Winter officially retired from the IDF: "Thank you to the commanders who were with me on the side of truth""

December 6, 2024   

Brigadier General Ofer Winter, one of the greatest warriors the IDF has ever known, officially retired from the army this week, after being sent on retirement leave by Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. In his retirement letter, Winter thanked his family, his commanders, his subordinates, and the public who stood by him. "With praise and thanksgiving to God Almighty, I officially retired from the IDF this week. I am grateful for the great privilege that has fallen to my lot to serve the people of Israel for 34 years, out of a sense of mission and humility. "Thank you to my beloved family for a shared journey. You are my strength. Thank you to my friends, beloved brothers, who are walking the path with us. Great appreciation to my commanders who led me and were by my side in the complex moments as well as in the great moments. Who were not confused by the background noise and were there with me on the side of the truth." Winter added: "A special thank you to the thousands of soldiers and commanders, officers and combatants who followed me through fire and water for three and a half decades. To the bereaved families who walk with me on the path - my military service is over, but our partnership is forever. I hug you today, every day. I am with you. "With God's help, I will continue to be a faithful emissary of our beloved country. Thank you for the privilege. Together and only together will we win." Winter retired from the IDF after several years in which he was not promoted to a significant position. Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi informed him about six months ago that he was effectively being removed from active service in the IDF. During Operation Protective Edge, a storm arose due to the letter he sent to his soldiers before going into battle, in which he mentioned the name of God and included a prayer in preparation for going into battle.