Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Gen. Orde Wingate Was Mourned by Zionists; Taught Jews Guerilla Tactics Against Arabs

April 3, 1944
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Maj. Gen. Orde Charles Wingate, leader of an Imperial air-borne Commando force who was killed in an airplane crash in Burma, was mourned here today by Zionist leaders who recalled his activities in Palestine during the 1936 Arab disturbances.

Gen. Wingate, one of the most colorful figures in modern warfare, taught the Jews in Palestine guerilla tactics to counteract the Arab terrorists. He spoke fluent Hebrew and was sympathetic with Jewish aspirations in Palestine.

Writing in the Manchester Guardian, L. Namier, a British Zionist leader, says: “Gen. Wingate was one of the greatest friends who the Jews particularly the Palestine Jews, had in cur time. He seemed predestined to become the leader of the Palestine Jewish fighting force. This was his ambition and dream, as it was the most fervent wish of the young Jews in Palestine to serve under him in this war. He became a legend among Jews and Arabs, but his friendship for Jews was frowned upon both in Jerusalem and in Cairo.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement