Rivlin giving packages to soldiers
Rivlin giving packages to soldiersצילום: מארק ניימן/לע"מ

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin visited border police officers stationed at the Ofer checkpoint north of Jerusalem Sunday, where he handed out Mishloach Manot (Purim gift baskets) to the soldiers.

"I came to tell you, both in my name and the name of my wife, Nechama, how proud we are of you and how grateful we are," Rivlin told the soldiers.

The packages which were handed out to the female soldiers contained a Biblical passage from the book of Judges, from the story of the Prophetess Devorah. "And Barak said to her: If you will go with me, then I will go. But if you will not go with me, then I will not go - our soldiers and heroines, we love and embrace you for all that you give. Go with this strength and protect Israel. [Love,] Nechama and Ruby."

The President listened to the soldiers as they described their daily routines in guarding he security of the State and said "Next to any great soldier is a great female soldier. You are the essence of our ability to celebrate the holiday of Purim in peace and quiet."

Rivlin told the soldiers that female fighters were an integral part of the development and survival of the State in its early years.

Company Commander Amir Peres thanked the President for his visit and for the packages he delivered. The soldiers also posed with Rivlin for a large photograph.