A special place in Jewish history is reserved for the Machal fighters of 1948. These were primarily World War II veterans, who volunteered to fight for Israel during its War of Independence, and their participation served a key role in Israel’s victory. Comprised mostly of Jews, but included non-Jews as well, they formed the nucleus of Israel’s nascent air force, navy, and filled many specialized roles in the army.
One of the most important members of this volunteer corps was Al Schwimmer, an American Jewish veteran who organized a group of pilots and experienced aviation personnel on Israel’s behalf. He also organized the purchase of planes for Israel’s Air Force, transported the planes to Czechoslovakia, and then used the planes to bring badly needed weapons and ammunition to fight for Israel’s survival.
Cross River, a leading financial institution committed to supporting its communities, is proud to sponsor Jewish History Soundbites. As a trusted partner for individuals and businesses, Cross River understands the importance of preserving and celebrating our heritage. By sponsoring this podcast, they demonstrate their unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of the communities in which they serve. Visit Cross River at https://www.crossriver.com/
Subscribe to Jewish History Soundbites Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ or your favorite podcast platform
Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites
For sponsorship opportunities about your favorite topics of Jewish history or feedback contact Yehuda at: yehuda@yehudageberer.com
Great American Jewish Cities #10: Philadelphia
Stories of Ner Israel Part I
Great American Jewish Cities #9: Seattle
All the Kings Men: Great Leaders in the Court of Ger
Great American Jewish Cities #8: Montreal
From Refugee to Royalty: Rav Shneur & Rebbitzin Rishel Kotler
Making of a Godol Stories Part II
The Prophet of Doom & The Prophetess of Comfort: The Story of the Leibowitz Siblings
Great American Jewish Cities #7: Pittsburgh
The History of The Volozhin Yeshiva Part 5: Closing Time
Washington Heights Part II: Rav Schachter Remembers
Great American Jewish Cities #6 Washington Heights Part I
Making of a Godol Stories Part I
Of Bombs & Money: The Desperate Attempts to Save Hungarian Jewry
Great American Jewish Cities #5: Chicago
From Shanghai to East New York: Stories of Bais Hatalmud
A Bittersweet Victory: The 1948 Battle for Jerusalem
Great American Jewish Cities #4: Cincinnati
Wisdom & Dignity: The Life and Lessons of Rav Moshe Shapiro
Great American Jewish Cities #3: Crown Heights
Join Podbean Ads Marketplace and connect with engaged listeners.
Advertise Today
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Hello Heaven Podcast
Rav Gershon Ribner
The Nightingale of Iran
For Heaven’s Sake
Unpacking Israeli History
Unorthodox