Israel 11,
March 24, 2024,
Hi Everyone,
I packed last evening before bedtime leaving half of my belongings in a suitcase which I checked at the hotel. I brought too much clothes, not realizing that they provide full uniforms at the base which can be wear all day and in the evening. I managed to keep my army jacket which is really useful as it is chilly in the evening and in the morning.
We took a pre-arranged van to the airport and were assigned to our respective groups. Several of the volunteers are staying a 2nd week and there was of course a new contingent. On arrival to the base we were given uniforms and rooms which are shared. Apparently this base is somewhat more luxurious than other bases where people sleep in tents with 8-10 ‘guests’.
We sorted medical supplies in an open tent which is nicer than a warehouse. The work itself is tedious but we all realize that we are helping the war effort and that there is no one else to do it. The soldiers are all off at the front and foreign workers are non existent.
We had a meeting in the evening with our commanders who are once again young very enthusiastic girls . One is from the Ukraine and the other from Argentina. Each of them as well as the volunteers had to present themselves, state their reasons for coming to Israel and recite one funny thing about themselves. A few of us were missing spring skiing. The theme was quite similar among us. Each of us came because they just couldn’t stay at home when the war started.
The Israelis are very disappointed with the reaction of the world and especially about the vicious antisemitic demonstrations, cloaked as antizionism, that they see and hear about everywhere. It is as if Oct. 7, didn’t exist. If Israel does not put an end to the organization that did this to them, it will happen again. The leaders of Hamas make no secret of their intentions in the future. Cease fire means, Israel ceases and they fire! There is rocket fire from Hezbolah in the north and 150,000 people have been displaced. Where is the out cry about this in the world?
Love,
Brian
gobriantravel 