Bidspirit auction | ”The security of the state

”The security of the state cannot forgo a man like you” – a moving letter from David Ben-Gurion to IDF Chief of Staff Mordechai Maklef - A moving letter sent by David Ben-Gurion to Chief of Staff Mordechai Maklef upon his departure for studies and temporary leave from the IDF – typewritten on official Prime Minister’s letterhead, and signed in Ben-Gurion’s own hand. Jerusalem, 3 Tevet 5712 / January 1, 1952. In the letter, Ben-Gurion warmly blesses Maklef as he embarks on his studies and expresses his wish that Maklef return to serve in the IDF, seeing him as the most suitable person to continue serving as Chief of Staff of the young State of Israel. ”I see your departure for studies only as a temporary pause in your blessed service in the Israel Defense Forces, ” writes Ben-Gurion. He addresses Maklef’s desire to turn to agriculture, but pleads with him that he was meant for military service: ”I cannot for a moment believe that you would flee from the destiny of your life.” Ben-Gurion goes on to offer exceptional words of praise regarding Maklef’s contribution to the army: ”Our younger generation has been blessed with many talents and great abilities, this is the stronghold of security for our people and our state, but I know that there are not many like you in the IDF, and the security of the state cannot forgo a man like you.” He concludes with the hope that Maklef will stand by his side in future efforts. (At the beginning of the letter, Ben-Gurion expresses disappointment that Maklef had refused to command the central front, having considered himself unfit for the role: ”I am certain that in this argument between us, the justice was on my side, ” Ben-Gurion writes). Mordechai Maklef, the third Chief of Staff of the IDF, served in the position from 1952 to 1953, following his appointment by David Ben-Gurion. Maklef was known as a determined, quiet, and efficient figure, closely associated with Ben-Gurion both professionally and personally. Ben-Gurion admired his intelligence and his direct, unpretentious manner, viewing him as a commander capable of strengthening the young army and addressing the challenges of the time.  Under Maklef’s leadership, the IDF began to take shape as a regular, well-organized army, and the foundations for long-term planning were laid. Despite his brief tenure, the close cooperation between him and Ben-Gurion contributed significantly to building the IDF’s strength in its formative years.  [2] leaves. Official letterhead of David Ben-Gurion. Filing holes. Very good condition.