The Golan Heights
It is only by visiting the Golan Heights that one can truly understand the strategic importance of this critical northern area of Israel on the border with Syria. Today's adventure took us to the Tel Dan Reserve and excavation site, Banias, Mt. Bental, and stops to view the Israeli-Syrian border, in plain site and only 40 kilometers from Damascus. We were privileged to watch a movie about the battle for the Golan during the Yom Kippur War in 1973. Israel was attacked on this most holy of days and was unprepared for the onslaught by both Egypt and Syria. The Israeli army, enormously outnumbered in manpower, tanks, and artillery by the Syrian army in the north, and in the face of unbelievable odds, held fast and defeated the enemy. To use the words “heroic” and “courageous” doesn't come close to describing the bravery and determination of these soldiers who knew the fate of Israel was in their hands. The images of the movie, including communication between the Israeli commander and the army, much of which was shot during the battle, will stay with me for a long time.
Visits to an olive mill for lunch and the Golan Winery for a tour and tasting completed a remarkable and important day in appreciating one critical piece of the history of this country.
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