Sorin Hershko, the soldier who was most severely wounded in Operation Entebbe, received an award of recognition from the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation during an event commemorating 50 years since the operation.
The award was presented to him by Chemi Peres, chairman of the center and son of the then defense minister and key political actor during the operation, Shimon Peres.
The ceremony took place in the presence of the "Entebbe children," including Shai Gross, Tzipi Cohen Gonen, Benny Davidson, Anat Brodsky, Sabine Teichner Sharon, Regine Teichner-Levy, Ella Rosenkovitch, and others.
New edition of Shimon Peres book unveiled
The gathering also marked the launch of a new edition of Shimon Peres's book, Entebbe Diary, republished by Yedioth Books.
The book chronicles the behind-the-scenes diplomatic, political, and military efforts without which Operation Entebbe could not have been imagined.
"Operation Entebbe is an inspiring operation," said Peres.
"Sorin is an extraordinary source of inspiration and an example of how one can overcome any obstacle through strength of spirit and soul, while maintaining an optimism that is so deeply needed in these times," he added
Hershko said receiving the honor was a very emotional experience.
"It is always moving to receive an honor, but it is also very important who is presenting it to you. Receiving an award of recognition from the Peres Center that is named after Shimon Peres - a man I greatly esteemed - is a double honor, and I thank you."