"Prior to the raising of Israel's flag, U.S. Marines will first raise the American flag, followed by members of the California National Guard raising California's flag. History will follow when Israel Defense Forces soldiers will then raise the flag of Israel. Consul General Dayan explains, "This triumvirate of flags symbolizes the strong, mutually supportive bond that's been built between Israel and the United States as a whole, as well as between Israel and California specifically." Adding, "We deeply value these relationships and wanted to take the occasion of Israel's 60th anniversary to recognize these bonds in a big way."" (thanks Marcy)