November - Department of Defence

SA SOLDIERThe official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence6111213141516Letters:feedback from our readersBursaries donatedto two learnersPresident Mbeki visitsour chopper squadronOur Deputy Ministervisits Navy OfficePeacekeeping efforts ofour Air Force in BurundiMore than pyramidsand sphinxesOpening the skiesof PretoriaBuilt in Germany butEqual opportunities18Proudly South Africanfor all242630313234Salute the courageousspirit of womenWomen to flytheir own flagZoom in ondistance learningInstil disciplinein our ArmyThe success of Phidisalies in communicationReopening of Air ForceCommand and Control School40424546…A quest for thecrown of gloryPlay soccer whileexpanding friendshipsFormer enemiesreconciled with rugby37The initiativeof a single man...STREET ADDRESSDefence Headquartersc/o Nossob and Boeing StErasmuskloofPRETORIAPOSTAL ADDRESSSA SOLDIERPrivate Bag X158PRETORIA, 000118TELEPHONETel: 012 355 6341 Fax: 012 355 6399email: sasoldier@mil.zawebsite: www.mil.za/magazines/sasoldier2CONTRIBUTIONS:Although all possible care is takenwith articles, the editorial staffcannot take any responsibility forlost articles and photographs.Reproduction & Printing:Formeset Printers Johannesburg(Pty) Ltd,44-66 Wriggle Road,Heriotdale, Ext 13, 2094Tel: +27 11 626 1330/2/3Fax: +27 11 626 1331EDITORIAL BOARDCol P. Phiri(Acting Chairperson)Col H. SchobesbergerCapt (SAN) R.W. HiggsLt Col D. KhumaloEDITORIAL STAFFEditor:Ms Nelda PienaarEditorial Staff:Text Editor:Ms Nomonde VuthelaF Sgt David NomtshongwanaPO Dennis NdabaMr Eugené MullerLt Col T.L. MokwenaMs N. PienaarMs J. RenderMaj T.W. CheelaMaj J. du ToitTranslationConsultant:Directorate LanguageServicesPhoto Processing: 5 ASU Photo SectionDistribution:Maj P. LengoasaMr W. van der WesthuizenMr A. DzivhaniF Sgt D. NomtshongwanaPO D. Ndaba (Secretary)Mr Jim TshabalalaTel: 012 355 6341Layout & Design: Mr Werner v/d WesthuizenS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

16SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views and opinionsexpressed by the authors of articles are those of the authors and do not necessarilyrepresent those of the Department of Defence (DOD). Acceptance and publication ofadvertorial and advertising matter in SA SOLDIER does not constitute DOD endorsementor warranty in respect of goods or services therein described. The DOD doesnot assume any liability in respect of any claims made in advertisements.COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be reproduced without thewritten consent of the Editor.3FRONT COVER: Our Minister, Mr Mosiuoa Lekota, congratulates our firstfemale fighter pilot, Capt Catherine Labuschagne, at the Africa Aerospaceand Defence 2004 Expo held at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria.Please read more about this special event on page 16.(Photo: WO2 Christo Crous)For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa,visit our website at: www.mil.za/magazines/sasoldierNOVEMBE R 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

messageFrom theEditor's desk4The internationally acclaimed Africa Aerospace andDefence (AAD) 2004 exhibition was held atWaterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria from 21 to 25September 2004. The AAD has established itself asAfrica's indisputable and top aerospace and defenceexposition, and indeed is one of the biggest and bestin the Southern Hemisphere. Please read more aboutthis spectacular event on pages 16 and 17.Eighty-seven years after the tragedy of the SS MENDI, inhonour of the brave men who paid the ultimate sacrifice in thetragedy, the SA Navy has commemorated the event. The SASMENDI was gearing up for her maiden voyage home. Afterpassing tough sea trials the ship's company, under the commandof Capt (SAN) Kevin Packer, were faced with the challengeof sailing the ship safely to beautiful, sunny SouthAfrica. Cdr Jaco Theunissen, Base Public Relations Officer atNaval Base Simon's Town, PO Eddie Kgomo from DefenceTelevision, and our own journalist, PO Dennis Ndaba, werevery fortunate to be assigned the task of capturing the preciousmoments of SAS MENDI en route home. Read moreabout our journalist's adventure aboard SAS MENDI onpages 18 to 20.Almost half a century ago 20 000 women marched to theUnion Buildings and planted the seeds of democracy. It wastherefore fitting that after 10 years of freedom South Africanwomen returned to that very place to complete the circle. 48years ago women marched against injustice, and on 31August 2004 a new generation of women marched to the samespot in celebration of a new South Africa.Dozens of women filtered onto the grounds of the UnionBuildings after marching from the Pretoria Art Museum inArcadia. For many women this was the second time that theymarched: they had marched in 1956 and, although their kneeswere no longer as strong, this was to them an anniversary notto be missed.It was marvellous to see how so many women could convergeon a chosen point at such short notice. The energy as thewomen marched was fantastic, it was really all about the spiritand the prevailing feeling of victory. Read more about thecourageous spirit of our women on page 24 to 27.Prevention is still the key message in the fight against HIVand AIDS. Project Phidisa is proactively addressing a criticalproblem for the benefit of this country and the region.Project Phidisa entails ground breaking clinical research on theS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4use of ARVs by SANDF HIV positive members and theirdependants. This is the first time in this country's history thatresearchers who are examining an issue understand the participantscompletely. It is already evident that the results ofthis research will influence policy decisions on the use ofARVs in the South African context.The core message for SANDF personnel affected by HIV andAIDS is that the DOD is proactively involved in researchingthe best possible treatment regimes for HIV positive membersand their dependants. Please read more about this criticaltopic on pages 32 and 33.Congratulations to our South African Team winning the 2004Exercise AIRBORNE AFRICA competition. Well done! Thiscompetition was co-ordinated with the Africa Aerospace andDefence 2004 exhibition regarding timings and resources, andwas attended by sixteen different countries from Africa, Asiaand Europe. Read more about this biannual exercise held at44 Parachute Regiment in Bloemfontein on page 42.The SANDF hosted the 7th CISM ESALO (Eastern SouthernAfrica Liaison Office) Soccer Championships in Pretoria.Angola, Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland andBotswana were invited to take part in this prestigious tournament.For the first time ever women's soccer was also recognisedin this tournament. The South African Women's Teamplayed in the finals against their neighbours, Swaziland, andbeat the latter 4-0 on penalties. The Zimbabwe Men's Teamwas crowned this year's ESALO Champions when it beatLesotho 2-1. Read more about this sport highlight on page 45.The SANDF has made an enormous contribution to thedevelopment of rugby in Burundi. In the process former enemieshave been reconciled and unified in the same team witha common goal and objective. Rugby has also played a majorrole in improving the acceptability of the South African contingentby the local community.One of our soldiers, Lt Ngcelwane, who is a member of theSAMHS currently deployed in Burundi, and detached to theSpecial Forces deployed there, was recently appointed asrugby coach to the National Rugby Federation in Burundi.This is seen as a great honour for South Africa and we areglad to have a man of such stature among us.Congratulations! Please read more about how rugby hasgrown in Burundi on page 46.Nelda PienaarEditor

Page 5Old Mutual Ad(New Material)

6feedbackIt takes the best to be the bestMan alters his life by altering his attitudes.You can control the way youimpress other people. Your appearanceto others, your outward appearance,is more like a movie screen thana painting.The screen reflects what goes oninside the projector. Your thoughtsand attitudes are the roll of film. Yourmind is the projector, which throwsout strong, good, impressive pictures.Your actions are important becausepeople know you by your actions.They form impressions of you by youracts. People are like gifts: they comeall wrapped up. Their thoughts, characters,abilities and potentials are allwrapped up inside them. Your actionsA young writer in needWith great admiration and deeprespect I am writing this letter tohumbly request the donation of an oldcomputer and multifunctional printerall in one - printer, scanner and copier.To have a computer and multifunctionalprinter will be another wayof empowering me, and my underprivilegedand disadvantaged communitywill also benefit from such adonation. In one way or another I willbe answering the people's call forhelp, as we are in the remotest ruralarea. I want to stress how importantsuch a donation will be to me. It willenable me to be of great help to therest of the community and this indeedwill be the mirror which will reflectthe best of our Defence Force and willmaintain social cohesion, help tostrengthen trust, bonds of friendshipand loyalty. This will be another wayof lending a helping hand. As we celebratea decade of Defence in a democracy,it will be another way of helpingto heal the wounds of the past in manyhearts.I always tell the civilian communityabout the Defence Force and I wantthem to have confidence and a clearunderstanding and a positive attitudeWinning letterare the ways you communicate yourthoughts to others.The purpose of change is not tobecome another person, but simply toemphasise all the good and wonderfulin you. If you act discouraged, you actinferior, you feel inferior, you act lazy,you feel lazy. Good thoughts and goodactions produce good feelings. Badthoughts and bad actions produce badfeelings.Life is a struggle to satisfy one'sego. Sow your thoughts, your emotions,reap your habits, sow habits,reap your characters, sow your character,and reap your destiny. It takes thebest to be the best! - A.M. Rakoma,Tzaneen.towards our Defence Force. The civiliancommunity has always associatedthe Defence Force with violence. Iwant people to change their attitudestowards the SANDF and see it as anessential service for the people by thepeople.I humbly request that my requestbe forwarded to the SANDF leadership,should they wish to make anyfurther contribution - ArnausMaphalle Rakoma, Moetladimo.* If anyone can assist Rfn ArnausMaphalle Rakoma, please do so. His contactdetails are as follows: Cell No: 083 3527770 or 073 421 9182 or write to him at:PO Box 257, Moetladimo, 0891 - Ed.Empowerment ofPSAPI really want to give praise to theDirectorate Inspectorate General (IG)DOD for giving me the opportunity toattend the core competency modulecourse. It was a great course with lotsof challenges. I learned a lot from themodules, eg the necessity of teamworkin our working environment,how to cope with different changeshappening within the DOD and managingfor results. What I liked mostabout the module entitled "How torespond to change" was the phrase,"The only constant these days ischange", meaning we must be able toface the changes that are really happeningwithin the DOD and be willingto move away from our comfortzones. Change is an ongoing process.Actually the most interesting topicwas about "Time management andhow to priorities your work". TheDOD has employed us in order toreach its objectives, viz to serve ourorganisation with pride and loyaltyand be willing to work in order toachieve its objectives. It will be a greathonour if some of the PSAP membersare given the opportunity to attendthis course. It will mean a lot to them,especially in our working environment.Praise is due to the Directoratefor equipping its members with qualityknowledge enhancing managerialcourses. This shows that even theunderprivileged PSAP get the opportunityto acquire more knowledge formanagerial positions. Lastly, the relationshipbetween the PSAP and DAPis really tremendous within ourDirectorate as is shown by a greatspirit of teamwork - Mr P.D. Mogale,Pretoria.R200-00 prize for the best letterSA SOLDIER welcomes letters to the Editor. Short letters are more likely to be published,and all letters may be edited for reasons of style, accuracy or space limitations.Letters should preferably be typewritten and double-spaced. All lettersmust include the writer's full name, address and home telephone number. The volumeof letters we receive makes individual acknowledgement impossible. Pleasesend your letters to: The Editor, SA SOLDIER Letters, Private Bag X158, Pretoria,0001. Letters may also be faxed to (012) 355-6399 or sent via email to sasoldier@mil.za.We would like to hear your comments or ideas, particularly aboutmatters affecting members of the Department of Defence. Regrettably, anonymousletters cannot be answered officially or published - Editor.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Strike a womanIn the name of freedom and the tenthanniversary of our democracy I wouldlike to salute our women in uniformfor their sacrifices and contribution toour new Army (SANDF). Furthermorewe must acknowledge that our Armyand country are filled with womenwho are and will continue to berespected for their noble contributionstowards the ten years of democracy,peace in Africa in general, as well as inBurundi and the DRC. Bravo, bravo toour sisters, mothers - those were thedays when women belonged in thekitchen. Women have escaped the confinesof the home and are now takingpart in peace and security for ourdemocracy.We men must know that genderequality is not about disempoweringourselves, but rather the empowermentof women. Since 1994 our democraticGovernment has prioritised theempowerment of women. Womenwere at the heart of the struggle of ourcountry. In this respect let us take abrief look at our history. In 1956 LillianNgoyi, Helen Joseph, Sophie Williamsand many others led 20 000 women tothe Union Buildings to show theapartheid rulers the power of softhearts. In conclusion, I have shown akeen interest in seeing peace take rootin the country. Wathinta abafaziwathinta imbokodo (If you strike awoman you strike a rock) - Rfn T.L.Molekudi, Potchefstroom.Casual DayI take this opportunity to thank youfor organising, on behalf of ChiefDirectorate Equal Opportunities(DOD) and Curamus, the most enjoyableCasual Day on 3 September 2004.I thank you for recognising ourKZN MR CFD Forum at the DOD byEqual Opportunities. It is indeed aprivilege for all of us in KZN. Pleaseextend our appreciation to ColDippenaar, WO2 Bezuidenhout andMrs Kunene who have kept our forumrunning smoothly and really caringfor those with disabilities. ColDippenaar, we appreciate everythingyou do for us. Thank you, EqualOpportunities, for hosting such agreat success on Casual Day. To beable to participate in events suitablefor our disabilities, with no boringmoments, and to be exhausted after aday of absolute fun will remain in ourmemories for a long time. A specialIn memory of a true soldierI lost a true soldier who was dedicatedand committed. The late Sgt A.H.(Abé) le Roux, Comm NCO RSABattalion Burundi, was invaluable tothe RSA Battalion. He acted as theCommunication Officer and was anexpert in this field. He wrote numerousstories for SA SOLDIER duringour period of deployment. The last ofhis stories may be found in theNovember 2004 issue of SA SOLDIERmagazine. He was obviously veryclose to me. He also wrote numerousletters to the family members of thedeployed members, and there were anumber of letters in the process offinalisation to the families of thedeployed members.The late Sgt Le Roux established alibrary in the communication tent atthe Palace Base. He was supposed tofinalise the recreational sports itemscheduled for the RSA Battalion'ssports day on 29 September 2004. Hewas also in the process of arrangingthe formalities for the RSA BnCommander's communication periodoutside the Palace Base at a venue thatwas to be determined. He was in theprocess of arranging a communicationactivity for the RSA Battalion driversand chefs as part of the RSA Battalion'srecognition of the base members fortheir contribution. He was also tofinalise the monthly report forSeptember 2004.By losing him I virtually lost a partof my brain. I will miss him dearly as asoldier and as a friend. He motivatedme tremendously and kept me on mytoes. I will remember him as a disciplinedand highly professional soldier.I had him on positive office orders on13 September 2004 on which occasion Iinformed him of his qualities and hisinvaluable contribution.I remember him as being extremelyeager to deploy externally. As Icomment on his order sheets "I willthanks to Maj Gen P.R.F. Sedibe, MrKobus Swart and their staff. It isindeed comforting to know that thereare many that care for those with disabilitieswithin our community - RfnG.R. Burger, Bluff.never regret the day I contracted todeploy him externally. He was ecstaticabout the opportunity. He kept hispromise that he would work hardwhen he linked up with me inBloemfontein (De Brug).He established very good relationswith the United Nations' civilianmembers. They were looking for himat the time when he did not turn up atthe Officers Bar on the night of hisdeath. The RSA Battalion had a braaion the night of 13 September 2004when we hosted the ONUB HQ ForceSergeant Major, and he was full ofjokes. He mentioned the day he triedto undergo a facelift. Everybody presentlaughed.I have to carry on where he left off.As the RSA Battalion Commander Ihave to continue with what I amdoing, my vision being: "A well disciplinedand competent externaldeployed battalion", because I knowhe embraced this vision wholeheartedly.I never doubted his ability and heproved his worth. Long will I rememberthis fallen hero and I stand toattention and salute him. The RSABattalion's condolences go to the familyand friends of the late Sgt Abé leRoux.He went to Kabezi (operationalarea of responsibility) of the RSABattalion as part of the battalion's visitscheduled for deployed members,accompanied by the RSA Battalion2IC, Maj W.L. Madikoto, on the day ofhis death (14 September 2004) - Lt ColP. Davids, Officer Commanding 15SAI Bn.* SA SOLDIER also lost a true andvaluable friend and contributor. We willmiss him dearly. May he rest in peace.Our sincere condolences go to the family,friends and colleagues of the late Sgt Abéle Roux - Ed.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R7

Saluting ColetDo you know, when we get so used tobad service we are truly amazed whenwe get good service? Well I had thisexperience. I dropped in at the SANDFCollege of Educational Technology(Colet) while on leave (unshaven andin jeans) to ask about training tobecome an assessor.The receptionist, with the help of avery gracious Leading Seaman,phoned every person in theImplementation Centre to try to findsomeone to speak to me. However,everyone was out doing training,which is a good sign! The LeadingSeaman then literally walked thebuilding until he found someone tosee me.After I was asked to sit for a fewminutes - during which time everyperson who walked through the foyer(including the cleaners) either greetedme or asked if I had been helped - LtCol Conradie, from another department,invited me to her office to hearwhat I needed. She had nothing to dowith training assessors. Nevertheless,she took the time to explain how Coletworks, what courses were available,whom I can speak to, and so on.She also told me of the possibilityof obtaining recognition for priorlearning (RPL). What a cool opportunity!By the time I left her office I hadthe application forms and a very positivefeeling about being a learner atColet. I returned the application formsthe very next day (their enthusiasm forlearning inspired me to perform), andwas provided with a manual for twoof the courses I was interested in, plusa CD (which unfortunately had to bereturned).Lt Col Conradie and her colleague,Warrant Officer Botha, were highlyprofessional. They kept asking me togive them feedback on my experienceof the RPL programme, and they keptinviting me to contact them if I evergot stuck or needed answers to questions.Clearly, these people haveheard about Batho Pele - and not onlythe senior staff, but even the cleaners,the receptionist and the LeadingSeaman who happened to walk intothe foyer while I was there.Brig Gen Bless - congratulations toyou and your staff. Keep up the excellentservice! - Lt Col Adrian van Breda,Military Psychological Institute.8Are women and children really free?Some people may ask themselves whyI am saying this, but it is a valid question.Women are no longer free towalk alone, as men are always there toattack them (their prey).If you watch television and listento the radio, you will understand whatI am talking about. It is not even safe togo to town and leave your daughter inthe care of your husband, as she maybe taking her mother's place. I do notknow what is going on with our husbands.Maybe, as they read this letter,they will be able to give us answers,because we have nowhere to run.Soldiers are raping, policemen areThe sky is the limitWhen I volunteered to deploy internationallyto the DRC and Burundi a fewyears ago I was speechless and couldnot believe my ears or recognise mySANDF. My essay was about the possibilitiesof life on the planet and I amvery excited about that, and it is mymilitary and social wish for the successof the previous and current peacemissions. Although I came from apainful apartheid and disadvantagedmilitary and social background, anilliterate and poor soldier, I stronglybelieve that no matter what the odds,staying positive, focused, having faithand believing in oneself, and prayerS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4doing the same - where else can weask for protection? If they do not rape,they kill the whole family. I still thinkthat they are being selfish and irresponsibleand they are running awayfrom the truth. Please do not kill us.Life is a gift from God and you do nothave the right to take it away. I wouldlike to give advice to those who arethinking of doing this evil thing. If youfeel that you are tired of living, pleasedo not make the mistake of taking thelives of people who cannot defendthemselves. They still have a futureahead. God knows when their liveswill end, and not you. Why do youfirst, is all that matters. I believe thatthe road to success is not straight;there is a curve called failure and disadvantagesand a loop called confusionand ignorance, and speed humpscalled Brothers and Sisters!I never imagined that a poor andmarginalised hero from an apartheidand disadvantaged backgroundwould at the end of the day make it. Soit is not surprising that I never stopmyself from taking chances andaccepting challenges that come myway. But I also want to thank my family,friends and relatives, church andmilitary for the support to unearth thethink you have the right to take awaythe lives of your wife and children?Some people think that they do notwant their family to suffer when theyare gone. Do the right thing and giveyour children an education so thatthey will not suffer. Stop this selfishbehaviour. It is not funny to seewomen and children get killed everyday by the so-called Mr Soldiers. Stopcorrupting the name of our DefenceForce. We are soldiers for peace, notfor abusing. I would like to say, whenyou deploy, do your job, and do notabuse your power - Cpl L.B. Funyufunyu,AFB Makhado.hidden military talent in me revealedin my deployment periods. If I did notbelieve and trust in them I would nothave made it at all; and I still cannotbelieve that I am part of this militaryhistoric adventure which comes oncein a lifetime.My military and social successmeans living my dreams, and moneyis just a bonus for me as a dedicatedsoldier! Finally, I love my God, mySANDF and our country so much thatI can die for them, and I shall do anythingthat needs to be done to the bestof my ability! - Sgt (Pastor) T.D. Makiti,Medical Task Group in Burundi.

Amateur RadioOur friend and Club member, Hermann"Boet" Dormehl ZS6SN, wasrecently in Europe to be part of the60th (and last) commemoration of DDay or Operation Overlord when theAllied Forces successfully landed onthe French coast on 6 June 1944.Hermann was born in New Redruthin 1927 in the days before itbecame the City of Alberton. Wouldyou believe that he probably wasSouth Africa's youngest soldier at theage of 13 years and 10 months. He liedabout his age as 17. His father had himtraced when he disappeared fromhome, but when the police returnedhim he relented and gave his permissionfor him to join the Special ServicesBattalion (SSB). His father was CaptDormehl of the Cape Mounted Riflesin World War I. In 1943 Hermann wasin the front lines during the invasionof Italy from North Africa with the 6thSouth African Armoured Division andexperienced the intense battle atMonte Cassino. In 1944 he also witnessedMt Vesuvius blow its top andthe messy downpour of ash mixedwith rain afterwards. On both warfronts he was under the command ofCol Joe Asher and was repeatedlypraised as an excellent signaller whoalways kept his equipment and batteriesin good order. Unfortunately thiswas or could not always be the caseSN in France. The radio antenna is groaning under all the flags.with everyone, and many Allied liveswere unnecessary lost due to bad communications.He does not talk muchabout his activities afterwards, but hasreceived various decorations fromvarious nations (also very recently) forservices rendered till the end of thewar. When the war ended he was 18and had to become a schoolboy again.He later qualified as a motor anddiesel mechanic, but shortly afterwardswent into business with hisbrother, Jack, and, as if that was notenough, took part in local politics inthe 1970s. This year he has been married50 years to his wife, Bettie, andthey have been residents of Waverleyin Pretoria for the last 40 years.His amateur radio career began in1947 and he is still in love with theuncomplicated radios that he used as ayoung man. He often makes appealson ZS6PTA Swapshop for an Atlas215X that he carried with him on anostalgic hike through Italy in 1988.Call signs he has had in the past wereZS5SK, ZS4SK and ZS3SK.Thank you September November -for your contribution to the world -and SA community - as well as theAmateur community. (Article andphoto courtesy WATTS, the officialmonthly newsletter of the PretoriaAmateur Radio Club)Success through goal settingSerious goal-setters are like missileswith targets because they have a specificdestination, viz to reach theirpotential. Now the question is: Howdoes a goal have the power to draw aperson in its direction? You becomewhat you think about. Whenever youmake a serious commitment to reach agoal, it takes centre stage in yourmind. A burning desire to be and todo is the starting point from which ourdreams must take off. Desiring successwith a state of mind that becomesan obsession, then planning definiteways and means of achieving one'sgoals will bring them into being. Goalsetting and planning the outcome is anecessary ingredient for success. It isimportant to map out a strategy so youknow precisely where you want to goand realise that there are mechanismsthat can help you get there. Once aperson is motivated to reach a goal, hewill naturally go in that direction, andwhen challenges arise he will findways to overcome them. Even actionhas a logical reaction. It is a naturallaw. By choosing an action you concurrentlychoose the outcome and getwhat you intend. Serious goal settersknow that there is immense power insetting and writing down goals.Writing helps to clarify and crystalliseyour ideas. Use positive wordingwhen you set your goal. Focus on thegoal you desire. Appreciate what eachgoal means to you, and why you wantto reach it. When you have a powerfulreason for achieving a goal, you willbe motivated to persist until you haveachieved it. Success is not an accident;we can all unleash the magical powerwithin us. We all love big ideas. If anorganisation lacks enthusiasm, if thepeople are bored, it is time for a bigidea. The moment you set a new goalyou create a gap between where youare and where you really want to be.The urge to close the gap generatestension, energy, enthusiasm, purposeand drive. Know that a man is influencedby his deeds, and his heart andall his thoughts continually pursue thedeeds in which he is engaged. Dreamscan often become challenging, butchallenges are what we live for - MrP.D. Modimoeng, 2 SAI Bn, Zeerust.9NOVEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

clippingsRow and growThe certificate ceremony for the membersof the 9th Executive NationalSecurity Programme (ENSP) was heldat the SA Army College in Pretoria on10 June 2004. Officiating on this occasionon behalf of the Chief of theSANDF, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda, wasthe Chief of Joint Training, Maj GenAaron Ntshinga.The ENSP has become a keyinstrument in the formulation of ourpolicies and strategies to addressnational security and is undoubtedlythe premier programme in the DOD,with special focus on national andregional security.It is also the only programme concentratingon national security inSouth Africa.The programmes are designed toempower members with a betterunderstanding of national security indomestic, regional and even internationalarenas.In his address Maj Gen Ntshingaalluded to the fact that the membershad been on the programme at a mostinteresting time in the history of themodern world."While tonight I have the joy andprivilege of celebratingwith you the conclusionof a successfulprogramme, Ihave the responsibilityto point out theimplications of thecompletion of yourprogramme to yourexpected role in thefield of national security.National securityis no longerviewed as a predominantlymilitary andpolice problem, butas an all-encompassingcondition. Itincorporates political,economic, social andenvironmental matters;central to whichis the protection ofMaj Gen Aaron Ntshinga, the Chief of Joint Training,handing over a certificate to the best student on thecourse, Col Michael Muolo from the USA.(Photo: PO Eddie Kgomo)the fundamental rights of all our citizens.At the national level, this includesthe consolidation of democracy, theachievement of social justice, theattainment of economic developmentand the guaranteeing of a safe environment,"Maj Gen Ntshinga continued."It is my belief that the 9th ENSPhas sufficiently equipped you to beable to participate in the planning andexecution of policy and strategy at ahigh level," he concluded.(Article by PO Dennis Ndaba)United States honoured our GeneralBy Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwana10Brig Gen R.T. Marutle was presentedwith a medal by the visiting Com-manderof the US Air Force, Gen R.H.Foglesong, at Defence Headquarters inPretoria on 11 August 2004. Brig GenMarutle spent three years in a diplomaticpost in Washington where hewas accredited to the USA and Canadaby the SANDF to liaise with the UnitedNations. Gen Foglesong said it was aspecial occasion for him to be in SouthAfrica and to present the medal to BrigGen Marutle. "It was a great honour forme to serve my country and this hasbeen a best partnership between SouthAfrica and USA," said Brig GenMarutle, currently the Director ArmyStrategic Direction.Gen R.H. Foglesong, Commander of the US Air Force, presented Brig GenR.T. Marutle, our Director Army Strategic Direction, with a medal.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Adding to celebrating ten years ofour democracyThe Chief of Corporate Staff, Lt GenTemba Matanzima, officially openedthe 10th Executive National SecurityProgramme (ENSP) held at the SANational Defence College in ThabaTshwane in Pretoria on 12 July 2004.This was the tenth ENSP to be presentedand as such was a fitting tribute toadd to the celebrations of ten years offreedom and democracy in SouthAfrica.Lt Gen Matanzima emphasisedthat it was vital for other governmentdepartments and private organisationsto take note of the importanceaccorded the ENSP by the SANDF, torealise their obligation to becomeinvolved and support these programmesby ensuring that membersfrom their departments and organisationsattend as programme members.Prior to 2000 the SA DefenceCollege presented the Joint StaffCourse. The Joint Staff Course wasaimed primarily at educating seniorSANDF officers at the military strategiclevel. Changes within our countryafter 1994 necessitated the need to prepareour officers at the national strategiclevel and to expose them to othergovernment departments, foreigndefence perspectives and the civiliansector; hence the introduction of theENSP."This programme presents anopportunity of a lifetime. During thenext nineteen weeks you will have theopportunity to develop yourselves atthe highest level the SANDF has toBursaries awarded to two learnersTwo girls from Voortrekker HighSchool in Pretoria were each handed acheque of R500,00 by the Chief of theSANDF, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda, at theDefence Headquarters in Pretoria on 27September 2004. Sisipho Bolowana(16), a Grade 11 learner, and SiveMatowani (19), a Grade 12 learner,were this year's lucky learners to benefitfrom the Defence Bursaries TrustFund. "About five years ago we decidedto donate R1 000,00 annually forbursaries to the members of the DODand their families. Children who arestill at high school receive R500,00,while those who are in a tertiary institutionreceive R1 000,00," said Mr JohanFourie, Secretary of the Trust Fund.(Article by Lebohang Letaoana)Fltr: Col Mariëtte Hartley (Directing Staff), Lt Col Stefan Blomqvist (Sweden),Col Eduardo Barbosa (Brazil), Lt Gen Temba Matanzima (Chief of CorporateStaff), Maj Gen Paul Ramahlo (Chief Army Force Prep), Col Mhran Abdel(Egypt) and Capt (FN) Fabre Fabre. (Photo: F Sgt David Nomtshongwana)offer. At the same time you can prepareyourselves for making a greatercontribution and playing a moreimportant role in the successful handlingof national security matters," LtGen Matanzima said.(Article by PO Dennis Ndaba)Fltr: Tembile Bolowana, Sisipho Bolowana, Fundiswa Matowani, GenSiphiwe Nyanda, the Chief of the SANDF, Sive Matowani and Mr JohanFourie, Secretary of the Defence Bursaries Trust Fund.(Photo: Cpl Elias Mahuma)11N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

12clippingsMaking history on the RooivalkTwo pilots from 16 Squadron attendeda Rooivalk Factory WeaponsConversion Course presented byDenel test pilot, Tim Mace. Duringthis course Lt Col M.J. Bates and MajT.C.E. Graham from 16 Squadronbecame the first two squadron helicopterpilots to be trained to operateweapons on the Rooivalk. This wasnecessary since 16 Squadron startedits weapons training for the squadronPaying homagePresident Mbeki visits our chopper squadronBy Lt Col Frans Schoombee,SO1 Internal Comm, SAAFPhoto: Courtesy Hoedspruit AFB19 Squadron, the chopper squadron atHoedspruit AFB, is the ultimate gatewayto any place in the Mpumalangaand Limpopo regions. If one is convincedthat a 4x4 will never be able toget there, you should take note that 19Squadron will go there. There is justno place too difficult for these men,women and machines. It is this abilityof one of the most valuable and professionalchopper squadrons in theworld, that draws the interest andattention of many people, even ourmost important Government anddefence figures.Hoedspruit AFB was very fortunatein 2004 to have had the opportunityto meet our President, Mr ThaboMbeki, and all his personal staff inperson - "What a privilege". It is notoften that someone like the Presidentof South Africa lands on yourdoorstep, where you can have a closerlook at the man who is ruling ourcountry. Although we could gatherthat his programme was very busy heS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4pilots in the first two weeks of October2004.The course started with two weeksof ground school on the Desk TopTraining System, followed by simulatedsorties during which training onswitchology and weapons profiles wasconducted. The actual firing of the 20mm cannon and 70 mm rockets tookplace from 27 to 30 July 2004 at DeBrug near Bloemfontein. This was theThe annual Memorial Service washeld at Fort Klapperkop in Pretoria on12 September 2004. The memorial serviceis held to commemorate all SouthAfricans who gave up their lives forour country, and also to remember allthose who became disabled as a resultof such service. Wreaths were laid andcrosses were placed during the ceremony,and Veterans' organisationsdisplayed their colourful banners.Provision was also made for participationby members of the public whohad lost a relative or friend duringthese armed conflicts. They could payhomage to their dear ones by laying awreath at the service. A former chaplainof the Defence Force, Cpln Murraystill made the time to greet the entirewelcoming party and even stood for aphoto with the Officer Commandingof Hoedspruit AFB, Brig Gen Pierre duPlessis, and the flying crew of 19Squadron. On his first visit on 18 May2004 President Thabo Mbeki landed atHoedspruit AFB on his way to GiyaniSikunyani Sports Ground, where helaunched the Expanded Public WorksProgramme. On 4 June the privilegewas repeated when the President visitedagain. This time 19 Squadron flewfirst time that Maj Graham had theopportunity to fire rockets and withhis first shot he hit the target, a tank,from 2,5 km away. This weaponscourse is seen as a big milestone notonly for 16 Squadron and BloemspruitAFB, but also for the SA Air Force. Thesquadron is working to have all pilotsweapons qualified by the end ofNovember 2004.(Article courtesy 16 Squadron)Phatudi, officiated at this year's event.The SA Council of Military Veterans'Organisations (CMVO) organised theservice, assisted by the PretoriaMemorial Services Council. They weresupported by the SA National DefenceForce, which provided the ceremonialsentries, the military band and attendedto the necessary logistic support.him to Mozambique where he landedat Vilanculos to attend the inaugurationof the new Sasol gas plant venture.During the visit of the Chief ofthe SANDF, the Squadron was alsoinvolved with a small capabilitydemonstration that was professionallyconducted.Hoedspruit AFB and 19 Squadronwere very privileged to have had theopportunity to contribute to the successfulrealisation of the objectives andinitiatives of Government.Fltr: President Thabo Mbeki, Brig Gen Pierre du Plessis, OC Hoedspruit AFB,and Capt Johan Fouché, Oryx Commander.

