Israeli Independence Day: IAF flyovers, Navy flotilla, bases open to the public

The events marking Israel's 68th Independence Day that began Wednesday evening with the annual torch-lighting ceremony on Mt. Herzl continued on Thursday with air force flyovers across the country including fighter planes, attack helicopters, and transport planes and helicopters. The air force's aerobatic team performed in the skies above Tel Aviv's beaches and at the air force's Hatzerim, Haifa and Ramat David bases. Meanwhile, the Navy held a flotilla in Eilat including missile boats and patrol boats that also protected the city's beaches from any terrorist attack. Many IDF bases were open to the general public for the day, including the Horon base in the Samaria region where an exhibition by the "Oketz" elite canine unit was held. Most city museums nationwide offered free admission, and holidaymakers were permitted to enter certain IDF training areas. Also, the International Bible Quiz was held at the Jerusalem Theater, and the day's events concluded with the Israel Prize ceremony at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem.