To Alan – July 29
Guard Duty on Kibbutz
“We took machine guns (he showed me how to use it) and we went out to make the rounds.”
GUARD DUTY ON THE KIBBUTZ
Confidential to Alan
Monday Afternoon July 29th, 1957
Dear Alan,
I’m sitting now on a kibbutz in the Galli. It is beautiful. I came here yesterday by bus.
At about 9 at night we had a meeting after which by accident I met one of the men who was on guard duty & asked him if I could come along. We took machine guns (he showed me how to use it) and we went out to make the rounds. The guard knew everything – where to wait and listen and what to do. Luckily they have some huge watch dogs which they turn loose so there isn’t anything to worry about.
It is common knowledge that any trouble to a kibbutz now brings an attack which blows up the nearest arab base. Today I saw my first bunch of Israeli warplanes while I was out in the fields near here. They looked great. Modern jets.
This morning I saw some Arabs that came to water sheep. They live in Israel & are very friendly.
I also met a bunch of 18 year olds who are Paratroopers. They sure looked tough. I pity any Arab that would start with them. Each could easily beat up Stanley and I put together. Too bad you’re not here.
Your Pal Bob
P.S. I hope you are a good boy & taking good care of Mom & Dad
David’s Comments:
Add link to HU Mt. Scopus and Givat Ram. Getting to Mt. Scopus during Jordanian rule.
The need to build Givat Ram since access to Mt. Scopus too dangerous.