Shimon Peres at 93
Israel’s Ninth President Shimon Peres has turned 93…and received a surprise birthday celebration in front of hundreds of soldiers and officers of the Military Intelligence Research Division.
Photo: Yosef Angel
The soldiers took to the stage, sang “Happy Birthday” and presented him with a cake with 93 candles.
Head of Research Gen. Dror Shalom presented Peres with a gift on behalf of the IDF, a shofar, on which was written “and he sees the sword coming against the land and blows the trumpet to warn the people” and said: “As someone who was a key partner in building the country and its security system, this is the natural place to wish you a happy birthday. You are one of the most influential actors in national security and a great source of pride for us.”
Peres emotionally thanked the soldiers and said: “I’m not so young anymore, but I see you before me and know that we can expect a bright future. I am very proud of the army and proud of its commanders. They are the best gift I could ask for.” He added with a smile: “If I borrow some of your youth I would do it, but they have not yet invented such a bank. Thank you”.
