Shlomo Lev-Ami (Levi)

(1919 - 2011)

Ami was born in 1919 at Hartuv and, at a very early age, moved with his family to Petah Tikva. In 1936, he joined the Haganah and graduated from a company commanders course.

Because of the havlega (self-restraint) policy, Ami moved to the Irgun, and took part in reprisals against the Arabs.

In 1941 he was appointed commander of Petah Tikva District and later of Haifa and the North. Was a member of the first General Headquarters established by Menahem Begin.

In early 1945 was handed over to the British by the Haganah and exiled to Africa, where he took part in the great escape of 54 exiles from a detention camp in Eritrea. He was caught after three months and returned to the camp.

Ami returned with the last exiles from Kenyan on July 12, 1948, after the State of Israel was established.

He studied philosophy, history and education at Tel Aviv and Jerusalem Universities. In 1973, he received a doctorate in Jewish history from the Hebrew University.

He also wrote a book: By Strugle and by Revolt (Ministry of Defense).

Sources: The Irgun Site