Our Deputy Minister visits Navy OfficeBy Nomonde VuthelaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe Deputy Minister of Defence, MrMululeki George, visited Navy Officein Pretoria on 3 August 2004 as part ofhis orientation in the defence environment.Accompanied by the MinisterialLegal Advisor, Ms Lizzie Kubushi,and his Personal Assistant, Ms NomsaHani, the Deputy Minister and histeam were received by the Chief of theSA Navy, V Adm Johan Retief.The visit to Navy Office was yetanother of the many visits Mr Georgemakes to all the Services andDivisions.At Navy Office he wanted to bebriefed by higher management onissues pertaining to transformation,representivity and the progress ofrecruitment.He was also briefed on the challengesthat the Service was up against.Mr Mululeki George, the Deputy Minister of Defence, is welcomed at NavyOffice.Part of his job and mandate as DeputyMinister of Defence is to speed up theprocess of transformation in theSANDF.Two harbour patrol boats donated toMozambiqueThe Chief of the SANDF, Gen SiphiweNyanda, handed over two harbourpatrol boats (HPBs) to a Mozambicandelegation in Simon's Town on 3September 2004.Witnessing this symbolic handingover ceremony was the Consul of theRepublic of Mozambique, Mrs B.Mate, the French Ambassador, MrJean Felix Peganon, the Consul of theRepublic of France, Mr B. Clerc, theChief of the SA Navy, V Adm JohanRetief, the Chief of the French NavalForces in the Indian Ocean, AdmXavier Rolin, and a representative ofthe Republic of Mozambique, CaptAntonio Manuel.South Africa, as a major role-playerwithin the SADC region, has identifiedthe need to boost Mozambiquewith a maritime capability so that itcan effectively patrol its waters and inso doing curb the ongoing poaching ofmarine resources, which not onlyaffects South Africa, but the wholeSouthern African region.Two HPBs from the SA Navy wereidentified as surplus requirement andcould thus be donated to theMozambican Navy. The FrenchGovernment generously refurbishedthe two boats with new navigationalequipment and propulsion systems.The French ship, FNS LA MARNE,assisted with the transportation of thetwo HPBs to Mozambique on 7September.When he signed a formal agreementat the Admiralty House inSimon's Town Gen Nyanda said: "Theimportance of the maritime area offMozambique is well known to bothFrance and South Africa, therefore thisis an excellent opportunity for the twomajor maritime powers in the area toassist Mozambique in establishing itsfledgling Navy. The two boats areexcellent for patrolling harbourapproaches, training and humanitarianassistance to the people ofMozambique. The SA Navy also providedtraining to the Mozambicancrews who are going to man the boats.In 2002 South Africa donated twoHPBs to Namibia as part of its regionalassistance to the SADC countries".Southern regional countries areeconomically dependent upon worldcommerce and it is also necessary forthem to have free use of the gatewaybetween the South Atlantic and SouthIndian Oceans. South Africa andMozambique are members of theInter-State Defence and SecurityCommittee with its subcommittee, theStanding Maritime Committee onDefence. (Issued by the MinisterialDirectorate of Communications, CapeTown)N OVEM B ER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R13

clippingsRed candles lined the foyerThe DOD members at the PoyntonsBuilding in Pretoria were greeted on 5August 2004 with big smiles at themain entrance. These were not smilesto wish members a good day asexpected, it was the HIV/AIDS' peergroup of the Poyntons Building whowent the extra mile to welcome membersfrom as early as 06:30. Red candleslined the foyer, complemented bysoft music, as members were greetedand reminded about the HIV/AIDSprogramme that was to take placelater that day.At 09:00 the hall started to fill upfor the event. People kept on enteringthe already crowded hall. Some had tostand for the entire five hours, whileothers took turns to sit. The groupkept Maj Moledi from GautengCommand busy with all their concernedquestions about the pandemic.Lt Dlamini, the dietitian fromWonderboom Military Base, had amost interesting talk on "eating thecorrect food" for people living withHIV and in general.The blood transfusion team fromPretoria presented their topic on theimportance of donating blood, asblood banks are running dry.Arrangements will be made for membersworking in the Poyntons Buildingto donate blood at a later stage, as nofewer than fifty people must be availablefor the blood transfusion team toput their equipment to work.Pte Andries Nhlengethwa fromDOD 101 ASU, who is living with thevirus and has been living with it fortwelve years, gave an active motivationaltalk. All the women wanted tobe hugged or picked up when hedecided to display his strength andmuscles by picking up a lady.The desire to know more about theepidemic and to get involved and helpmake a difference was evident thatmorning.Other activities for the year includeda working visit to the DOD hospiceand Kalafong hospice and WorldAIDS Day on 1 December. TheHIV/AIDS peer group of thePoyntons Building hopes to make adifference in fighting the pandemic inthe DOD and the community by gettinginvolved in awareness programmesfor its members. (Article byMaj F. Ricketts, JTRG CECE)Peacekeeping efforts of our Air Forcein BurundiBy Sgt J. van Schalkwyk, Dir CorpStaff Service, SAAF14The SA Air Force has been activelyinvolved in Burundi since 2001. Itstarted out as a VIP Protection servicewhich eventually evolved into a jointUnited Nations (UN) peace supportmission. To prove its willingness tosupport the UN in its mission the SAAir Force made two Oryx helicoptersavailable, which were serviced andprepared for active involvement inBurundi.These two helicopters were resprayedwhite to conform with specifiedUN markings. The South AfricanNational Flag was also spray-paintedon the two helicopters.Four crews were made availableby the SA Air Force. Each crew consistedof three members. These membersworked tirelessly and made theSA Air Force proud when they producedwell-serviced and transformedOryx helicopters. The crew membersinvolved were: Capt H. Holtzhauzen,Capt W. Zaayman, Capt T.M.Livingston, Lt S.S. King, Lt W.G. duTwo Oryx helicopters of our Air Force were resprayed in the white UNmarkings.Toit, Lt C. Frylinck, WO2 Engelbrecht,F Sgt J.A. Badenhorst, F Sgt S. Beukes,Sgt S.J. Ntlatleng, Cpl G.P. van Zyl,Cpl R.N. Combrinck and Cpl M.Jansen van Vuuren.The SA Air Force will continue toform part of a bigger UN peacekeepingforce in Burundi.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

More than pyramids and sphinxesBy Lt Ronald Maseko,Directorate Defence CorporateCommunicationThe Chief Defence Corporate Communication,Maj Gen Dan Mofokeng,went on an official staff visit to Egyptover the period 11 to 17 September2004. The military ties between SouthAfrica and Egypt can beattributed to the fact thatboth are African countriesthat pride themselves onstriving for efficient, welltrainedand informed militaries.The visit, which wasfocused on benchmarkingwith the Egyptian Departmentof Defence,sought to compare andanalyse methods used byboth countries to formulatea system or communicationstructure thatwill best promote goodcommunication withinthe department and alsoempower communicationfunctionaries in the processof achieving afavourable end product.No department can affordnot to communicate andthat communication has to be of alevel acceptable to the sender and theuser. When the two countries combineexperiences and lessons learnedin the communication environment,the departments stand to gain a lotfrom each other and this cannot butfail to ensure that the Department ofDefence will deliver a tried, tested andsuccessful communication service asis required by the Government.Service delivery is the winner whenvisits like this one are encouraged -thus the saying: "Two heads are betterthan one". Maj Gen Mofokeng saidafter the visit that Directorate CorporateCommunication was on a parwith other military forces.The Senior Officer in Charge of Print House No 1, explained to Maj Gen Dan Mofokeng,the Chief Defence Corporate Communication, and Gen Samir Abdel Wahab, DirectorPrint and Publication Department, how the printing house in Red House Mountain, Egypt,operates.Celebrating Arbor Week in BloemspruitBy Lt Nico van der Walt,Environmental Services OfficerBloemspruit AFBEvery year Bloemspruit AFB celebratesArbor Week in an effort to promoteenvironmental awarenessamong its members. This year's celebrationwas a special occasion with theopening of the Garden of Democracyto celebrate ten years of freedom on 3September 2004.An area was selected on the basewhere the Officer Commanding, ColR.C. Jonsson, along with the OfficersCommanding of 16 Squadron, 87Helicopter Flying School, 6 ASU and506 Squadron unveiled a monumentand planted ten trees in a circle tocommemorate the ten years of democracy.Tree adoption certificates werehanded out to these officers for custodianship.The trees were obtained from theDepartment of Water Affairs andForestry. Hiccupnut and WhiteSeringa do not grow in Bloemfontein,hence only trees indigenous to the FreeState, namely the Wild Olive, WhiteKaree, Common Karee and the RiverBush Willow were planted.Mr J. Joubert, Acting DirectorHuman Resources Department ofEducation, was invited to AFBBloemspruit Pre-Primary School,Bloempieland, to plant a tree to createenvironmental awareness among thechildren. The children were activelyinvolved in planting four trees in commemorationof Arbor Day and treeadoption certificates were handed outto the children.15N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

eventsAFRICA AEROSPACEAND DEFENCE 200416By Lebohang LetaoanaPhotos: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe internationally acclaimedAfrica Aerospace andDefence (AAD) exhibitionwas held at Waterkloof AirForce Base in Pretoria from 21to 25 September 2004. Thecentral focus of the AAD wasto support the objectives of NEPADand the African Union (AU).The first three days of the showwere aimed at trade visitors and thelast two days were open to the publicto enjoy a world-class flying display.The show had both indoor and outdoorexhibitions of civilian and militaryaerospace and defence equipment,services, technologies and majorsystems.The AAD is a partnership betweenthe Department of Defence (SA AirFltr: Lt Gen Roelf Beukes, Chief of the SAAF, Lt Gen Lehlohonolo Moloi (Ret), Mr MandisiMpahlwa, Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr Mosiuoa Lekota, the Minister of Defence,Col Wessel Janse van Rensburg, PSO of the Chief of the SAAF.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4Force), the Commercial Association ofSouth Africa (CAASA), Armscor andthe Aerospace Maritime and DefenceIndustries Association (AMD).Maj Gen "Lappies" Labuschagne,the Chairperson of the AADExhibition Executive Committee, saidthe vision of the SA Air Force for thisand future AAD exhibitions is to createan exhibition that will be a nationalasset, and the intention is to achievethis by showcasing our industrial andtechnological capabilities, by offeringsuperior products and services on ahighly competitive basis, encouragingtrade to mutual advantage, and byusing the exhibition to cement ourrelationship with many friendly countriesat the political, commercial anddefence levels.Speaking at the Opening of theAAD Trade Show, which was attendedby delegates from different countriescomprising ministers, chiefs ofOpening theskies ofPretoria.defence forces, secretaries of defenceand other military dignitaries, MinisterMandisi Mpahlwa from the Departmentof Trade and Industry saidthrough their strategy of developingindustry, growing our economy andattracting investment into the countrythe department (DTI) has recognisedthe importance of the Aerospaceindustry."This industry falls squarely intoour approach to economic developmentand we have seen that it haspotential for export growth, valueaddition and, through internationalsubcontracting arrangements, stimulatesindustrial innovation, competitivenessand growth further down thesupply chain," saidMinister Mpahlwa.A big draw-card,especially for the publicwas the daily commercialand military airshow. There were alsothe live demonstrationsof the equipment andsystems. Based on thesuccess of the AAD 2002Youth Programme, itwas decided to expandthe youth programmeparticipation during2004 by including variousorganisations promotingaerospace anddefence awarenessamong the previouslydisadvantaged youth.

The Agusta LUH109A is ready to take off, beneath it is a C5 Galaxy from theUSA New York National Guard.A Cheetah (aircraft) posed as a shark.Programmes such as the SiyandizaProgramme of the SA Air Force andthe National Youth DevelopmentTrust were also presented at the eventthrough interactive activities, competitionsand exhibitions. The primaryfocus of the programme was to exposethe youth to the career and studyopportunities in the defence and aviationindustries.In his speech the Minister ofTransport, Mr Jeff Radebe, said SouthAfrica will host a meeting of AfricanAviation and Transport MinistersFltr: Cpl Ishmael Juma, VIP Protection, Mr Bantu Holomisa, UDM Leader, MrTsepe Motumi, Chief Defence Policy and Planning, and Lt Gen TembaMatanzima, Chief of Corporate Staff.early next year to assess the aviationsituation in Africa, to identify theshortcomings in the implementationof old decisions, and to map the wayforward for increased investment inthe aviation sector, the development ofsustainable African expertise in thesector and the industry itself, and toencourage partnerships and co-operationbetween African countries at governmentand industrial levels. Our aimis to speed up the implementation ofthe Yamassoukro Declaration, whichis meant to open Africa's skies.Deals and purchases In August 2003 the SANDFconcluded a deal with AgustaWestland to purchase fourSuper Lynx 300 maritime helicoptersto operate from thenew A200 corvettes of the SANavy. The super Lynx willenter production at AgustaWestland's Yeovil plant in theUK next year, with first deliveriesto South Africa scheduledfor 2006. The SAPS, operator of thebiggest Eurocopter Fleet inSouthern Africa, signed a contractfor an additional AS 350B3 helicopter with EADSCompany. Denel Aerospace Systems willstart flight trials on the newUMBANI (lighting) modularguide bomb kit in 2005. Thedesigners concentrated on simplicityof design and operationto reduce cost in each stage ofthe life cycle of the kit. It is suitedfor use on almost any aircraft,from very old ones, rightup to the most modern fighters.The programme is currently inthe technology demonstrationphase for the SA Air Force inview of the possible integrationof a bomb kit on the Gripenfighter aircraft currently beingproduced for it.The AAD has established itself asAfrica's indisputable and top aerospaceand defence exposition, andindeed is one of the biggest and best inthe Southern Hemisphere.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R17

18eventsBuilt in Germany butProudly South AfricanBy PO Dennis NdabaPhotos: Cdr Jaco Theunissen andPO Eddie KgomoThere was a need for fightingships with high endurancemobility that could accommodatenaval personnel forsustained surface operationsand ships for effective monitoringand protection of theRSA's marine resources and environmentin our huge Exclusive EconomicZone. This gave rise to PROJECTSITRON, which aimed to restore thefrigate capabilities of the SA Navy thatwe lost in the 1980s, to provide us withcapable ships for our waters and forthe operational task of the Navy todayand in the future.The primary responsibility of theships is to protect and defend thesovereignty of South Africa, and thesecondary role will certainly includepeacetime operations as our nationS A S O L D I E R • N O V E M B E R 2 0 0 4does not have a coastguard. Insteadthe Navy carries the responsibilities ofpatrolling the coastline, peacetimesurveillance and humanitarian aid.The last of the four MEKO A SAN-Class Corvettes, SAS MENDI, wasbuilt in Kiel in Germany.According to R Adm(JG) Jonathan Kamerman,Director PROJECTSITRON, they are elatedabout their achievement,which has meant a lot ofhard work, as the teams inGermany and South Africahave successfully deliveredfour ships since June2000. "I am vindicated aswe are blessed in the SANavy to have a very competent,dedicated and hardworking team of superbpeople both in Germanyand South Africa. We havetwo motions, one of elationFltr: R Adm (JG) Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala, Director Fleet HumanResources, Capt (SAN) Kevin Packer, OC of SAS MENDI, and Lt (SAN)Xolani Hokoma, Personnel Officer, at the wreath-laying ceremony.Not just ajob, it is anadventure…Leading Seaman Annelise Hyster and LeadingSeaman Siyathemba Mbovane working on thebridge.as we have achieved our aim, and oneof exhaustion, including Armscor personnel,who were part of the team. Wehave run the race and the first part hasbeen completed and, within a year, thefirst corvette will be fully operational,"R Adm Kamerman said.The ship was named after thetragedy of the SS MENDI. On 16January 1917 a troopship, the SSMENDI, sailed from Cape Town to LeHavre, carrying the last contingent ofthe Native Labour Corps for duty inFrance. In the late afternoon of 20February the SS MENDI steamed intothe English Channel, carrying a totalof 802 black privates, five white officersand seventeen white NCOs.During that night the weatherworsened. The SS MENDI and herdestroyer escort, HMS BRISK, reducedspeed and sounded their sirensthrough the fog. A few minutes before05:00 on 21 February 1917 another

