The Stern Gang and Irgun Anthem "Unknown Soldiers"

The Lehi Anthem "Unknown Soldiers" The lyrics of "Unknown Soldiers" were written by Avraham 'Yair' Stern, the founder of Lehi. This was one of the first songs written by 'Yair'. Yair composed the song together with his wife Roni. The song became the anthem of Etzel and remained so until 1940 when Lehi broke into a separate group. The song expresses an unlimited willingness to sacrifice. The anthem is used by veteran members of the group in gatherings as well as by some political groups from time to time, from both ends of the political map. Full text of the song : UNKNOWN SOLDIERS by Yair - Avraham Stern We are unknown soldiers, unifo rms we have none, In death's shadow we march, in its terror, Volunteering to sever to the end of our days, Only death from our duty can us sever. In days red with slaughter, destruction and blood, Nights black with pain and despair, Over village and town our flag we'll unfurl, Love and freedom the message 'twill bear. Not like slaves brought to heel were we dragged to the fight, In strange lands our life's blood to squander, And if we must die our people to free, We are willing our lives to surrender. In days red with slaughter... With obstacles rising to block every move, By fate cruelly sent to entrap us, Neither enemy, prison or miserable spy Will we ever permit to divert us. In days red with slaughter... Should we happen to fall in some building or street, T o be furtively buried by night, Many thousands of others will rise in our stead To defend and continue the fight. In days red with slaughter... With the tears of mothers bereaved of their young, Sacred infant's blood want only spilt, We'll cement the bricks of our bodies for walls And our homeland will surely be built In days red with slaughter, destruction and blood, Nights black with pain and despair, Over village and town our flag we'll unfurl Love and freedom the message 'twill bear.