Unveiling a cement wall with the victims' names inscribed on it, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke of the legacy of heroism which the victims had left behind and "the great dedication they displayed in the face of fire as they went out to save lives.
"Comfort can also be found in the fact that the entire nation of Israel recognises this legacy," he added. "Even when this mountain will be entirely green again, the memory of your loved ones will remain present here forever,"
The Knesset Speaker, Reuven Rivlin, also spoke at the ceremony, acknowledging the widespread criticism that Israel was "caught unprepared" when the fire spread.
"We must translate our rage and fury into a determined demand for change and comprehensive reforms that will protect us from natural disasters," he added.
The initial suspicion was that the fire was sparked by teenagers playing in the area, but the case against them collapsed earlier this year for lack of evidence.