SAS MENDI loading equipment in France.ship, the SS DARO, travelling at fullspeed in the opposite direction andemitting no warning signal, rammedthe SS MENDI, which sank withintwenty minutes.Eighty-seven years later, in honourof the brave men who paid the ultimatesacrifice in the tragedy, SASMENDI is gearing up for her maidenvoyage home. After passing tough seatrials the ship's company, under thecommand of Capt (SAN) KevinPacker, were faced with the challengeof sailing the ship safely to beautiful,sunny South Africa. Cdr JacoTheunissen, Base Public RelationsOfficer at Naval Base Simon's Town,PO Eddie Kgomo from DefenceTelevision, and myself, were very fortunateto be assigned the task of capturingthe precious moments of SASMENDI en route home.The Navigation Officer, Lt (SAN) Ravin Harrisawak, atwork.We arrived in Germany on 16August 2004. The first four days werespent learning the ship's routine, orientationand in preparing her for thejourney. After this, there was stillenough time to explore Kiel. On 18August 2004 Capt (SAN) Packer hosteda function on board the ship tothank all the stakeholders for theirsupport during their stay in Kiel. SinceAugust South Africans had commemoratedWomen's Month and the arrivalof R Adm (JG) Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala, Director Fleet HumanResources. These were significantevents of support to the ship's company.The day that all the ship's companywere waiting for, 20 August 2004,duly arrived and they were united inthe quest to accomplish their final mission:to sail the SAS MENDI homesafely. According to the ExecutiveOfficer (second incommand) of theship, Cdr JimmySchutte, the ship'scompany is competentand can managethe new vesselas all had receivedan intensive trainingin Germanysince 8 May 2004.Tears were shedas the communityof Kiel saw the lastcorvette leaving.They had by nowbecome accustomedto her and had alsomade friends withher crew. After that,we were on course for the Kiel Canal,which is an artificial waterway innorth-western Germany, linking theNorth Sea and the Baltic Sea. Thecanal extends in a northeasterly directionacross the state of Schleswig-Holstein from Brunsbüttelkoog, nearthe mouth of the Elbe River, to Kiel onthe Baltic. The canal is very level, andhas locks only at its ends to accommodatethe tides of the North Sea and theBaltic Sea. Constructed between 1887and 1895 and subsequently enlarged,the canal is 98 km long, 103 m wideand 11 m deep.On leaving Germany through theKiel Canal, the ship changed courseand sailed in a southerly directionthrough the North Sea. The weatherwas moderate, which resulted in alarge number of the crew turning a bitgreen around the edges, but theymanaged to "find" their sea legs after aday or two. The ship's company tookpart in damage control exercises tokeep them sharp.FranceWe arrived in Brest, France, on 24August 2004. Brest is a small fishingand naval port in the extreme westernpart of France, with a very old history,which is evident from the old castle,forts and buildings that make up thesurrounds of the port. We immediatelyuplifted equipment.The ship's company of SASMENDI heeded the call and seized theopportunity when they were challengedto restore the pride of theirbeloved country against the FrenchNavy, and strengthen ties in an internationalsoccer match. This matchproved that language as a barriercould be overridden by sport in unifyingpeople. The SAS MENDI team hada trump card in Able Seaman SeipatiTshabalala, who was a thorn in theside of the French team. She juggledthe ball around like a true maestro, tothe delight of the spectators, butunfortunately for the French team, itwas at sixes and sevens.It did not come as any surprisethat the half-time score was 2-0 infavour of the visitors. The Frenchteam fought back in the second half bytaking the game to the visitors. This(Continued on page 20)N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R19

20(Continued from page 19)paid off as they pulled one back. Theirhappiness was short-lived as S LtSiphiwe Ngidi made it 3-1. The Frenchteam finally succumbed to a 7-4defeat.SpainWe left Brest on 27 August andarrived at Naval Base Rota, Spain, on30 August 2004. Naval Base Rota is aSpanish joint utilisation base, which isadministered under bilateral agreementbetween the Kingdom of Spainand the United States of America. It islocated in Cadiz Bay between thetown of Rota and EL Puerto de SantaMaria. It occupies an area of 2 300hectares, with a perimeter of 26 kmand a coastline 6 km long.The ship took on fuel and suppliesto ensure that the ship and her crewwere looked after during the final legof the return voyage. 2 September wasthe last day that the ship was in aEuropean port, before she left Spainfor South Africa. The trip back hometook approximately fifteen days. Theship sailed round the western bulge ofAfrica, across the Atlantic, andstraight into Table Bay, past CapeTown and towards False Bay.To keep the morale of the ship'scompany high, various competitionswere held aboard. There was an intermessquiz, cooking and beard growingcompetitions. His Gracious Majesty,SAS MENDI.King Neptune, theruler of the sevenseas, six oceans andall underwaterrealms, also visitedthe ship's company.He punished allmembers who hadnot paid homage tohis Majesty, in aceremony named'crossing the line'.Experiences ofthe crewChaplain (Cpln)Mncedisi Dinisomentioned that hewas impressed with the attendance atchurch services on board as it was voluntary,but people fitted it into theirbusy schedules. He added that it wasalso encouraging to have a person ofthe calibre of R Adm (JG) Litchfield-Tshabalala in their midst to share theWord of God with them. He urged theship's company to continue with theirhard work as he was privileged to witnessit and that they were to know thathe was proud of them and would continuepraying for them.The coxswain of SAS MENDI,WO1 Ronny Chetty, was tasked withmaintaining discipline and the welfareof both the Senior Rates and JuniorRates. He said that there were no seriousproblems as the ship's companyCrossing the line ceremony.was new and worked together as"Team MENDI". He mentioned thatexperience had taught him to bepatient, especially on long deployments.The coxswain felt thatGermany, France and Spain were thesame, but did not have a lot of time toexplore because of workloads. Heemphasised that the staffing of thecrew of SAS MENDI went smoothly,and took representivity in terms ofrace and gender into consideration.Leading Seaman Linky Boshielo isa steward, and since it was her firsttime on board the ship she took thechallenge head-on. She said she wouldlike to encourage other young womento come and work at sea as it was oneof the greatest experiences. Lifeaboard the ship has its ups and down,and they have to work twice as hard astheir male counterparts.Home sweet homeThe proud crew accomplishedtheir mission on 17 September 2004.To commemorate this event the SANavy held a Fleet Review in False Bayduring which all four corvettes wereseen at sea simultaneously for the firsttime. The officiating officer at the FleetReview was the Chief of the SANDF,Gen Siphiwe Nyanda.Personally, the voyage was an eyeopener.To experience what the menand women went through was bothenriching and educational. A bigthank-you to the whole ship's companyfor integrating me into the realNavy, you are the best. It was not easy,but it was worth it.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Farnborough International2004The future hasarrived…By Maj Gen Edward Fursdon (Ret),UKHer excellency Dr LindiweMabuza, South Africa's HighCommissioner in London,made the very welcome butunprecendented decision tospend three days atFarnborough International2004 in company with the official visitingdelegation from South Africa. Inview of the prime importance to SouthAfrica of its three current major aircraftprojects - the Hawk, the Gripenand the Super Lynx 300 - her keen personalinterest in being directlyinvolved, and in discussing and beingupdated on these three very differentprogrammes by their manufacturers,was both timely and appropriate. Herpresence in bright colourful nationaldress drew much admiration from thehuge crowds. It is understood that thedelegation itself was very impressedand satisfied with its visit - and ratedit a complete success.This year's South African delegationwas led by Mr Sipho Thomo,Chief Executive Officer of Armscor.With him were Maj Gen CarloGagiano, the SA Air Force's DirectorAir Policy and Plans, Mr MasizakheZimela, Director Non-DefencePortfolio, Industrial ParticipationSecretariat, South African Departmentof Trade and Industries, Brig GenLinda Selepe, Director OperationalSupport and Intelligence, SA AirForce, and Capt Gys van der Walt, afighter Pilot from the SA Air Force'sNo 2 Squadron. It was accompaniedthroughout by Col J. du Plessis, theSouth African High Commission's AirAdviser, and by DESO'S representativein the British High Commission inPretoria, Mr Nigel Fisher and Mr PaulWilliams.Farnborough International 2004 -whose weekend activities wereopened and closed by the RAF's RedArrows - was visited by 243 000 visitorsof whom 133 000 came on the(Continued on page 22)21Members of the South African delegation at the Hawk display. Fltr: Maj Gen Carlo Gagiano, HE Dr Lindiwe Mabuza,Brig Gen Linda Selepe, Mr Sipho Thomo, Col J. du Plessis, Capt Gys van der Walt, Mr Paul Williams and Mr MasizakheZimela.NOVE MBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

events22(Continued from page 21)Trade Days and 110 000 on the weekendPublic Days. It hosted 42 visitingofficial military delegations; and itsnumber of exhibitors rose to 1 360. 20billion dollars worth of business wasdone on its Trade Days; and dealsworth 100 million dollars wereannounced from its new BusinessAircraft Park.But several trends were noticeableas compared to previousFarnboroughs. There were fewer aircrafton show in the aprons' StaticDisplay. The Civil Air Traffic ruleswhich now apply to FarnboroughAerodrome have somewhat curtailedthe scope and freedom of action ofmany of the traditional flying displays.Company pavilions and standsrevealed a striking increase in offeringsof the hi-tech developments ininstalled aircraft battlefield managementsystems - specialising particularlyin surveillance, intelligence gathering,targeting and associated functions.There was also great interest inopportunities for major developmentsin in-flight refuelling - even for civilaircraft.As one would have expected, followingthe increasing global militaryinterest in the use of the UnmannedAerial Vehicles (UAVs), Farnboroughwell reflected the fast growing commercialinterest of major aircraft manufacturingcompanies in developingthem. It is well-known that many USFull-scale mock-up of Boeing's X-45C Unmanned Air Combat Vehicle.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4Predator UAVs are currently flyingoperational missions in Afghanistanand Iraq. But, looking ahead, on showat Farnborough were mock-ups ofBoeing's X-45C and NorthropGrumman's X-47B Unmanned CombatAir Vehicles now under developmentfor the US Pentagon. At around 40 ftlong and 33 ft wide, the X-45C isdesigned to take 4 500 1b of internalpayload; to fly at 36 500 ft and be poweredby a GE F404-102D turbofan.Boeing told me that, subject to passingall its tests, the X-45C could be flyingin two years time and be operational in2010. The UK took the opportunity ofFarnborough to announce Thales asthe Preferred Bidder for its newWatchkeeper Programme based onusing Tactical Unmanned Air Vehicles(TUAVs) for Intelligence, Surveillance,Target Acquisition andReconnaissance (ISTAR) purposes.Some companies were also interestedin developments in space.Farnborough 2004 gave good publicityto the world's latest civil and militaryaircraft and in particular provideda welcome opportunity to see thoserelated to South Africa's current threemajor aircraft projects for its Air Force.Let us start with the Hawk Lead inFighter Trainer (LIFT) displayed onthe BAE Systems' stands and of which24 have been ordered for the SA AirForce to replace its current elderlyImpala Fighter Trainers. To meet theSA Air Force's requirement, theHawks will be fitted with an upratedAdour 951 engine giving some 6 5001b of thrust and will have local avionicsand navigation/weapon suites.The first Hawk is already in SouthAfrica for extensive flight testing of itsinstrumentation, avionics, weaponsystems and so forth. The remaining23 aircraft are dated ahead for them tobe linked to the planned start in 2006of the first Operational TrainingCourse for Hawk pilots at MakhadoAir Force Base.Under current plans for Makhado,the Basic Jet Conversion Coursedesigned to take ten students - willcover general flying, navigation,instrument flying, night and formationflying. Its Operational Training phasewill include ranging and tracking,advanced air combat manoeuvres, airto-airflying, air-to-ground firing andreconnaissance, plus flying collateralmissions. There will also be a PilotAttack Instructors Course and a FlightLeaders Course - each for eight studentsa year.Turning now to the SAAB Gripenfor South Africa, the SA Air Force isdue to receive nineteen type C singleseatand nine Type D dual-seat versionsof this aircraft. The first Gripen isdue to be handed over in August 2006,with full-rate deliveries starting thefollowing year. In a separate venture,the SAAB Company is currently conductingsome initial work on a helmetmounteddisplay for the SA AirForce's Gripen. Currently the SA AirForce is planning to station all itsHawks and Gripens at Makhado AirForce Base - where, in the future, allSA Air Force combat pilot training willtake place. On current planning,Makhado Air Force Base will thenbecome the Centre of Excellence for allSA Air Force's fighter aircraft. TheGripen's Farnborough flying displaysequence of top, barrel and horizontalrolls, inverted flying, steep divingturns, vertical climbs and loops was atremendously impressive display ofsheer awesome power and agility.Little wonder that the No 2 Squadronpilot, Capt Gys van der Walt, told mehe could not wait to fly it!The SA Air Force is planning for acomputer-based training system for all

Members of the South African delegation at the Gripen stand. Fltr: Capt Gys van der Walt, Mr Sipho Thomo, Brig GenLinda Selepe, Mr Nigel Fisher, Maj Gen Carlo Gagiano, Mr Masizakhe Zimela and Col J. du Plessis.Gripen air and ground crew whichwill include an operational flighttrainer simulator, and integrated managementsystems for mission are alsobeing paid to the Gripen'shuman/machine interface being integratedfor a South African weaponsfit.South Africa's third major aircraftproject is with the Augusta-WestlandSuper Lynx 300 helicopter - of whichfour Naval Versions are on order forthe SA Air Force to operate from onboard the SA Navy's four newcorvettes. Under current plans, deliveryof the Lynx will be completed bymid-2007 and total corvette-helicopterintegration is due to be completed bymid-2008. Members of the SouthAfrican Farnborough 2004 delegationtook the opportunity while in the UKto go down and visit Westlands atYeovil in Dorset to discuss the project.Subsequent reports indicated that theproject is currently going very welland is on time. In particular,Westlands much welcomed the candidand forward-looking nature oftheir discussions with the SouthAfrican delegation.This ground breaking joint venturebetween the SA Navy and the SA AirForce is a very interesting and sensibleforay into future integration fromwhich much will be learnt and notonly by South Africa. The Super Lynx300 has a range of 500 nm and a speedof 132 knots. Under current plans, theSA Air Force-crewed helicopters willoperate on SA Navy ships under theSA Navy's operating procedures; andbe a fully integrated part of theircorvette force. The Lynx's primaryrole will be to act as an over the horizonextension of the on board ships'ssensors, and of its weapon and antisubmarinecapability. Overall, it willoperate as "the eyes and ears of itsmother corvette".Designed to operate in high seastates and in extreme conditions, theSuper Lynx 300 can also support thecorvette in many of its non-combatroles, such as investigation, inspectionand enforcement, search and rescue,casevac, communications relay, airbornesituation assessment, amphibioustransport, self- deployment andtraining. It can also undertake limitedvertical replenishment and deckoffloading. The Royal Navy, whichhas great experience in operating itshelicopters off ships at sea, has offeredto help the SA Navy in any way it canto ensure the success of the project.What the next Farnborough will belike is a subject of conjecture by manyof this year's commercial attendees.Some companies said that there arenow too many large air shows in differentparts of the world and thatsome of the dates were far too closetogether. Many also said that the sheercost outlay of mounting a proper andpositive attendance at them hadbecome prohibitively expensive. Butyou just had to "show" or else, intoday's highly competitive age, youwere quickly sidelined.An interesting problem forthought is just how could you stage avariable air display if the future meantmore UAVs than piloted aircraft todemonstrate; certainly mixing themup could lead towards disaster. Welook forward to seeing just what happenstwo years from now!N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R23

