Half a century ago, the Shabbat day of October 6th, 1973 was also the fasting day of Yom Kippur. All around Israel the morning hours were extremely silent and tranquil, as is typical of this day. At that time, I was on leave from Zahal, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), after three exhausting years of military service, most of it in the Sinai desert.
I was waiting to start my history studies alongside international relations at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. My residence was at a tiny rented room in the basement of the American Alliance Church (Christian & Missionary Alliance – C&MA) compound, at 55 Prophets Street. Although without an adjacent bathroom, this space looked to me like a palace after sleeping almost three years in a fragile tent.
The expectation of being soon discharged from the army after the obligatory army service was like the fulfillment of a long dream. But, alas, around 2 pm sudden dramatic events changed both the day’s peaceful atmosphere and my personal anticipations.
In Sinai
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4 responses to “Yom Kippur War – A Personal Testimony (Part 1)”
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Even when you know something is coming but don’t know when, it is still a surprise. In January of 1968, after faked attacks to create confusion in the enemy, they didn’t fall for it. at the end of January on the night of Tet, they, attacked us. Eight days later we finally got a break and could get a nights rest, I slept for 18 hours, most I ever slept in my life, but I still had my life.
I went to war at the same time the six day war erupted in the ME, we were cheering for Israel then and I cheered for Israel in 1973, I am cheering for Israel even now before the next battle comes because I know how it will end. Those who truly love Israel and her Father, will still be standing when the smoke clears. Not so those who are trying to create a leftist state, they will be lying on the ground with their unbelieving allies.
Hello IT,
Although I am logged in, I never receive the whole article. Can someone change this?
Have a good day
Markus Meili
I’m having the same issue
Shalom,
When this happens it means one’s paid all-access subscription has expired
and a new one needs to be purchased. One the website this is called “Become a member”
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