Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

PM Modi, on his last day in Israel, visited Haifa city, which is 97 kilometers away from Tel Aviv, Israel. This is the place where 44 Indian soldiers sacrificed their lives while protecting the city from the forces of Ottoman Empire, during World War 1. He paid his reverence to all the soldiers. PM Netanyahu accompanied PM Modi in this visit.

Modi said that it was the final resting place for all the 44 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Every year on 23 September, Indian army memorialize this day as Haifa Day and pay respect to the two brave Indian Cavalry Regiments who helped in liberating the city following actions by 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade.

In the last great Cavalry campaign, Indian Brigade was a part of Allied Forces embracing northwards through Palestine. Many of the Indian army officials were awarded Indian Order of Merit and Military Cross, a recognition for their bravery in this battle. Major Dalpat Singh was awarded Military Cross and was named as ‘Hero of Haifa’.

In 201, municipality of Haifa decided to immortalize this day and to include the stories of the heroes in the school curriculum. The municipality also organizes a ceremony every year for the same.

By Mahak