eventsSalute the courageousspirit of womenBy Nomonde VuthelaPhotos: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaAlmost half a decade ago 20000 women marched to theUnion Buildings and plantedthe seeds of democracy. Itis therefore fitting that after10 years of freedom SouthAfrican women returned tothat very place to complete the circle.48 years ago women marched againstinjustice, on 31 August 2004 a newgeneration of women marched to thesame spot in celebration of a newSouth Africa.Dozens and dozens of women filteredonto the grounds of the UnionBuildings after marching from thePretoria Art Museum in Arcadia. Formany women this was the second timethat they marched: they had marchedin 1956 and, although their knees wereno longer as strong, this was to theman anniversary not to be missed.It was truly a spectacular sight,there were so many old women, mostof whom could barely make it up thesteep landscape of the UnionBuildings, let alone the endless seriesof stairs that lead to the Amphitheatrewhere the main function was held.It was beautiful to see how so48 yearslater…many women could just converge on achosen point at such short notice. Theenergy as the women marched wasfantastic, it was really all about thespirit and the prevailing feeling of victory.Those that were no longer physicallyable came as far as they couldwith the march, which in reality was tothe bottom of the Union Buildingsgrounds where tents had been pitchedand people could sit. From here, still inhuge numbers, they danced and sangfrom their seats.24Women marched from the Pretoria Art Museum to the Union Buildings in Pretoria.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Deputy President Jacob Zuma and MsSophie de Bryn release doves into the air.If one had missed the1956 march out of fear ofthe unknown or forwhatever reason, historywas giving women a secondchance to performthis great deed all overagain. History doesrepeat itself, but the wonderfulprize is in recognisinghow things can bedone differently this timearound.The younger womenmarched the rest of theway and represented allSouth African women inthe Amphitheatre wherelife-size portraits of a fewgreat women were hung.Ms Sophie WilliamsdeBruyn said that retracingsteps taken 48 yearsago left her with mixedemotions. "We mustremind ourselves neverto remain complacent,"said Ms Williams-deBruyn "A solid foundationwas laid here 48 years ago: thenwomen were outraged at the injustice,today we celebrate our freedom," sheadded.Also addressing the gathering wasour Deputy President, Mr JacobZuma, and he said that today we areable to gather at the Union Buildings,not in protest, but in celebration. "Weowe it to this mass of women to celebrateour democracy," Mr Zuma said."No amount of words can describe thecontribution women have made, wesalute the courageous spirit ofwomen," he continued.A woman heads Parliament - MsBaleka Kgositsile - four out of ninepremiers are women and the newCabinet is composed of 27 men and 22women. Women have created forthemselves a sure place in this democracy.We who raise kings and presidents,mineworkers and street sweepersalike, had our day at the UnionBuildings. As the High Commissionerto Malaysia, Ms Lindiwe Mabuza, putit in a poem, "Wena nsimbi ayigobeki" -women are like unbending steel.Ground hostesses celebratingWomen's DayThe ground hostesses were honoured by the presence of our DeputyPresident, Mr Jacob Zuma.Being a group of multicultural womenat Movement Control at WaterkloofAFB their diversity originated the ideato share their cultures with one anotherto celebrate Women's Day.Although they work togethereveryday, the only culture that is projectedis the Air Force culture.The group decided to do this byprojecting their culture through theirrespective traditional dresses. As seenin the accompanying photo, theground hostesses were honoured bythe presence of our Deputy President,Mr Jacob Zuma.No effort was spared and thewomen looked stunning in their traditionaldress.The day ended on a high note withthe women having a braai. They commentedthat women have come a longway since the days when theyrequired a signature from their husbandsor male partners to obtainnecessities such as apartments andtelephones. (Article and photocourtesy Waterkloof AFB)N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R25

eventsWomen to fly theirown flagBy Alpheus Dzivhani andCapt L. RakhibanePhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe final report on the ThirdAfrican Women's Peace TableSeminar, whose theme was"The Role and Respon-sibilityof South African Women inthe Furtherance of the AU-NEPAD Peace and SecurityAgenda in the African Continent andInternationally" was launched at theSheraton Hotel in Pretoria on 24August 2004 by the DOD, presidedover by Brig Gen Ansuyah Fakir,Director Joint Support Managementin the Joint Support Division.Dr Monica K. Juma of SaferAfricaintroduced the final report co-sponsoredby the Equal OpportunitiesChief Directorate (DOD) andSaferAfrica. The seminar broughttogether over one hundred womenrepresentatives from the SANDF andthe South African Security forces,twenty-one governmental representativesfrom twelve SADC memberstates, thirty women from SouthAfrica's civil society organisations,and four women ambassadors accreditedto South Africa to explore theposition and participation of womenin defence and security related mattersin the furtherance of the AU-NEPADpeace and security agenda on theAfrican continent and beyond, and tomake key recommendations for theattention of decision-makers.The report comprises ten presentationsand a conference report outliningthe key issues and recommendationsof the seminar, which was ultimatelyadopted by the delegates. Each ofthese presentations describes opportunitiesfor increasing the participationof women in the eight AU-NEPADpeace and security agendas, specificallyregarding the following:Moving beyondthe talk… Engagement of women in theinstitutional processes of creatingan African peace and securitystructure. Early warning of early action:the role of women in peacesupport operations. The role of women in the actualisationof the AU-NEPADAPSA. Engagement in combating theproliferation of small arms andlight weapons. The role of women in theDDRR. Improving security sector governance. The conversion of militarycapability for civilian use.Brig Gen Fakir said during herspeech that the final report charts the26Delegates at the launch of the final report on the Third African Women's Peace Table Seminar.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

culmination of a three year processwhich began when the First PeaceTable was convened under the visionarydirection of the then DeputyMinister of Defence, Ms NozizweMadlala-Routledge, and Maj GenJackie Sedibe, Chief Director EqualOpportunities.She said that the publication was acollection of the presentations made atthe Third Peace table attended by overone hundred women from SouthernAfrica on 28 October 2003."It is not yet Uhuru whenLightning threatens the peace inBurundiWhen there is thunder roaring in theDRCIt is not yet UhuruWhen there are wild fires of hatreddevouringThe beautiful people and the land" - ByCol Belinda Martin (Gloria Mtungwa,Sep 2003).This poem was quoted by Brig GenFakir in context, and she said that itresonated with the harsh truth ofAfrica. We are not free until the lastweapon has been put down, not untilCelebrations in the Eastern CapeBy Lt Col D.E. Fouchéthe last landmine is cleared from ourland, not until the last child soldierreturns to school, and not until the girlchild is safe.Brig Gen Fakir made a clarion callto the women of Africa to stand up,speak out and take their rightful placein leading Africa to peace and security.She went on to highlight the insecurityand the tragedy in Darfur andthe cruel massacre of 160 refugees,mainly women and children, in therefugee camp in Burundi, which was astark reminder of the important rolewomen must play in peace-makingand peace building.At the publication launch delegatesdiscussed key challenges confrontingwomen in Africa. Those identifiedwere that women continued toface institutional and social discriminationin many countries in Africa,and that women were unequal partnersin policy debates, leadership anddecision-making bodies. To remedythis required African society in generalto remove its barriers to the full participationof women in peace initiativesand to harness the full potentialof women.The women renewed the call toengage the collective wisdom of theAU to expand and develop the conceptof developmental peacekeepingto a level where it can be institutionalisedand resourced within the AU.This would require the formulation ofa developmental peacekeeping doctrine,which should guide the retrainingof African forces towards contributingto the reconstruction of thecontinent.The vision of this emerging uniquecontinental concept of African peacekeepingis to see military personnel, aswell as multi-disciplinary teams ofdevelopmental economists, civil engineers,public and developmental managersand policy developers deployedat the onset of peacekeeping operations.Brig Gen Fakir concluded by sayingthat the report contributed aframework towards the engagementof women in the AU Peace andSecurity Agenda for the continent andwhich must be taken forward throughclear implementation plans.A function in celebration of Women'sDay was held in the Nelson MandelaMetropole Municipality City Hall on10 August 2004. The SANDF ReserveForce Regional Office Eastern Cape, incollaboration with all the otherServices, hosted the function.This was an historical occasion as itwas the first time that all Services tookhands with their civilian counterparts.VIP guests who attended the function,included the Premier of theEastern Cape, Ms N. Balindlela, andthe Speaker of the Nelson MandelaMetropole Municipality, Ms N.Mohapi.Female members of localGovernment, prominent businesswomenof the Metropole, women fromCoega Development Corporation (Pty)Ltd, the National Ports AuthorityNqura, tertiary and other traininginstitutions, media and senior femaleofficers of the SANDF in the PortFltr: Capt E. Smith, Ms N. Mohapi, the Speaker of Nelson Mandela MetropoleMunicipality, Lt Col D.E. Fouché, Ms N. Balindlela, the Premier of EasternCape, and Ms M.M. Smith.Elizabeth area attended the celebrations.Guests were treated to a formalmilitary dinner during which the roleof women in the SANDF was elucidated.The role of employers in supportof the Reserve Force was also clarified.Mr Jacques Arendt of Bay FM hadthe privilege of entertaining thewomen during the evening and a specialgift, portraying the SANDF, waspresented to the Premier and theSpeaker.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R27

eventsReaching beyond the ordinaryBy Nakedi PhashaPhoto: F Sgt Amelda Strydom28South Africa is following the globaltrend where one in every four womenis in an abusive relationship, with onewoman being murdered by her partnerevery six days. "Domestic violenceis tolerated by society. Men deny itand women tolerate it," to quote MsIrene Khan, the first female Secretary-General of Amnesty International.August is the month during whichwomen celebrate their freedom andachievements; it is a month for breakingthe silence about the curse of violenceagainst women, and it is aboutbreaking taboos and embracing ourfemininity. On 31 August 2004 thePSAP ETD held its first women's celebrationsat the Navy Mess in Pretoria.The day was well planned with a lot ofentertainment and activities, such asmakeovers, belly dance demonstrationsand a table décor competition, tomention but a few of the items. All theactivities were centred on the theme ofthe day, which was "Becoming a betteryou". Even Mr Vernon Swarts, Headof PSAP ETD, the only man who hadthe privilege of being at the celebrations,had his own fair share of bellydance lessons. The first prize in thetable décor competition went to theSA National Defence War College,with their table representing Africa,Representing diversity, the winning group from the SA National Defence WarCollege.its diversity and the rainbow nation.In her speech Brig Gen AnsuyahFakir, Director Joint SupportManagement in the Joint SupportDivision, saluted women role models.The likes of Miriam Makeba, GracaMachel, Monique Strydom andAlison, the Noordhoek Ripper case,were inspirations to women to live bytheir example. She also encouragedwomen to grasp the opportunities thatare around them in the young democracy."Succeeding is more an attitude,a state of mind, a way of looking atlife. Oh yes, talent, hard work and disciplinedo play a role. Fear of failuremakes us take an easy route, to doLegacy of Chief Albert LuthuliBy Maj F. Ricketts, JTRG CECEMembers of Joint Training CivicEducation Centre of Excellence (JTRGCECE) and the PSAP ETD attendedlectures at the University of theWitwatersrand in Johannesburg from3 to 6 August 2004.The group was delegated to implementprogrammes on civic educationand governance. The main topic of theweek was the Legacy of Chief AlbertLuthuli.This Second Annual MatthewGoniwe Memorial Lecture consistedof seven sessions that focussed onrural development, education, globalisation,urban regeneration/gentrification,health, housing, transport andinfrastructure.Some of the governance topics thatwere discussed during these sessionsincluded: "The relationship between theInstitution of Traditional Leadershipand Rural District Councils"delivered by Dr MangosuthuButhelezi, the President of the IFP. "Rural development and dualismin governance" delivered by MrElias M. Mahoma, Director OCEOSouth African Local Governmentnothing. But then again, are we livingour lives or merely seeing out the minutes,hours and days?" she asked."The glass ceiling is there. Do notstand in front of it, break through, it isyour right and challenge. Stand upand seize the day! But remember, withrights come responsibilities," Brig GenFakir concluded.Yellow roses are a symbol offriendship. To show his appreciationand respect for women Mr Swarts presentedyellow roses to Brig Gen Fakirand Madie Haynes, the Master ofCeremonies for the day. Hopefullysome of the men in the SANDF tooknote…Association (SALGA)."Education, leadership and governancein South Africa in relation tothe globalisation phenomenon"delivered by Ms Zandile Kunene,Executive Director MatthewGoniwe School of Leadership andGovernance."Cities in globalisation" deliveredby Mr Sello Moloto, the Premier ofLimpopo."Social changes in East Germancities" delivered by Ms DagmarPohle, Regional Officer for Socialand Economic Activities in Berlin'sMarzahn-Hillersdorf District.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Celebrating women inten years of democracyBy Capt Mohau Modise, DirectorateCorporate CommunicationPhoto: F Sgt Amelda StrydomWhile the celebratory moodof Women's Day wasstarting to settle down 26and 27 August a group ofwomen kept the candleburning for Women'sMonth by embarking on avisit to different military installationsin Phalaborwa.The visit consisted of women fromdifferent Government departments,including Correctional Services, theMetropolitan Council, ItsosengWomen's League, and NW MogwaseWomen's Organisation, to name but afew. The aim of the visit was to commemorateWomen's Month, ten yearsof democracy and also to sensitiseother women outside the DOD to theachievements and capabilities ofwomen in uniform, in particular.The visit was also graced by seniormembers from the different Serviceswho accompanied the guests, withBrig Gen Nontsikelelo Motumi, DirectorSocial Work, being the mostsenior DOD member. She did not onlyform part of the visit, but also donatedbags with a logo depicting ten years ofdemocracy on behalf of herDirectorate to the visiting group ascorporate gifts.The group left Swartkop Air ForceBase in Pretoria on 26 August 2004 andfirst visited Hoedspruit Air Force Basewhere they were presented with thehistory and present status of the unitby Brig Gen P. du Plessis.The next day they visited 7 SAInfantry Battalion (7 SAI Bn) where thebriefing was about force preparationfor members deploying outside theborders of South Africa in neighbouringcountries. One of the guests at 7SAI Bn asked what the DOD does inpreparing and supporting familiesand relatives of those members whoare deployed. Brig Gen Motumiexplained that the Directorate of SocialWelfare of the DOD has a mechanismin place to deal with such issues ashow to handle their finances, stressmanagement, and how to handle thechildren while the other partner isaway, as there will be role reversal. Incases where a husband has deployedfor six months and the wife has to playa dual role, the Social WelfareDepartment will help to prepare suchpartners psychologically and makethem understand that they are notonly married to soldiers, but to memberswho are expected to safeguardthe citizens of South Africa and theirinhabitants. Therefore their familiesmust be prepared to sacrifice theirloved ones for such a calling.The next day the cheerful groupvisited the DOD Reserves where a presentationon the role and tasks of theCommandos and Reserve Force memberswas explained. The visit was concluded,after which the group leftPhalaborwa aboard a C130 and flewback to Pretoria. All were smiles andexpressed their gratitude for havinglearned so much and had a betterunderstanding that the SANDF wasan integral part of the broader societyand consisted of various Services thatthey had not known existed. Theywere now ready to go back to their differentcommunities and share theirexperiences, especially with regard tothe achievements of women in theDOD after ten years of democracy.They could not help singing:'Malibongwe I gama la bafazi' whichmeans 'Praise to the women'.29Back in Pretoria the visiting group were all smiles.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

eventsZoom in ondistance learning30Compiled by Col A. van der Walt(COLET) and PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe DOD continues to undergostructural and functionalchanges in the process ofpositioning itself for thefuture. Developments inEducation Training andDevelopment (ETD), withinthe Department, the country and internationallyhave all had a direct impacton the training element of preparingand maintaining the DOD's forces,and this in turn has had a bearing onhow the DOD facilitates the learningprocess.Certainly its vision of creating acredible, values-centred DOD ETDprocess, creating appropriate, efficientand effective opportunities that areaccessible and inspiring to our people,achieving competence for missionreadiness within an environment conduciveto progressive learning (asdefined by the DOD's ETD WorkGroup Report 1999) continues to openup many exciting and new ETDopportunities within the Department.New technologies, new delivery platformsand innovative programmes arecontinuously being developed andimplemented by the various DODETD providers, while others are stilltrying to update themselves. A veryreal need exists with the DOD forproviders to be aware of these developmentsand to develop themselvesaccordingly.To address this need a DOD ETDconference was convened in Pretoriaon 28 and 29 July 2004 to address twoETD aspects, namely that of accreditationof DOD ETD Providers and distancelearning in the DOD. The goal ofthe conference was to provideEducation, Training and DevelopmentPractitioners (ETDPs)with the opportunitynot only to be informedabout distance learningpossibilities, but tohave the chance to contextualise,through discussiongroups andpanel discussions, theconcepts that were presented.Speakers weretherefore selected whopractise the wholespectrum of distancelearning, from paperbasedthrough to computer-basedtrainingand e-learning.The distance learningstream was conse-S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4quently structured in four sessions.The first session served to provide theintroduction to distance learning byfirst defining what is meant by distancelearning, then providing anoverview of the distance learning inSouth Africa and after that narrowingit down to what is happening in theDOD in this regard.The introductory session was followedby a session where three presentersintroduced the aspects that areconsidered in the design of distancelearning, namely the components of adistance learning system, the technologiesthat can be utilised frompaper-based to e-learning, and thepolicies that have to be in place for distancelearning to be successful.After the lectures the group dividedinto three and had intensive discussionsled by the presenters. During thepanel discussion where the groupsreported back from the breakaway sessionit became clear that the systemsapproach to distance learning wasimportant to ensure that all the aspectswere addressed, especially the supportsystem.Maj Faeza Jacobs, Senior ETD Practitioner andQuality Enablement at COLET giving a lecture atthe conference.The third session covered thedevelopment and implementation ofdistance learning. The interactive possibilitiesof information communicationtechnologies were clearly illustrated.It was emphasised thatalthough the DOD did not have all theinfrastructure it needed yet to provideall distance learning in a technologicallyadvanced manner, advancedcapabilities were available in pockets,for example at the SA Army CombatTraining Centre (SAACTC), the SAMilitary Health Services TrainingFormation, the Maritime WarfareSchool in Simon's Town, SITA anddesign capabilities at the SANDFCollege of Educational Technology(COLET). The exhibition by theSAMHS training formation andSAACTC clearly illustrated this.The role of the facilitator was discussedin great detail and one conclusionreached in the panel discussionwas that not just anybody could be adistance learning facilitator. Pertinentskills and attributes have to be developed.The role of the line of command(from the officer commanding to the

