An air display above the Tel Aviv beach on the occasion of the 61st Israeli Independence Day (Yom Ha'atzmaut). Photo: wiki commons.

Ynet – As Israelis headed out to the national parks for the traditional Independence Day barbecue on Tuesday, President Peres marked the country’s 66th year by honoring 120 outstanding soldiers and singing songs, the IDF opened its bases to the public, the IAF held an aerial display across the Israeli sky and contesters from across the world competed at the International Bible Contest.

An honorary IAF aerial display flying over the President’s Residence in Jerusalem on Tuesday morning opened the day’s celebrations. President Shimon Peres and Chief of Staff Benny Gantz then met with 120 outstanding IDF soldiers and officers who will be honored for meaningful service and extraordinary contribution to the IDF and the State of Israel.

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