Inside the IDF Photo Essay: Israel´s Independence Day

Israel's Independence Day is this Thursday. In the IDF, soldiers have already begun preparations for the festive day - the modern State of Israel's 57th birthday.

Published: May 10, 2005, 4:52 PM (GMT+3)

Updated: 5/9/2005, 4:10:12 PM

IDF soldiers wearing Israeli flags ahead of Israel's Independence Day.

IDF Soldier pose with flags ahead of Independence Day.

IDF soldier enjoying a snack below his lookout post ahead of Israel's Independence Day.

Chief of Staff Lieut.-Gen. Moshe Yaalon visiting the new excavations in the City of David, just outside the Old City's Dung Gate in Jerusalem.

IDF soldiers from the Givati Brigade finish their final grueling run before they graduate basic training.