direct supervisor of the learner) andthe leadership displayed in this regardwere stressed as one of the critical successfactors for distance learning.The fourth and last sessionaddressed the aspects of the assessmentin distance learning and thequality assurance of distance learningpractice. Active debates revolvedaround these issues. One of the mainissues is that the authenticity of theassessments has to be ensured. As faras quality assurance is concerned itwas confirmed that each and everystep and each and every role-player isinvolved in ensuring that quality ETDis implemented.The final presentation was on aDistance Learning Policy for the DOD.Chief Joint Training appointed aDistance Learning Task Team Leaderon 4 November 2003 and the firstproduct of the task team that was subsequentlyformed was a draft policyInstil discipline in our Armyon distance learning for the DOD. Oneof the task team members presentedthis draft policy. It was clear from thediscussions and feedback that this policywas long overdue and that morethan the ETD environment wasinvolved. Serious involvement by thehuman resources environment wasalso requested, especially as far as thealignment of career paths and effectiveutilisation of learning opportunitieswere concerned.By Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt Amelda StrydomThe annual Warrant Officers and NoncommissionedOfficers Competitionwas held at the SA Army Gymnasiumin Heidelberg from 30 August to 3September 2004.WO1 Eddie Sykes, Sergeant Majorof the SA Army, said the aim of thiscompetition was to empower theWarrant Officers (WOs) and the NoncommissionedOfficers (NCOs). Thisaim was inspired by the Chief of theSA Army, Lt Gen Solly Shoke, whosaid his prime mission is to instil disciplinein the SA Army. The competitionwas also attended by officers fromTanzania and Namibia.The members participated in differentactivities, such as drill, neatness,a pace stick competition, fitness, orienteering,shooting, physical trainingand general knowledge. In 2002 theSA Team participated in England inthe British Military Pace StickCompetition.WO1 Sykes mentioned that it wasinteresting to realise that female soldierswere actually achieving a lotduring the competition, in spite ofcompeting against their male counterpartson the same level.Sgt Mayke Poo (now S Sgt Poo)from the SA Army Infantry FormationHeadquarters was overall the fittestNCO in 2002 and in 2003. A ReserveForce female team from VredendalCommando obtained the first place inthe development pace sticking categoryin 2003. This year quite a number offemale teams participated and, in thesenior team division, the B-team fromASB Durban came second with afemale driver, including anotherwoman as part of the team.The ideal would be to obtainsufficient funds to send a femalepace stick team to the BritishMilitary Pace Stick Competition,which is held annually at theSandhurst Military Academy,said WO1 Sykes.Addressing the audience atthe Awards Ceremony, the Chiefof the SA Army said: "The WOsand NCOs are the members of atime-honoured corps known asthe backbone of the SA Army.You are the guardians of soundmilitary discipline and leaders ofmen and women in uniform. Youare the ones charged with theresposibility, through your professionalconduct, to ensure thatorders are carried out with thenecessary vigour and convictionthey deserve."The Intelligence Formation Team duringResultsthe Pace Stick competition. Best Marksman - WO2Jansen van Rensburg Wyngaard (Armour Fmn B-(Armour Fmn)Team) Fittest Member - Sgt Best Pace Stick Driver - S SgtMakgetkwa (Int Fmn)Radebe (Engineer Fmn) Lance Corporal of the Year - L Best Pace Sticker - L Cpl RayCpl Hanneman (Armour Fmn(ASB Durban)A-Team) Pace Stick Team - Reserve Corporal of the Year - Cpl DeForce (Group 16)Bus (Armour Fmn A-Team)Sergeant of the Year - SgtMokhothu (Armour Fmn B-Team)Staff Sergeant of the Year- S SgtPenny (ASB Potchefstroom)WO of the Year - WO2 Van Development Pace Stick Team -Intelligence Fmn A-Team Senior Pace Stick Team -Engineer Fmn A-Team Master Veteran Pace StickTeam - Base WO Team African Cup - Armour FmnN O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R31

insightThe success of Phidisalies in communication32By Brig Gen N.E. Motumi,Director Social WorkRecent media reports on therate of HIV and AIDS infectionin the SANDF haveevoked different emotions inindividuals. The question toaddress at this juncture isnot how many people areinfected with this disease, but whatthe DOD's response is to this challenge.The Plenary Defence StaffCouncil (PDSC) has endorsed the collaborationbetween the SANDF, USDoD and NIH in order to provideARVs to SANDF members and theirdependants through Project Phidisa.The question raised by many atthis point is whether the DOD shouldengage the media on HIV and AIDSrelated matters as there is a risk of theinformation being sensationalised.The Phidisa leadership's response inthis regard is that the media should bean intended target audience, as membersof the press have the power toinfluence public opinion either positivelyor negatively. It is for this reasonthat the Phidisa communicationstrategy advocates a controlled processof media access to informationrelated to this important project.Project Phidisa entails groundbreaking clinical research on the useof ARVs by SANDF HIV positivemembers and their dependants. Thisis the first time in this country's historythat researchers who are examiningan issue understand the participantscompletely. It is already evident thatthe results of this research will influencepolicy decisions on the use ofARVs in the South African context. Asa result, engaging the media aboutprogress achieved in this endeavourshould be regarded as part of raisingmembers' awareness of the positiveresults and the side effects that mightS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4be experienced by patients on thesedrugs.The primary goals of projectPhidisa's communication strategy areto encourage internal awareness of,support for, and participation in thisproject by informing SANDF membersand their dependants that this clinicalresearch seeks to provide objectiveevidence of the best way to care forHIV positive uniformed DOD personneland their family members.Through this research questionsabout the use of ARV in the SouthAfrican context will be made available,and members' understanding ofthe concept of clinical research will beenhanced. This will include the messageof participants as partners in thisimportant medical research initiative.The core message for SANDF personnelaffected by HIV and AIDS isthat the DOD is proactively involvedin researching the best possible treatmentregimes for HIV positive membersand their dependants.Participation in project Phidisa isstrictly voluntary and people canchoose whether they want to participateor not. However, once enrolled,they cannot leave the project becausethis would be to the detriment of theirhealth. Project Phidisa is a long-termprogramme, and full participation inthe programme requires commitment.Participants in this research project areregarded as full partners.For SANDF members who do notknow their status: Project Phidisa is theDOD's proactive response to a criticalproblem. Project Phidisa aims to promoteand maintain the combat readinessof the SANDF.For other government officials:Project Phidisa is a South African initiativethat will establish a state of theart clinical research programme withinthe DOD. This project will enablethe SANDF serve the country in differ-ent, but significant ways, through theimplementation of the Batho Pele principles.For other influential communityleaders and NGOs: Through ProjectPhidisa research will play an importantrole in policy formulation and implementation.This project will contributeto the effectiveness of a holistic treatmentprogramme to the general public.The SANDF as a microcosm ofSouth African society is best positionedto establish such a clinicalresearch programme, because of itsability to trace its members.For the public: Prevention is stillthe key message in the fight againstHIV and AIDS. Project Phidisa isproactively addressing a critical problemfor the benefit of this country andthe region.For HIV positive members:Support groups will be established inall research sites for SANDF HIV positivemembers in order to solicit theirviews on policy issues, planning,development and implementation ofthis research.In general communication plays akey role in all spheres of life and forthis reason information on progressand challenges experienced throughthis Project will be furnished on a continuousbasis. For Project Phidisa tosucceed, its leadership will focus itscommunication on SANDF membersand their dependants. It is hoped thatby so doing, the internal audience'sunderstanding of the use of ARVs willbe enhanced.Through this process they will beable to read through the sensationalismbehind any story relating to HIVand AIDS within the DOD. The messageconveyed is that through enrolmentin Project Phidisa, the lives ofSANDF HIV positive members andtheir dependants will be prolonged.

She who has conqueredBy Nomonde VuthelaPhoto: PO Eddie KgomoSergeant Philisiwe NqobileNtshangase, a Data Monitorfor Phidisa at 1 MilitaryHospital has first names thattell a tale. "Philisiwe" meansone to whom life has beengiven and "Nqobile" is onewho has to conquer. In June 2004 SgtNtshangase, who is living withHIV/AIDS received on behalf of theDOD the candle of hope from theInterdepartmental GovernmentCommittee.She then lit a flame of remembrancein honour of herself and allthose living with HIV/AIDS, includingthe many loved ones and friendsaffected by the scourge and the millionswho are abused every day asthey fight against discriminationtowards people living with the virus.The flame was also lit in memory ofthe many that have lost the battleagainst the disease and have passedon.It takes a remarkable kind ofwoman to be in people's faces all daylong, going on about HIV/AIDS, yetthat is what Sgt Ntshangase does for aliving. The Phidisa Project that sheworks for is a treatment study forHIV/AIDS that is run by the SANDF."Women have been empowered sowe can stand up for anything," saidSgt Ntshangase. "Women living withHIV/AIDS must be strong and facethe challenges of life; they must getmore information and be empowered.""It was very difficult to be the firstwoman in uniform to disclose my HIVstatus in the SANDF, said SgtNtshangase. "I have been throughthick and thin, not to mention theabuse, but through God I fought it andsaid that I will never stop teachingpeople about HIV/AIDS," she continued."They call HIV positive women terriblenames and people sometimes saythe reason why I decided to come out,was because I had given up on life,"Sgt Ntshangase revealed. She addedthat, on the contrary, she is open abouther status because she is fighting forherself and for the right to live."My church, my faith and the peopleI love give me the strength to live,"said Sgt Ntshangase."Many women do come to me anddisclose their positive status. I knowthat not everyone will shout out like Ido and I give them tips about healthyliving and how to take medication,"she continued. Sgt Ntshangase takesseven anti-viral tablets a day - a commitmentshe must stick to for the restof her life. She said: "I try to teachmothers, sisters and daughters how tocope with taking medication in alltheir various environments.""I give them tips because I am alsofrom there," Sgt Ntshangase reaffirmed.She also noted that partners indenial about their HIV status place aheavier burden on the women whostay silent out of fear of rejection."Other women are not empowered,especially those from poor backgroundsand those who rely on theman's salary. But the women who areindependent tell their partners and goon with their lives," she said.How do you handle talking aboutthis difficult subject everyday in aworld where many are not ready tohear I asked, "I communicate withGod," she replied."I thought it was a burden to beHIV positive. I did not know what wasthe meaning of life, but thank God forHIV because I have seen wonders -that power to talk about what youhave been living with and what youare living for," she said, making allseem so simple.Maybe there is a flip side to theAIDS/HIV tragedy, but it is a longjourney to a destination that can be"2010 SoccerBid here Icome."Sgt Philisiwe Nqobile Ntshangase,a Data Monitor for Phidisa at 1Military Hospital.reached only through determinationand courage. Women need to makethat choice to turn the situationaround.As Sgt Ntshangase said: "I did notrealise I had power until I was testedHIV positive. Now I can educateyoung people, the community andmembers of the SANDF.""Life is still there to enjoy, so 2010Soccer Bid, here I come! I will be a VIPon that day because one day I be theDirector for HIV/AIDS in theSANDF," promised Sgt Ntshangase.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R33

eventsReopening of Air ForceCommand and ControlSchool34By Brig Gen Portia Sibiya, DirectorCorporate Staff Service, SAAFThe history of Air ForceCommand and ControlSchool, as it is known today,can be traced back to 1January 1956 when the controland reporting school atWaterkloof AFB was opened.During the seventies and early eightiesradar operator and mission controltraining took place at the Air DefenceSchool, air traffic controllers weretrained at the Air Traffic ControlSchool at Pietersburg and missile controltraining was conducted at 250 AirDefence Unit at Hammanskraal.The three groups, namely the AirDefence School, the Air Traffic ControlSchool and 250 Air Defence UnitTraining Wing amalgamated in 1985to form the Air Space Control School.Organisational development andrestructuring later necessitated therelocation of the joint operations trainingwing, previously stationed at theAir Force College, to the Air SpaceControl School. Owing to the lack ofsufficient accommodation and facilitiesat the former school for logisticaltraining, the communication-trainingwing was likewise moved to the AirSpace Control School. Transformationand the establishment of the new systemgroups saw the integration of theAir Traffic Control, mission controland reporting, communications andcommand post functions in the SA AirForce into one directorate, namely theDirectorate Command and ControlSystems. This subsequently led to therenaming in 1999 of the Air SpaceControl School to the Air ForceCommand and Control School.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4Up to and until April 2003 AirForce Command and Control Schoolfunctioned as a force structure elementof Directorate Education, Training andDevelopment, which managed thetraining required for command andcontrol systems.The core business of Air ForceCommand and Control School is to bethe proud provider of command andcontrol training for the SA Air Force. Itconducts the functional developmentsof air traffic controllers, mission controllers,communication officers, commandpost officers, MAOT commanders,air traffic service assistants, radaroperators, communications operatorsand command post assistants. Becausethe most of the training at the school isadvanced functional training the AirForce Board decided to transfer theCommand and Control School toDirectorate Command and ControlSystems. As training lies at the heart ofthe development of excellence,Directorate Command and Controleagerly accepted the Command andControl School as its force structureelements and saw the school as thetrue cornerstone for the future of commandand control excellence.In September 2003 the Air ForceBoard decided to re-locate two units toHoedspruit AFB, namely the Air ForceCommand and Control School and 19Squadron. The Air Force Board gavethe target date as December 2004.Directorate Command and ControlSystems grasped the relocation opportunityas the catalyst to bring about afundamental change to a real learningenvironment. To this end it was decidedto relocate during December 2003to give impetus to the required culturechange. This decision did put extremepressure on the organisation, and itwas only due to the excellent teamapproach and dynamic leadershipwithin the command and control environmentand the greater Air Force thatthis huge task was completed in such ashort time.Maj Gen C. Gagiano, Chief Director Air Policy and Plan (left), congratulatesCol M.O. Mcetywa on his new appointment as OC Command and ControlSchool and with the reopening of the school in Hoedspruit.

