With the 6th Airborne Division in Palestine: A Soldier's Account of the Post-War Years, 1945-1948

Prologue

In the aftermath of World War II, the 6th Airborne Division was deployed to Palestine to assist in maintaining order during a period of intense political turmoil. The division's mission was to prevent violence between Arab and Jewish factions, as well as to protect British interests in the region. This article presents an eyewitness account from a soldier who served with the 6th Airborne Division during those years, providing a unique perspective on the complexities and challenges of the post-war era in Palestine.

Arrival in Palestine

In September 1945, the 6th Airborne Division arrived in Palestine, a land steeped in history and conflict. The division was tasked with establishing a presence in key areas of the country, including Jerusalem, Haifa, and Nablus. The soldiers quickly encountered the complexities of the situation, with deep-rooted tensions between Arab and Jewish communities.

With 6th Airborne Division in Palestine, 1945–1948

by Dare Wilson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17631 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	356 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Maintaining Order

The division's primary mission was to maintain order and prevent violence. This proved to be a challenging task, as both Arab and Jewish factions engaged in acts of sabotage, terrorism, and retaliation. The soldiers were often caught in the crossfire, attempting to quell disturbances while respecting the rights of both communities.

The Challenges of Occupation

Serving as an occupying force in Palestine presented unique challenges for the 6th Airborne Division. The soldiers were often perceived with suspicion and hostility by the local population. They also faced the moral dilemma of maintaining order while witnessing the human cost of the conflict.

The Human Toll

The post-war years in Palestine were marked by violence and bloodshed. The 6th Airborne Division suffered casualties in the line of duty, and the soldiers witnessed the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians. The human toll of the occupation weighed heavily on the minds of those who served.

Withdrawal and Legacy

In 1948, the British Mandate in Palestine ended, and the 6th Airborne Division withdrew from the country. The legacy of the division's service in Palestine is complex and multifaceted. While the soldiers played a role in maintaining order, their presence also contributed to the tensions and violence that characterized the period.

The experiences of the 6th Airborne Division in Palestine provide valuable insights into the complexities of post-war occupation and conflict resolution. The soldiers who served in the division witnessed firsthand the human cost of war and the challenges of maintaining order in a deeply divided society. Their accounts offer a sobering reminder of the difficulty in finding lasting peace in the face of historical grievances and political turmoil.

With 6th Airborne Division in Palestine, 1945–1948

by Dare Wilson

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	17631 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	356 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE