That was only 18 years. and that short period has been one of miracles in the way of accomplishments and attainments. Besides making the State of Israel a safe haven for more than 1.500.000 homeless and destitute Jews. the Israeli leaders have made their new state a model. prosperous and progressive democracy. By providing refuge. and employment to such a large number of refugee Jews. Israeli leaders performed a difficult humanitarian task with distinction. and at the same time had their rewards in gainIng these industrious people as patriotic citizens. Working with boundless enthusiasm and builtin energy they have turned much of the desert of the country into fertile and cultivable land.