All the role players had to performwell to bring all systems into play.They had to focus on the migrationplan elements, which included accommodation,both domestic as well asfunctional, transportation of equipment,upgrading of facilities, transferof personnel, cost implications andmany more. On this note, the officerscommanding and their teams fromHoedspruit AFB, 1 Air Servicing Unit,5 Air Servicing, 10 Air Depot and theAir Force Mobile Deployment Wingwere praised for their total commitmentand exceptional support thatbrought about the smooth re-locationof the Air Force Command andControl School. An awesome amounthas been achieved in a very short period,if it is taken into consideration thatit has only been ten months since theAir Force Board decided to relocatethe school.The last courses to be presented atCommand and Control School atWaterkloof AFB were completed on 28November 2003. Since early January2004 when the Command ControlSchool once again opened its doors fortraining at Hoedspruit AFB, fourteencourses have been successfully presented.Seven courses are currently inprogress and thirteen courses areplanned for the rest of 2004. This alsomeans that at certain periods sinceJanuary 2004 up to seventy students ata time have been trained and accommodated.During this phase a newMAOT course, as well as a Commandand Control AB INITIO Course wasalso developed and presented.Concluding from the observationand comments made by the visitinggroups during the tour of the accommodationfacilities, the learning centre,the ham shack and the differenttraining wings at the school, it is clearthat all have gone out of their way notonly to make this relocation a success,but more importantly, the culturetransformation to a learning environmenthas been hugely successful.There is also an impression that thenew environment has resulted inmembers having a more positive outlookand the new culture of learningwill continue to assist Command andControl School to step into the futureas a centre of learning excellence.With what has been achieved atHoedspruit AFB, Command andControl truly see themselves as part ofSA Air Force vision 2010 in assistingthe Air Force Board in its endeavoursto make the SA Air Force a truly representative,competent, proud andcombat-ready organisation, which thenation expects it to be."A final word of appreciation goesto the Officer Commanding of Commandand Control School, Col M.O.Mcetywa, and all the members of theschool: never forget that you are representingthe SA Air Force in theLimpopo region and that it is yourduty to promote the image of the AirForce and to uphold its traditions. Youperformed with great distinction andyou did your unit and the SA AirForce proud. Our value of excellencein all we do was perfectly demonstrated.Well done." Those were Maj GenGagiano's words during the officialopening ceremony held at Hoedspruiton 19 August 2004. Command andControl School has reopened and Iwill proceed to unveil the plaque asthe symbol of learning excellence,concluded Maj Gen C. Gagiano, ChiefDirector Air Policy and Plan.Handing over the reignsThe Northern Military Police Regionheld a change of command parade atthe SA Army College in Pretoria on 30July 2004. Col Khuselwa Inah Gobozahanded over the reigns to ColMzobanzi Justice Macanda. It was thesecond change of command since theestablishment of Northen MilitaryPolice Region.Col Goboza was born at Bedfordon 28 October 1954. Her first employmentwas with the Department ofEducation where she worked as ateacher. She joined the Department ofPrisons, and then integrated into theSANDF in the Military Police Agencyin 1998. She was then appointed as theSO1 Correctional Facilities at theMilitary Police HQ. Col Goboza wasthe first senior African staff qualifiedofficer in the Military Police Agency,as well as the first woman to becomeProvost Marshal. Col Goboza has sincebeen appointed as the SSO Policingand Chief of Staff at the Military PoliceCol Khuselwa Inah Goboza handed over the reigns to Col Mzobanzi JusticeMacanda. (Photo: F Sgt David Nomtshongwana)Agency Headquarters.The newly appointed ProvostMarshal, Col Macanda, joined theCiskei Defence Force in 1986. He startedas an Infantry Paratrooper andlater, in 1989, he became an Infantryofficer. He was later transferred to theMilitary Police. In 2002 he wasdeployed in Burundi during OPSFIBRE as the Second in Command.Col Macanda was the first MilitaryPolice officer appointed to act asOperational Commander.(Article by Lebohang Letaoana)N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R35

eventsA few firsts for ourmilitary police36By Lebohang LetaoanaPhotos: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe Military Police Agencyheld its first flag hoisting andmedal parade, as well as itsfirst-ever prestige event in itspresent format at the militarysports grounds in ThabaTshwane in August 2004.Brig Gen M.J. Ledwaba, the Chiefof the Military Police Agency, said itwas an honour to reward and recognisethe recipients of medals and meritcertificates on this Military PoliceAgency (MPA) medal parade. Medalsand merit certificates have over theages been awarded to soldiers as atoken of gratitude for loyal and meritoriousservice rendered."You are all worthy recipients ofthe medals and merit certificatesawarded to you and I want to urgeyou to wear your medals with pride,"said Brig Gen Ledwaba.Lt Col J. van Zyl received the GoodService Medal (Gold), while six GoodService Medals (Silver) were awardedto Lt Col B.L. Jaji, WO1 B.C. Klopper,WO1 J.C. Klaasen, WO1 A.J.Mohammed, WO2 M. Hamman andCPO I.M. Dennis.WO1 J.R. Masinge and WO2 C.G.Middelton each received the SergeantMajor of the SANDF Merit Certificate.Col K.I. Goboza was awarded both theSilver Service Medal and the BronzeService Medal.However, the MPA flag hoistingand medal parade were not the onlyactivities that took place on that day.There was also the first-ever individualcompetition where members of theMPA in the rank groups Private toMajor competed against each other inthe military subjects of fitness, 9 mmshooting and theory.The results of these prestige eventswere as follows: Maj R.B. du PlessisS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4(MPA HQ) was chosen as the bestmajor. The best captain was R.S.Theron (WMPR HQ), while Lt T.T.Moganyaka (Middelburg MP) waschosen as the best luitenant and thebest warrant officer was W.P. Zikalala(Thaba Tshwane MP). The best staffsergeant was M.J. Motaung (MPSchool) and the best sergeant was A.H.Hurter (Wynberg MP). The best corporalwas M.D.J. Kgomoyadira (Simon'sTown MP) and the best lance corporalwas R.S. Modise (Potch MP), while PteE.M. Cebekulu (Ladysmith MP) waschosen as the best private.The best shottist was Sgt A.H.Hurter (Wynberg MP), while thefittest MP member was Maj R.B. duPlessis (MPA HQ). The best academicwas WO2 M.A. van Loggenberg (PEMP) and the best MP official was MajR.B. du Plessis (MPA HQ).Western MP Region won the soccerand the adventure sport, whileTitans (MPA HQ, MP School and 13PRO COY) won the netball competition.The sevens touch rugby winningteam was that of Southern MP Region.Northern MP Region won the volleyball.Western MP Region was alsochosen as having the overall best MPsporting structure.The overall best choir was that ofSouthern MP Region.Medals and merit certificates have over the ages been awarded to soldiersas a token of gratitude for loyal and meritorious service rendered.Worthy recipients of medals and merit certificates.

Nothing happens inthe worldBy PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaAfter his appointment as DODInspector General, Maj GenVejaynand Ramlakan wantedto find out what his predecessorsdid. This was a difficulttask as no records were available.He was inspired by thewords of Bob Greanleaf: "Nothinghappens in the world except the initiativeof a single man". The idea of writinga book about the DefenceInspectorate started to take shape.Brig Gen Mathys "Tokkie"Strumpher (Ret) was given the mandateto consult widely, but to stick tothe core function of the InspectorGeneral (IG), which is: "to ascertainthe validity and reliability of managementinformation in the DOD in orderto promote accountable, transparent,efficient and effective use of DODresources through inspections, monitoring,internal audits, surveys andoutput evaluation".The hard work paid off when thebook depicting the past disposition ofthe Defence Inspectorate - its historyfrom 1908 to 2004 - was launched atDefence Headquarters in Pretoria on21 July 2004.Maj Gen Ramlakan said he waspleased that Brig Gen Strumpher haddone a splendid job and that this wasthe first official book in the history ofthe SANDF to be published with publicfunds. It consists of short articles onthe IG's history up to 1980, but thesedo not relate to the internal auditinghistory or the IG's real environment inwhich the Inspectorate operated in thepast or in which it is still operating.When a book covers such a longperiod one encounters many structuralchanges in an organisation, especiallywhen there is a new and dynamicdemocracy. To illustrate thesechanges, the book consists of threeparts. Part 1: the period from 1908 toMission accomplished, as Brig Gen Tokkie Strumpher (Ret) hands over thebook to the DOD Inspector General, Maj Gen Vejaynand Ramlakan.…except theinitiative of asingle man.1994, Part 2: the Joint Military Co-ordinatingCouncil (JMCC), and Part 3: thepost JMCC period, including thetransformation and restructuring processesof the DOD, effected by the IG.Brig Gen Strumpher said he wasboth privileged and grateful for havingbeen given the task. He added thatthe extent of the task, which includedmany aspects, was much bigger thanwhat he had expected, and therefore ittook much longer than what he hadestimated. The research, he said, hadbeen both a pleasure and educational.It was a pleasure because it once againbrought him into direct contact withcolleagues, and educational because itrequired him to be acquainted withthe fascinating facts and details of ourcountry's rich military past."Recording the 90-year history ofthe Inspectorate is a formidable task.Many books have already been writtenabout South Africa's defence establishmentduring the apartheid yearsand some have covered the period oftransition. This book has tried to placethe focus on the Inspectorate, whilestill acknowledging the other importantoffices and organisations thatinteracted with the IG. TheInspectorate has had close relationswith other parts of the defence establishmentand their histories are, inparts, inseparable," Brig GenStrumpher said.37N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

insight38Resource ManagementProgrammeBy PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaExternal and internal auditreports have revealed thatinternal control systemswithin the DOD have deterioratedto such an extent thatintervention from managementbecame necessary.To avoid any further occurrence ofmisconduct and improper expenditure,the Accountability ManagementCommittee (AMC) has commissioneda work group to design a ResourceManagement Programme so that thelevel three and four incumbents areorientated regarding their internalcontrol responsibilities.The work group consisting of BrigGen M.C. de Wet, Lt Cols R. Mashele,K. Mpiwa, F. la Grange, Maj K. Boerand Mr P. Motaung was sent as part ofthe Memorandum of Understandingbetween the State Department of theUnited States of America (USA) andthe DOD on an orientation tour to variousmilitary bases in the USA toinvestigate the US DoD Pre-Commandcourses and to develop a similarprogramme within the RSA legislativeframework.The result is the ResourceManagement Programme that focuseson both functional development andwork content training and is designedaccording to the SAQA requirementsto equip both line commanders andmanagers with the necessary knowledge,skills and attitudes required tomanage their resources according tothe Public Finance Management Actand other applicable DOD legislation.The Resource Management Programmewill be conducted in fourphases, ie selection, preparation, residentialand a post-phase. The firstS A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4…Interventionfrom managementbecameinevitable.contact session with the learners wassuccessfully piloted over the period 14to 16 July 2004 at 68 Air School, TekBase in Pretoria and was officiallyopened by the Chief Financial Officer,Mr Jack Gründling. The aim of thissession was to allow the learners tointeract and network with the facilitatorsand with other learners on theprogramme. The concept of the HelpDesk (Kaizan Method) was also introducedto the learners. The residentialphase was piloted over the period 18to 29 October 2004. During this phasethe learners were individuallyassessed on their presentations of rectification/businessplans regardingcase studies that were handed out duringthe pre-phase. This phase alsoincorporated syndicate work on casestudies and was interspersed with lecturesby guest speakers.The case studies are designed insuch a way that they are interwovenwith Integrated Finance, Logistics,Human Resources, Procurement,Military Security and OHS problemsand allow the learners to be in a totallypeer and self-taught discovery situation,and are thus taken on a "journeythrough their areas of responsibilities".During the post-phase, the evaluationof action plans will be conductedwith the assistance of the InspectorateGeneral DOD. This phase will alsohelp determine if the learning programmeoutcome, ie line authoritiesthat are fully committed to theirorganisational mandate to conductlegally responsible and accountablemanagement and control over theavailable DOD resources, wasachieved. This phase will also helpdetermine how the future schedulingof the Resource ManagementProgramme can be improved.Members requesting additionalinformation on this Programme mustcontact the Project Manager, MajKantha Boer, at tel no: (012) 339 5573,fax no: (012) 339 5550 or cell no:072 469 4218.Fltr: Maj Gen Johan Jooste, Chief Director Army Corporate Service,Mr Jack Gründling, Chief Financial Officer, and Brig Gen Garry Malinga,Director ETD, at the function.

Demonstrating air powerBy Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaAir poweris not onlyfirepower...The SA Air Force hosted thebiannual air power capabilitydemonstration at the RoodewalBomb Range outsideMakhado, formerly LouisTrichardt, on 25 August 2004.The demonstration wasaimed at providing a window on thecore capabilities of the SA Air Forceand at the same time the SA Army'sjoint contribution in demonstrating itsvital capabilities in terms of armour,personnel, equipment (both land andair) and the readiness of the SANDF todeal with emergency situations.Local residents came in numbers towitness this spectacular event. Theopening was done by 2 Squadron (twoCheetahs in a simulated attack on athird Cheetah). The best moment ofthe air capability demonstration waswhen 16 Squadron did a flyingdemonstration in a Rooivalk.The aerobatic display was carriedout by a Pilatus Astra, an Impala and aCheetah. They were supported by theSpecial Forces and the SA ArmyArtillery Formation, which wereresponsible for the 120 mm mortarcargo sling and 120 mm motar firing.Air power is not only firepower; itis many faceted and includes not onlythe classical air combat characterisedby fighters, bombers, attack helicoptersand more recently, evenunmanned air vehicles. It alsoincludes the elements of air mobility,which usually take a back seat to firepower,but which are just as important16 Squadron in a Rooivalk flying demonstration.in the campaign as a force multiplierfor ground forces."The recapilitisation programme ofthe SA Air Force is designed to replacethe offensive capability of 250 fighterswith only fifty. As unbelievable as thismay sound, the quality of the newequipment and the capability of thereplacement aircraft will enable the SAAir Force to meet the political anddefence imperatives of Vision 2012,"said Brig Gen Des Barker, OfficerCommanding Makhado AFB. "Airpower is a national asset and the SAAir Force is the proud custodian ofthis asset on behalf of the nation."N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R39

clippingsDepicting various culturesBy Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe SA Army College held its culturaland potted sports day at the Collegeon 13 August 2004. The members ofthe College depicted the different culturesand traditions of the people ofSouth Africa. Nine cultural groupsparticipated in this year's event,namely Coloureds, Xhosas/Zulus,Whites, Tsonga/Venda and Tswana/Pedi/Southern Sotho. Each group hadto prepare its own dish, item, settingof the table and dress code. Thegroups representing Xhosas/Zuluswon the category for Best Traditionand were also the overall winners. Thewinners of the Best Item were thegroups representing Vendas andMembers of the SA Army College depicted various cultures.Zulus/Xhosas. The groups representingthe Tswanas, Pedi, Tsonga andZulus/Xhosas won the Best Attire category.The potted sports consisted ofwheelbarrow pushing, bakkie pushingand egg tossing. The Tsonga groupwon the wheelbarrow pushing sportsitem, while the bakkie pushing waswon by the Coloureds and the eggtossing by the Tswanas.Equal opportunities for all40By Nakedi PhashaPhoto: Cpl Elias MahumaDespite the cold, windy weather therewas a huge turnout at the ZwartkopRacetrack in Pretoria, when theSANDF hosted Casual Day celebrationson 3 September 2004. Invitedguests from colleges for people withdisabilities and society in generalmade it there in large numbers,including children, young adults andthe old.The day was filled with lots ofactivities and entertainment, andeverybody had an enjoyable day, eventhough it felt like Mother Nature haddeserted everyone.The celebrations were opened witha prayer, followed by a performanceby the National Ceremonial Guard, tothe delight of most. "The DOD, in supportingCasual Day, will today withyour presence here again demonstrateto the South African society and disabledcommunity, our commitment inraising awareness about people withdisabilities, their rights, their needs,their potential and their contributionto society at large," said Brig Gen A.S.Somdaka, DirectorEqual Opportunities,in his welcomingspeech.If you are intocars and could notmake it to the celebrations,then youmissed out. Theguests had an opportunityto seecars up close.There was also awheelchair race.Despite thewind, one couldnot miss the smellof "boerewors" andsteak in the air. Itis a South Africannorm; a celebrationis not completewithout abraai. No need tofeel sad becauseyou missed all thisfun at this year'scelebrations; makesure you attendnext year.A smile holds more meaning than laughter, childrenwith disabilities enjoying themselves.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

A Casual Day packedwith funOn 3 September 2004 theDOD Mobilisation Centredeployed a very specialcontingent in the spirit ofCasual Day. The MobilisationCentre was host to 27children and three teachersfrom the Lettie Fouche School for mentallydisadvantaged children.At 09:00 the very exited 'troops'were received at the main entrance ofthe unit by Lt Col Jaco Pretorius, SO1Mobilisation, and the RSM, WO1 JanKoen, and escorted to Veld Kitchen 3in the concentration area. The sight ofa Ratel 60 and three fire-fighting vehicleswaiting in front of the facility andthe festively decorated tables inside,confirmed to the visitors that CasualDay, Mobilisation Centre style, wouldbe fun with a capital letter.After a warm welcome by Lt ColPretorius the 'troops' were handedover to WO2 Gerald Sansom, whowithout further ado explained militaryetiquette and informed the very attentivevisitors that Warrant Officers arerecognised by their being the guyswho can shout the loudest.The visitors were shown a video onthe history of the SA Armoured Corps(courtesy School of Armour) andanother on airborne infantry training(courtesy 44 Parachute Regiment),while feasting on 'ratpacks' containingchocolates, chips, condensed milktubes and cool drinks.The videos were followed by ashow-and-tell briefing on parachutingand parachute equipment by Sgt G.Feni, Sgt M. Ncomfu and L Cpl M.L.Kgobe from 44 Parachute Regiment.Parachutes were fitted and deployedin the brisk Free State wind by the visitors,who had decided that they allwanted to be paratroopers and werepreparing for selection by doing situpsbetween briefings.The visitors were divided intogroups and marched off in differentdirections to practise communicationwith field radios and ground smokesignals. Longing glances towards theRatel and the fire-fighting vehicleshad by now indicated to the hosts thatthe next activity was eagerly anticipated.The visitors were divided intogroups and were driven in the Rateland the fire-fighting vehicles to the A-Vehicle Park of the Centre to viewstatic displays of combat vehicles. Ontheir return to the Veld Kitchen the'troops' were issued with DODMobilisation Centre T-shirts sponsoredby the Combined Club of theunit. Hot dogs and ice cream toppedwith chocolate sauce were served indixies to the children, who cued likethe very disciplined troops they nowwere.At 13:00 very reluctant goodbyeswere said between new friends. KarelGoosen, a pupil from Lettie Fouche,confirmed what all the soldiers frompreceding deployments know: "It's'lekker' in the Army and theMobilisation Centre is the best!"Festivities continued for membersof the unit with 'potjiekos' at the transitstores. Participants were requiredto wear a Casual Day sticker and dressup, down or funny. Israelites, crossdressers,a cowgirl, a sailor andwomen in pyjamas enthusiasticallyentered the competition to determinethe best costume. Cpl I.T. Mojataufrom Facility Maintenance Sectionwon the competition. Lt Col F.W.Schutte, co-ordinator of the day, confirmedthat this community effortwould be an annual event at theMobilisation Centre. (Article by Nickyde Ru, DOD Mobilisation Centre)Mrs S. Janse van Rensburg and Mrs N. de Ru serving lunch to the visiting'troops'.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R41

