Gush Ezion

Reverse

The reverse depicts a view of typical scenes in Gush Etzion. Above is the verse "Go up the mountain and bring wood and build the house" (Haggai 1:8), with the English translation below.

Edge

Lettering: The State emblem with the words "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English.

Comment

During the five years preceding the War of Independence, the following kibbutzim were established in the Etzion region: Kfar Etzion, Massuot Yitzhak, Ein Tzurim, Revadim. The Gush Etzion settlements were cut off from Jerusalem in May 1948, but they continued to hold out and defend themselves for some time, until they fell. The defenders of the Gush saved Jerusalem for Israel by their stubborn fight and resistance. Following the Six Day War, Gush Etzion was resettled. A special medal was issued to mark the 13th Anniversary of Resettlement.