed the world was in shock. The Israeli public was in even greater shock as Ilan Ramon the first Israeli astronaut was on that ill fated flight. His Jewish pride and sensitivity to Jewish customs were a very touching part of his stay in space. He literally mesmerized the Israeli public with his incredible personality. His death left many Jews completely heartbroken including the writer of these lines.
Very few people knew that his son Asaf had embarked on a military career very similar to his father. He had become a fighter pilot like his father and apparently a very good one at that. The IDF demands that anyone who has lost a sibling or father needs special permission to serve in a combat unit. Tragedy striking twice is almost too difficult to bear. Asaf apparently received that permission from his mother; he probably pressured her to give it. When he was killed in a training accident it brought back old memories to very many.
Families like the Ramons will continue to bear the burden of defending Israel. Those who shirk that responsibility should be feeling very small around now.
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