This Day in History: The Tragic Helicopter Crash
Forty-two years ago today, an Israeli Air Force helicopter crashed during an exercise, resulting in the death of 54 soldiers.
- דבי רייכמן
- פורסם כ"ג אייר התשע"ט
(Illustrative photo: shutterstock) #VALUE!
On the 23rd of Iyar, 5747, forty-two years ago, one of the greatest tragedies in IDF history occurred: The helicopter disaster. During an exercise in the Jordan Valley, a Yas'ur helicopter of the Israeli Air Force crashed, killing 54 soldiers (the number translates to the Hebrew 'n"d') – 44 of whom were paratroopers and officers from the Paratroopers Brigade, along with 10 aircrew members who participated in the flight.
The flight was part of an extensive paratrooper brigade exercise and took place north of the city of Jericho. Even after the crash, it was decided to continue the exercise because, in war, such disasters can occur and combat must go on.
The hill where the helicopter crashed is now called 'The n"d Hill,' and at its top stands the n"d Monument in memory of those who fell. In additional cities throughout the country, gardens, monuments, and various institutions have been established and named in memory of the fallen in this tragedy.
