The Volunteers: Answering the Call of History
Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin dedicated the memorial to Machal, the volunteers from overseas who came to fight for Israel’s founding, by saying:
"You came to us when we needed you most, during those difficult, uncertain days in our War of Independence. You gave us not only your experience, but your lives as well. The people of Israel and the State of Israel will never forget, and will always cherish, this unique contribution made by you -- the volunteers of Machal."
In the critical years from 1946 - 1949, Jews (and some non-Jews) from around the world volunteered to help build and defend the State of Israel. Discreet efforts were made in the US and Europe to recruit manpower, acquire weapons, army surplus, and even airplanes and aircraft carriers. Experienced WWII veterans came to Palestine and formed the basis of Israel’s fledgling Air Force and Navy.
Toldot Yisrael's new movie,The Volunteers: Answering the Call of History, tells the stories of people like: Vidal Sassoon, who left a hairdressing apprenticeship in England to come fight in the Palmach; Yeshiva University Chancellor Norman Lamm who volunteered in a bullet making factory in upstate NY; Harold Katz, who dropped out of Harvard Law School to help bring illegal immigrants to Palestine, and others who volunteered to help found the State of Israel.
Sample Discussion Questions:
- Why were people volunteering to come to Israel in 1948?
- Were the voluteers frightened? Describe the different emotions that the volunteers experienced.
- Did you related to any of the volunteers' stories? How? Did they remind you of anyone you know?
- Can you imagine believing in a cause so deeply that you would drop everything and leave your home to help?
Other Yom Ha'aztmaut Activities from our friends at Babaganewz
Stories from Israel's Pre-state Helpers Now on Film
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