Shiurim v'Siyurim: Siyur and Jeeping trip in Nitzan

This week, we continued our Shiurim v’Siyurim program (click here or here) with an outstanding Siyur and Jeeping trip to Nitzan.

Click here for pictures!

In December 1943, the JNF-KKL purchased a 400 acres plot of land, including a citrus orchard, a well and a vineyard on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in order to assist the “illegal” immigration to Israel. This settlement, known as Nitzanim, was cut off from the center of the country during the War of Independence in 1948.

 

On our siyur, we heard about the “Baby Evacuation” where most of the women and all of the children slipped into the relative safety of the center of the country. We also heard about the 10 women who stayed behind with the men to stop Egyptian troops from advancing on Tel Aviv.

The fierce battle for Nitzanim lasted more than 14 hours and resulted in 33 fighters – including 3 women – were killed.

The heroism of the women in this area – and around Israel - led to the development of the site as a place for identifying with female soldiers and the initiative construction of a Women of Valor Center in Nitzanim.

Part of our siyur included a fun and “daring” Jeeping trip through the sand dunes of Ashdod! We saw beautiful sights, learned about the fauna in the area (especially connected to Tanach) and heard inspiring stories!

A great time was had by all!