Photo Essay: Independence Day

Israelis were blessed with sunny weather Wednesday as they celebrated the 61st Independence Day of the Jewish State. As always, the celebrations began at sundown the previous day, just as Memorial Day for the nation's fallen ended. The proximity between the two days -- one sad, the other joyous -- has symbolic significance, in that it highlights the sacrifice needed for Israel's independence. However, detractors have said that it lacks sensitivity to the bereaved families and that the days should be moved apart.

Among the celebrants were 3,000 youths from more than 40 countries who gathered in the capital after traveling from Poland last week. The marchers participated in Jerusalem's Independence Day celebrations after having marked Holocaust Remembrance Day by marching from the Auschwitz concentration camp to the Birkenau death camp.

President, Prime Minister and dignitaries watch flyover at Independence Day ceremony.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

IDF Chief of Staff reviews recipients of Excellent Soldier Badge

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Watching the air show at Givat Ram Stadium, Jerusalem

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

 

It isn't Independence Day if you don't bring an inflated hammer down on someone's head...

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

...and fill your friends with goo.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Kids at the Independence Day celebration at Efrat.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Celebrating Independence Day in Ashkelon.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Weapons display at Ammunition Hill, Jerusalem.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

"669" Rescue Unit displays its skills at Tel Aviv air show

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Youths from the world over, back from Poland, end the March of the Living in Jerusalem.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)

Barbecues -- nicknamed 'mangals' -- are a hallmark of the celebrations.

Israel News Photo: (Flash 90)