This morning (Wednesday) in the Armored Corps Memorial in Latrun, a ceremony was held for the appointment of the new commander of the IDF Ground Forces. Participating were Chief of Staff Gadi Eizenkot, outgoing Ground Forces commander Major-General Guy Tzur, and incoming commander Major-General Kobi Barak.

General Tzur has served in the position for the past three years, and is expected to retire from the IDF after 36 years of service.

In his speech at the event, Chief of Staff Eizenkot spoke about the IDF's multi-year revamping plan, code-named "Gideon", saying that the plan is aimed at optimizing the IDF's readiness for emergency situations and its ability to fulfill its self-stated mandate to "protect the country and win wars."

"As part of the plan we have initiated processes that will strengthen the Ground Forces and will guarantee its readiness and capabilities. We are in the midst of an unprecedented process of merging the Ground Forces with the Technological and Logistics Directorate, with the goal of clarifying areas of jurisdiction over ground operations, establishing a strong logistical chain of command, and free the General Staff to focus on high command."

Eizenkot said the long-term plan brings with it many challenges, but is a great opportunity to improve the IDF, to develop it, and to streamline it.

"[Incoming commander] Kobi, I see you as the best man for the job of commanding the Ground Forces, together with your fellow officers," said the Chief of Staff, "you all have a great responsibility in bringing the 'Gideon' plan to fruition.

"Guy, you're wrapping up 36 years of service at the pinnacle of the IDF operational command. In the past three and a half years you commanded the Ground Forces and presided over important changes. In the name of the whole IDF, I want to thank you for your important contribution to Israel's security over the years," Eizenkot added.

The outgoing commander General Guy Tzur addressed his replacement in his speech.

"Kobi, I'm turning over to you the command that has been my precious charge for the past three and a half years. I have no doubt that you're the right man in the right position and that you have a bright future ahead of you.

"With great pride and satisfaction, I turn over to you the command of a powerful branch, conspicuous in its presence in the IDF, that is led by officers who prove that the generations aren't diminishing. A branch that leads ground operations with confident knowledge of where they should be led."

Incoming commander General Kobi Barak spoke about the momentousness of the occasion, and expressed his gratitude to and respect for his predecessor. "Here, in the memorial for the fallen Armored Corps warriors, I receive the command over building the IDF's strength on the ground. I feel pride and excitement. A great privilege, and a grave responsibility have become my lot in my duty to command the Ground Forces in the coming years.

"Guy, 12 years ago you and I stood in this spot in a similar ceremony for the 401 Brigade. Then, as today, your quality as a commander and a man influenced your unit and brought it great successes. Under your leadership, the Ground Forces branch has established a far-reaching vision based on innovative, groundbreaking thought that clearly defines the direction in which the Ground Forces must go. In the name of the entire Ground Forces, I wish you success in all your future endeavors."