Biography
Meir Har-Zion (25 February 1934 – 14 March 2014) was an Israeli military commando best known for his role in the early years of Israel's special operations forces. He became prominent as a member of Unit 101, a small and highly active raiding unit of the 1950s.
Early life
Har-Zion was born in Herzliya while the territory was still the British Mandate of Palestine. Details of his upbringing shaped his later reputation as a tough and resourceful field operative.
Military service
During his time in Unit 101, which was formed in the early 1950s and led by Ariel Sharon, Har-Zion took part in cross-border raids and other special operations that drew considerable attention at the time. His actions and skills made him a significant figure within that unit.
Reputation and legacy
Within the Israeli defense establishment Har-Zion was widely regarded as an exceptionally capable commando. Chief of Staff Moshe Dayan called him "the finest of our commando soldiers, the best soldier ever to emerge in the IDF." Ariel Sharon referred to him as "the elite of the elite." These endorsements reflect the high esteem in which many of his contemporaries held him.
Death
Meir Har-Zion died of natural causes on 14 March 2014 at the age of 80. His life and service remain subjects of interest in studies of Israel's early special forces history.