This song (until 01:52) was the anthem of the Palmach, the elite fighting force of the Haganah, the underground army of the Yishuv during the British Mandate of Palestine. Founded in 1941, the Palmach was officially disbanded with the creation of Israel’s official army after the establishment of the State of Israel, with many of its members forming the backbone of the IDF. The song, which describes the dedication and strength of the Palmach, was composed by David Zehavi and the lyrics, translated below in English, were written by Gilad Zerubavel.
The Song of the Palmach
Though the storm is ever mounting
Still our heads remain unbowed.
We are ready to obey all commands,
The Palmach will win – we’ve vowed.
From Metulla to the Negev,
From the desert to the plain,
All our youth defend the homeland,
Till we bring it peace again.
In the eagle’s path we follow,
Over mountain tracks we go,
Among stony heights and caverns
We are seeking out the foe.
When you summon us to battle,
We will be there first by day or night,
We are ready when you give the command,
The Palmach will march in might.