"Arbel, only yesterday you fought so bravely and courageously under heavy fire in Gaza and today we are here paying our respects and saying goodbye. It is strange to speak about a soldier in the past tense, especially one such as yourself, Arbel, so dominant, brave and everyone's friend.

You could always be seen leading your soldiers, whether in routine activities or in battle.

As a unit sergeant, you took care of all your soldiers' needs, both large and small.
I remember meetings with you during briefings before and after an operation.

Always so professional, always so eloquent and above all with a clear and concise opinion, you always knew to stand your ground and you were never afraid to say what's in your heart.

Last night, once again you were leading your men, and this time as a machine gunner, you were killed by those terrorists. You fought heroically and with determination to complete the mission, at the head of our forces, setting an example for the rest of the company under fire, during combat and just as you always did during routine times.

For months now, we are fighting those terrorists who are determined to disturb our lives and harm the children of Sderot and of the Negev.

We have been given this important task, a mission and mitzvah to stop those terrorists. The best way to do this is by conducting surgical incursions led by brave and qualified commanders and soldiers such as you.

Arbel, it is important for you to know that your friends completed their mission and acted with determination and commendable courage in order to attain the objectives of this operation and reach your murderers.

Reich family, no words can console you or compensate for your loss, although one thing I can tell you is that Arbel fell in defense of the State of Israel, its residents, and her citizens with the understanding of the significance of this operation. Arbel fully believed in this mission and acted accordingly.

Moshe, Yael, Moran and Einav, yesterday on the 26th of Tamuz, July 12, 2007 at 3:00 in the morning our fates were tied in blood, the Givati Reconnaissance Battalion and Brigade will do all that it can to ease your suffering, even if only in a small way.
I hug and embrace you into our hearts and promise to continue to act in the spirit of Arbel, both as a commander and a soldier.

Arbel's legacy will be a candle to our feet.
We are with you for all eternity.

Arbel, I salute you in your final path, may your soul rest in peace"