eventsAIRBORNE AFRICA 200442By Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe biannual Exercise AIR-BORNE AFRICA was officiallyopened by the Chief of theSANDF, Gen SiphiweNyanda, at 44 ParachuteRegiment in Bloemfontein on13 September 2004.This competition was co-ordinatedwith the Africa Aerospace andDefence exhibition 2004 regardingtimings and resources, and wasattended by sixteen different countriesfrom Africa, Asia and Europe. Theobjectives of this exercise was: To build airborne force bridges inAfrica and with countries beyond. To foster goodwill and friendshipamong forces that are committedto peace in Africa. For airborne forces from differentcountries to compete in a competitionthat deals with their core function,viz to conduct airborne operationssuccessfully.The competition started with ahangar demonstration outside 44Parachute Regiment, which includedparachute jumps. Some of the participantswere blown by strong windsinto trees after being dropped by aC130 at 3 000 ft. Only two injurieswere reported on that day: a memberof the Tanzanian Team suffered a dislocatedshoulder and a Malaysianparabat broke his arm when he landedon a rocky outcrop.Addressing the delegates at theopening parade Gen Nyanda said thatsince they first appeared on the sceneparachute troops have been renownedfor their initiative and perseverance onthe battlefield. "A paratrooper has theindelible mark of a combat soldierwith excellent survival skills and pridein undertaking missions impossible.Your participation in this exerciseserves as an inspiration particularly tothe South African youth aspiring tobecome future paratroopers," said GenNyanda.Then the parabats were off to theSA Army Combat Training Centre inLohatlha (Northern Cape) for a gruellingthree-day endurance test. On thefirst day, they did a 30 km route marchand an obstacle crossing. The next daythey competed in shooting, observation,speed marching and casevac. Bythis time some of the teams werealready disqualified because ofinjuries and dehydration. On the lastday they did navigation, grenadethrowing, observation and tactical hiding.Then they had to escape andevade on the same night to return toBloemfontein, where the results of thecompetition were to be announced.At the prize-giving ceremony LtGen Solly Shoke, the Chief of the SAArmy, said he was particularly overwhelmedby the competitive spirit,comradeship and courage projected byall of the participating teams that challengedthemselves par excellence intheir quest for the crown of glory inthis tough military competition.…A quest forthe crown ofglory.Results (out of 500 marks) South Africa (474) India (467) Netherlands (465) Pakistan (457) Botswana (422) Zimbabwe (416) Senegal (412) Tanzania (404)The South African Team won the2004 Exercise AIRBORNE AFRICAcompetition, and their team manager,Lt Hendrik Tigele, said it took a lot ofhard work and determination forthem to win this tournament. "It tookus a year to prepare for this competitionand to select the best guys.Through team spirit and lots of trainingwe succeeded," said Lt KitizaNonketa, the team leader.Fltr: Rfn Herman Smit, Lt Kitiza Nonketa, L Cpl Isaac Mahlangu, Cpl GersoneMuronga, Rfn Mbulelo Mafenuka and Lt Hendrik Tigele (Team Manager) withthe winning trophy.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Celebration timeBy Matshidiso PilaPhoto: PO Eddie Kgomo68 years at 68 Air School - this certainlycalls for a big celebration and membersof the unit could not miss this forthe world. A two day long celebrationwas not bad, they could not have comeup with any better suggestion to celebratetheir anniversary.The celebrations started with acheese and wine function on Thursdayevening, 15 July 2004, and amongthe people who attended were formerOfficers Commanding, Chaplains andRSMs of the unit. Maj Gen E. Dert,Chief Director of Development andSupport, received a token of appreciationon behalf of the Chief of the SAAir Force, from Col W.M. Tilsley, theOfficer Commanding of 68 Air School.The next day was spent in lightervein when visitors came from theAbraham Kriel Children's Home inIt takes real skill to stay on top.Nylstroom. No doubt the children hada fantastic day and they participated inevery sport that was played at thesports grounds with the students of 68Air School.When asked if there was anythingthey would like to share withSA SOLDIER, they said life was goodand these kinds of outings reallycheered their lives.This was not the end of the celebrations.The students could not waitfor the evening, because of the bigbash that awaited them.Air Force members cleaned MarabastadMembers of the SA Air Force HeadquartersUnit rolled up their uniformsleeves and joined employees from theTshwane Metro City Council in cleaningBloed Street in Marabastad inPretoria in August this year, in a bid toencourage communities to take care oftheir environment.Shoppers and taxi commutersteeming the normally hectic BloedStreet in Marabastad showed appreciationfor the joint venture by membersof the SA Air Force and the councilemployees when they cleaned up thelittered area."We want people to understandthat the SA Air Force is not just aboutaeroplanes, but more about workingtogether with the community and celebratingten years of freedom anddemocracy," said Maj I.L. Jones with abroom in his hands.This clean-up campaign, whichoriginated in Soshanguve township,Members of our Air Force rolled up their uniform sleeves and cleanedMarabastad.has been an ongoing project for thepast two years and is expected tospread its wings into other identifiedadjoining areas.It is hoped that this partnership ineducating communities about theenvironment will last for many yearsto come. (Article by Maj M.P.Morake, SAAF HQU CorporateCommunication)N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R43

Worthy ambassadorsBy Lt Col Frans Schoombee,SO1 Internal Comm, SAAFThe Air Force Base Hoedspruit staticdisplay team really proved themselvesto be a worthy part of "TheBastion for Air Power Excellence" - thevision of Air Force Base Hoedspruit.Air Force Base Hoedspruit participatedin the Hoedspruit Flying ClubOpen Day, the Hoedspruit GameFestival, the Hoedspruit BusinessCarnival, the Bush Pilot Air Show, theMakhado Agricultural Show, theLethaba Wow Show and the MakhadoRoodewal Bomb Demonstration. AirForce Base Hoedspruit is very proudShottists in Klerksdorp CommandoBy Cpl Aletta Holtzhauzen,Head Corp Comm KlerksdorpCommandoof the professional and competentshow team under the leadership of 7Air Servicing Unit based at Hoedspruit.The show team distinguishedthemselves as the best. They won adouble gold award at the MakhadoShow and a gold medal with an overallfirst place at the Lethaba WowShow. Most of the time the team operatedwith a minimum of personneland, even more remarkable, the teamconsisted of volunteers. These mentravelled and offered their own time topromote, not only their own Air ForceBase, but distinguished themselves asmost valuable and worthy ambassadorsof the SA Air Force and theSANDF. They have shown a greatexample of service before self, excellencein all they do, dignity andintegrity.The Golden Pride exhibition consistedof the Impala MK II with all itsground support equipment thatdepicted "Fighter Training Excellence",a very important part of the AirForce Base Hoedspruit core business.Air Force Base Hoedspruit and"Fighter Training Excellence" weretaken to the hearts and minds ofapproximately 100 000 of the communitymembers of the Limpopo andMpumalanga regions.44The members of Klerksdorp Commandooften participate in shootingchampionships. The veterans inKlerksdorp Commando were previouslythe marksmen, while the youngstersplay marbles. This year thewhole situation changed. Veteranssuch as S Sgt Renier McMurray andRfn Johan Coetzee can now see theyoungsters collecting medals andprizes too. They join the youngsters,but struggle to keep up with them.During 2004 these youngsters andthe two veterans took part in differentcompetitions and won gold, silver andbronze medals. Sgt McMurray wongold (300 m rapped) at Thabazimbiand Bloemhof in the 300 m category.Rfn Coetzee won a gold medal (snap)in Potchefstroom and a bronze medal(veteran total) in Hennenman. On theother hand the youngster, L CplHannes Scholtz, received fourteenmedals in competing at four differentunits: A gold medal (300 m snap) anda bronze medal (200 m practice) inThabazimbi, as well as a gold medal(200 m practice) and two bronzemedals (100 m rapped and 300 mpractice) in Hennenman. L CplScholtz also received a silver medal(rapped) in Potchefstoom. In LimpopoFltr: Rfn Johan Coetzee, L Cpl Hannes Scholtz and Cpl Antony Claro.he was the overall winner and alsowon four gold medals in the categories200 m rapped, 300 m practice, 300 msnap and 300 m exercise. He alsoreceived two silver medals (100 mrapped and 200m snap) and twobronze medals (300 m snap and 300 mrapped).Another youngster, Cpl AntonyClaro, participated in five competitionsand won nineteen medals: Agold medal (100 m snap) and two silvermedals (100 m rapped and 200 msnap) in Thabazimbi, as well as a goldmedal (rapped total), two silvermedals (200 m snap and 200 mrapped) and a bronze medal (snaptotal) in Bloemhof. Cpl Claro alsoreceived a gold medal (300 m practice),a silver medal (200 m snap) and twobronze medals (day total) inHeidelberg. In Hennenman he wontwo gold medals (100 m snap andshort distance), a silver medal (juniorshot) and a bronze medal (200 mrapped). Cpl Claro also received threesilver medals (junior total, 200 m snapand 300 m exercise) and a bronzemedal (200 m rapped).The biggest achievement of theyear was for S Sgt McMurray to representthe North West Team for the fiftiethtime.S Sgt McMurray, Cpl Jannie Venterand Cpl Claro were selected for theNorth West Team at the GautengSouthern Provincial Championshipsin Heidelberg.S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4

Play soccer whileexpanding friendshipsBy Lebohang LetaoanaPhoto: F Sgt DavidNomtshongwanaThe SANDF hosted the 7thCISM ESALO (Eastern SouthernAfrica Liaison Office)Soccer Championships atThaba Tshwane in Pretoriaover the period 23 to 28August 2004. Six countrieswere invited to take part in this prestigioustournament, namely Angola,Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe,Swaziland and Botswana. For the firsttime ever women's soccer was alsorecognised in this tournament. Alsoinvited were observers from Canada(SLT Laura Sarty) and the USA (CaptJennifer Farina).The tournament was officiallyopened by Maj Gen Mokheti Radebe,Chief Director Military Health ForcePreparation to Human ResourceSupport, who welcomed the guests."The CISM ESALO has been stationedin South Africa for some years and willby the end of this year move toBotswana. "This event comes at anopportune time, during a year inwhich our people and the SANDF celebrateten years of democracy," saidMaj Gen Radebe.The CISM ESALO Games are notonly about football, but also aboutsocial responsibility. The delegatesparticipated in the ESALO marchagainst HIV/AIDS to 1 MilitaryHospital, which was led by the Chiefof the ESALO Games, Brig Gen LindileYam, Director of physical Training,Sport and Recreation.After the march, it was off toSoweto for a cultural tour. The delegateshad an opportunity to visit thefamous Nelson Mandela FamilyMuseum and the Hector PetersonMemorial. They finished the tour bydoing some shoppingat the OrientalPlaza. The playersof Swaziland andNamibia and theobservers went toAtteridgeville toconduct coachingclinics at one of thelocal schools. WO1Caleb Mkhulise,Acting ChairpersonSANDF Football,said: "The reasonbehind thecoaching clinics isto introduce theSANDF to the publicand to exposethe talent we havein the SANDF, aswell as to makepeople aware thatsoldiers have manysporting codes andthey are willing tohelp the communityin any sports."The SANDF donatedtwo soccer ballsto the school.Also present atthe games wasSAFA's Under/20 National Teamcoach, Bobbie Williams. He saidSAFA's role in the SANDF was toassist the coaches to identify players,make recommendations and draw upa programme with the coaches andWO1 Mkhulise for the next threecamps to prepare for the InternationalMilitary Soccer Championships inMali later this year.The South African Women's Teamplayed in the finals against theirneighbours, Swaziland, and beatSwaziland 4-0 on penalties. TheZimbabwe Men's Team was crownedSouth Africa battling it out with Swaziland (SA won 4-0on penalties).this year's ESALO Champions when itbeat Lesotho 2-1."The South African SportsCommission is sincerely thanked forthe most visible interest that the institutionhas taken in recognising sportwithin the military. It was the effort ofthe South African Sports Council(SASC), led by Mr Edgar Mogale, thatensured the commitment and participationof SAFA through Mr Williams.It is heartening to be recognised bythose who matter that we are in a missionfor the country," said Brig GenYam.N O VEMBER 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R45

sportFormer enemiesreconciled with rugby46By Col (Rev) P.J. Oberholzer,Vice-President Selection andTraining SANDF Rugby AssociationThe recent television programmeson the involvementof the SANDF in Burundianrugby broadcast on SABC TVand M Net is the culminationof more than two yearsinvolvement by the SANDF.In November 2001 members of theSA Protection Support Detachment(SAPSD), under the leadership of ColMannetjies de Goede, established arugby development project inBurundi. In 2002 the SANDF RugbyAssociation became involved and adelegation, under the leadership ofCol Pieter Oberholzer, Vice-Presidentof Selection and Training of theSANDFRA, visited Burundi to promoterugby. The other members of thedelegation were Lt Col Riaan vanWyk, a Senior Referee, and Sgt GeorgeJulies, a coach. During their ten-daystay in Burundi in March 2002, coachingclinics and a formal coachingcourse at the University in Bujumburawere presented. The delegation wasalso involved in the coaching of boththe male and female national rugbyteams.The delegation gave guidance atmanagerial level to put rugby structuresin place and advised the localrugby administrators how to runleague and development programmes.A visit to the Deputy Minister of Sportresulted in a commitment to provideland for a rugby field.Since the first initiative, rugby hasbeen growing in Burundi. The numberof clubs has more than doubled andthe standard of play has improveddrastically due to the continuousinvolvement of the different SANDFcontingents. The SANDF, with theassistance of rugby unions and sponsorsin South Africa, has sent balls,S A S O L D I E R • N OV EMBER 2 0 0 4cones, tackle bags, sets of jerseys and aset of rugby poles to Burundi.As a result of the involvement ofthe SANDF in Burundian rugby, thelatter has recently become a member ofthe Confederation of African Rugby(CAR) and received associate membershipof the International Rugby Board(IRB). It has started to compete ininternational competitions under thecoaching of SANDF members. In 2003Maj Jan Barendse was the coach of thenational team. The current coaches ofthe National Team are Capt Os vanden Berg, Capt Willie Enslin, WO1John Young and WO1 Deon Goodall.Internationals against Rwanda andTanzania have already taken place. Aclub league competition named afterCol De Goede has been established.There is still an enormous need fortrained coaches and referees and thefacilities are very poor. There is also anurgent need for equipment, fields andother infrastructure.The SANDF has made an enormouscontribution to the developmentof rugby in Burundi. In the process formerenemies have been reconciled andunified in the same team with a commongoal and objective.Rugby has also played a major rolein improving the acceptability of theSouth African contingent by the localcommunity.The future involvement of theSANDF is an absolute necessity toensure the continuous growth anddevelopment of rugby in Burundi.Good quality competition is essentialfor the improvement of the standardof play. Therefore the SAContingent Team in Burundi shouldkeep on playing against theBurundians. The Burundian NationalTeam should also be invited to theSANDF Rugby Week and if possibleassisted to come, which would be awonderful learning experience forthem.Soldier appointed asBurundian nationalrugby coachOn 29 August 2004 at the BujumburaSports Stadium in Burundi a sponsorshipfrom the Blue Bulls rugby teamfrom South Africa was handed over tothe Vice-President of the BurundiRugby Federation, Mr OscarNduwimana, by Lt Col Owen Dube,who is the Second in Command of theRSA contingent deployed in Burundi.Lt Col Dube was appointed as theChief of Sport for the contingent.Lt Ngcelwane, who is a member ofthe SAMHS currently deployed inBurundi, and detached to the SpecialForces deployed here, was recentlyappointed as the rugby coach for theNational Rugby Federation inBurundi. This is seen as a great honourfor South Africa and we are glad tohave a man of such stature among us.According to the Secretary-General of Burundi, Mr DerweduwenJurgen, rugby in Burundi started threeyears ago and currently has 250 registeredplayers. Although soccer is thenational sport, rugby is developing ata steady pace and he is honoured tohave a man like Lt Ngcelwane as partof the development of rugby inBurundi.In his speech Lt Col Dube said thatit was an honour for the RSA contingent,and more specifically SouthAfrica, to be part of this historic eventand to provide sporting equipmentsponsored by the Super Twelve rugbyteam, the Blue Bulls from SouthAfrica. He also reiterated that it wouldbe a great pleasure to compete at thislevel with players from the RSA contingentagainst the Burundi rugbyteams. (Article by the late Sgt A.H. leRoux, Communication NCO 15 SAI Bnin Bujumbura)

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