Today marks 15 years since Israeli navigator Ron Arad has been missing. A formation of planes flew over the Israeli coast this afternoon - with one plane missing, symbolizing the absence of Arad.
On Oct. 16, 1986, Capt. Ron Arad\'s Phantom aircraft flying over Sidon, Lebanon, blew up due to mechanical problems. Arad and the pilot bailed out and landed safely, but members of PLO and Shi\'ite gangs operating in the area surrounded the area. The pilot was rescued in a daring IDF helicopter operation, but navigator Ron Arad was taken prisoner by Lebanese Shi\'ite Amal terrorists, and has apparently been held captive ever since by several Iranian-backed terrorist organizations. The last sign of life from Arad, who is now 43, was received 13 years ago. The website \"http://www.ron-arad.org.il/\" provides additional information, including details on his lack of basic POW rights.
Ceremonies were held in his honor throughout the country today, with the main ones in Eilat and Hammei Yoav. Students distributed literature on Arad to all those entering Ben-Gurion International Airport, and citizens were asked to fly blue balloons.
On Oct. 16, 1986, Capt. Ron Arad\'s Phantom aircraft flying over Sidon, Lebanon, blew up due to mechanical problems. Arad and the pilot bailed out and landed safely, but members of PLO and Shi\'ite gangs operating in the area surrounded the area. The pilot was rescued in a daring IDF helicopter operation, but navigator Ron Arad was taken prisoner by Lebanese Shi\'ite Amal terrorists, and has apparently been held captive ever since by several Iranian-backed terrorist organizations. The last sign of life from Arad, who is now 43, was received 13 years ago. The website \"http://www.ron-arad.org.il/\" provides additional information, including details on his lack of basic POW rights.
Ceremonies were held in his honor throughout the country today, with the main ones in Eilat and Hammei Yoav. Students distributed literature on Arad to all those entering Ben-Gurion International Airport, and citizens were asked to fly blue balloons.