Story, video, and photos by James Allina
TEL AVIV, Isael — When Rosalyn and I planned our trip to Austria and Israel, I had no idea that this would be a lifetime experience for either of us. I only know that I wanted to visit my grandmother’s brother who at 86 lived in a small town outside of Vienna. He recently had a heart attack, was very frail, and confined for most of the time to a wheelchair. That part of the trip was a very depressing time for all of us. We left Austria on April 15, and arrived in Tel Aviv at 2:30 Israeli time (which is 11 hours ahead of P.S.T-West Coast time).
My wife, who goes by the name of Roz, wanted to visit Eilat, which is 350 miles from Tel Aviv, and other sites such as Haifa, and Rachel’s Tomb. We did have an appointment to visit Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem on Tuesday April 17, because Roz who is a social worker for UC San Diego. was interested in the Israeli facility. There we saw the Chagall Windows but that was not the most memorable portion of our trip. Nor did we see any of the proposed sights we had planned.
On April 15, as we were about ready to retrieve our luggage from our flight to Israel, we heard an air raid siren sound, and not only Roz and I, but all of Israel stopped doing what they were doing and stood silently as all of Israel recalled those who died fighting for the State. Again the air raid sounded and life resumed as usual. I could only think this is a remarkably compassionate gesture of unity.
I read something before we left on our trip that a celebration was to take place in Israel, and it mentioned Independence Day. I always had associated Israel’s Independence with Ben-Gurion’s proclamation in May 1948. However, this year, when April 18 arrived and even the day before it, Israeli Flags were fluttering in the breeze. Israel, of course, follows the Hebrew calendar, accounting for the difference in dates.
On the morning of April 18, we watched from the beach in Tel Aviv (our hotel was 5 minutes away), fly overs with Israeli military aircraft and parachutists plummeting down into the Mediterranean Sea. Frequently military aircraft performed difficult maneuvers right before our eyes. As the day became evening, Roz and I decided to walk from our hotel to Rabin Square, an approximate four- mile walk, to partake in the celebration of Israel’s 70th Independence Day.
When we arrived, there was still light, and on the stage at Rabin Square (which is the center of the City), the performers were still practicing their choreography, so we were able to see the previews. We could see there was plenty of security around, because there were cute toddlers running around with one toddler who wore a “Minnie Mouse” headband which had two Star of David imprinted on the “ears,” so there was never any danger where we were. There would be many thousands of people who would attend that night. The celebration originated in Jerusalem and was video broadcast throughout its entirety world-wide.
From Jerusalem the celebration continued to Tel Aviv to Rabin Square where we along with countless other enthralled attendees watched, sang along, and rejoiced in the fantastic performances of Israeli singers and dancers for over 2 1/2 hours. Never stopping, each unique performing group dazzled in the brilliance of stage lights and scenic graphics that even Walt Disney could envy. Fireworks above a building in back of Rabin Square culminated that night. Note also the building below the fireworks.
But that night was only the beginning. The following night was just as spectacular. The parade route was along Namir Road, south of Rabin Square. Namir Road is a large arterial road that can handle the heavy traffic (as well as military tanks which were featured in the parade), in Tel Aviv. We walked from our hotel to Namir Road, arriving there minutes before the crowds. Less than five minutes later, we were sandwiched in by throngs of people who also wanted to celebrate the State of Israel’s 70th Birthday.
Barriers were put in place so the parade could pass safely, and no one would get injured. As usual, the police and military were present so nothing could destroy this memorable night.
Search lights illuminatied the sky and a police convoy cleared the path before the parade, followed by trucks as far as the eye could see. Many of the trucks pulled floats with very sophisticated electronic signs that were constantly in motion. On top of the floats, singers, dancers and bands played as the convoy proceeded. In between floats, the Israeli Police Band played, followed by various organizations in illuminated electronic outfits. Magen David Adom showcased its rescue helicopter, and vehicles used to transport those in need.
Military tanks and boats were highlights of the parade, followed by Israeli Defense Force soldiers walking in formation. Multiple rows of people on both sides of the road shouted and clapped loudly in a show of love and support for the IDF. The parade lasted for over two hours. But the memories will last a lifetime. Hallelujah!
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Allina is a freelance writer based in San Diego.