The Druze "Sword Battalion"
16 September 2003
History
1948
On September 10, 1948, a unique "swearing-in" ceremony was held at the Nesher military base in northern Israel. 400 young participants, primarily from the Druze community, swore an oath of loyalty to the IDF and vowed to protect the State of Israel against the invading Arab armies. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Druze "Unit 300 " was formed.
"Unit 300" was fully active in the Israeli War of Independence. Its members transported weapons and gathered intelligence data on Arab leaders.
1956: First Mandatory Recruitment of Military-Age Druze Males
In May, 1956, the first mandatory recruitment of military-age Druze males was implemented.
1972: All Units Available to Druze Soldiers
In 1972, Druze soldiers were able to enlist in all units within the IDF - including the much coveted flight-training course.
"Unit 300" -- Participated in all of Israel's Wars
It should be noted that "Unit 300" has participated in all of Israel's wars. "Unit 300" has traditionally been attached to the Northern Command - which is responsible for a region inhabited by the majority of Israel's Druze population.
The "Sword Battalion" -- Symbol & Anthem
In 1987, "Unit 300" was officially renamed the "Sword Battalion."
The symbol of the "Sword Battalion," crossed swords complimented by the Star of David, is a powerful one - which represents force, sharpness, courage, and devotion. The symbol closely matches the anthem of the Unit: "Our fighters know no fear."
Currently, the "Sword Batallion" is led by Lieutenant Colonel Anwar Saab. The "Sword Batallion" functions as an infantry unit, which has been honored by the OC Northern Command and the IDF Chief of Staff for its dedication as well as operational activities.
2003: IDF Chief of Staff Honors the "Sword Battallion"
On September 14, 2003, the "Sword Battalion" held an event in which the Israeli Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Moshe Ya'alon was present. During the event, Lieut. Gen. Ya'alon stated that:
We find ourselves threatened by a wave of murderous Palestinian terrorism that does not distinguish between civilian and soldier, men and women, old and young, Druze, Christian, Muslim or Jew. Such terror is encouraged by the Palestinian educational system and inciteful media programs broadcasted by the Palestinian Authority.