IN THREE WARS-Bio of S. African Dr.'s Service to the State of Israel

Dr. Cyril Kaplan Med. School graduate in Cape Town '1940 and deployed to the Middle East as a physician.  During the war, Dr. Kaplan 1st visited Palestine.  After WWII he specialized in orthopedic surgery in England.  After completing his medical training, Dr. Kaplan volunteered as a surgeon in the 1948 Israeli War.  IN THREE WARS gives a 1st hand account of the implausible struggles for Israel's existence.  Dr. Kaplan was an early pioneer in the medical field for a new nation who fought for its Independence and survival; through the War of Attrition & Yom Kippur War.  Israel's improbable proliferation parallels the amazing altruistic life of a young surgeon.  Dr. Kaplan's struggles to establish & provide basic care with rudimentary provisions during harsh wartime conditions is incredulous.   Dr. Kaplan's own assessment of his role is minimized, "I don't think it has been tremendous.. but I think it has been useful." He pays extensive tribute to the many dedicated medical personnel who worked incessantly and to the many brave young people who went into battle.  Dr. Kaplan found love during the tumultuous years of Israel's early history with his persistent pursuit of another S. African physician who became his wife.  Dr. Kaplan also reflected on S. Africa's own problems with apartheid and other African government's oppression & cruelty to their own people.  This is a compelling life story during a ferocious era.  Dr. Kaplan's insight is never-ending "All wars are completely wasteful and wicked."