Jewish Parachutists of Mandate of Palestine facts for kids
The Jewish Parachutists of Mandatory Palestine were a brave group of about 250 Jewish volunteers. They came from a place called Mandatory Palestine, which was controlled by Britain at the time. These volunteers joined the British Army during World War II to fight against the Nazis in Germany.
Their main goal was to help rescue Jewish people who were suffering under Nazi rule, especially during the terrible events of the Holocaust. They also aimed to help Allied prisoners of war.
Who Were the Parachutists?
These volunteers were part of a secret mission. They trained as paratroopers, meaning they would jump out of airplanes behind enemy lines. Their missions were very dangerous. They aimed to connect with local resistance groups and help Jewish communities.
Many of these paratroopers were young and driven by a strong desire to fight injustice. They knew the risks but felt it was their duty to help.
Their Missions and Sacrifice
The paratroopers were sent on missions to different parts of Europe, including Hungary, Slovakia, and Yugoslavia. They faced incredible dangers, including capture and torture. Some were caught by the Nazis and tragically killed.
Their courage helped to boost the morale of Jewish communities and showed the world that Jewish people were actively fighting back. They became symbols of hope and resistance.
Remembering Their Bravery
A special burial site for these heroes is located in Mount Herzl, a national military cemetery in Jerusalem. Here, you can find the graves of three famous paratroopers. There are also four empty graves. These empty graves are a sad reminder of the paratroopers who were killed during the Holocaust and whose bodies were never found.
Their story is an important part of history, showing incredible bravery and sacrifice during one of the darkest times.
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum - Jewish Parachutists from Palestine
