June - Department of Defence

eyes, neck and face. New versions of the toy contain batteries to make the toy flash; thesebatteries can tear through the toy easily, posing a choking hazard if swallowed.In June 2005, Illinois became the first state to ban this toy. At the federal level, the CPSCshould ban all sales of yo-yo water balls and similar toys in the United States.LOUD TOYSAlmost 15 percent of children ages 6 to 17 show signs of hearing loss, according to a 1998 studypublished in the Journal of the American Medical Association. In November 2003, ASTMpromulgated a new acoustics standard for toys, setting the loudness threshold for most handheldtoys at 90 decibels; the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reportsthat prolonged exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher can result in hearing damage.PIRG researchers found: Several toys currently on toy store shelves may not meet the ASTM standards forappropriately loud toys. Several toys currently on toy store shelves exceed 100 decibels when measured at closerange.CPSC should enforce the ASTM acoustics standards for loud toys and consider strengtheningthe standards to reduce the sound threshold for hand-held toys from 90 decibels to 85 decibels.Toy manufacturers should go above and beyond the standards and not make hand-held toysthat produce sounds louder than 85 decibels.TOXIC CHEMICALS IN TOYSSome toys can pose hidden hazards, exposing children to dangerous chemicals that are linkedto serious health problems. PIRG researchers found: Manufacturers are selling play cosmetic sets that include nail polish containing toxicchemicals, such as toluene and xylene. Since children often put their hands in their mouths,nail polish applied to fingernails offers a direct route of exposure. Even though the European Union has banned or imposed wide restrictions on the use ofsix phthalates in toys and childcare products, some manufacturers of children’s productscontinue to use phthalates in toys for the U.S. market. Phthalates, a class of chemicals used to“plasticize” or soften otherwise hard PVC plastic material, have been linked to reproductivedefects and other health problems. In response to consumer concern about phthalates, some manufacturers are labelingtheir products as “phthalate-free.” The U.S. government, however, does not regulate the“phthalate-free” label or ensure that products labeled “phthalate-free” actually do notcontain phthalates. To test the reliability of the “phthalate-free” label, PIRG commissionedlaboratory tests of eight soft plastic toys labeled as not containing phthalates. Of the eighttoys tested, six contained detectable levels of phthalates.CPSC should ban phthalates in toys and other products intended for children under five andwork with the Federal Trade Commission to take immediate action to ensure that toysTrouble in Toyland 5

Effective control of aircraftA while ago I took part in ExerciseDRAGON, the main purpose ofwhich was to practise our forcesfor a possible airborne mission intosub-Saharan Africa.This exercise took place from 24 to28 February in the training area of 6SAI Bn, Grahams-town. Aspects suchas air-assault landings, watercrossings and heliborne assaultswere tested.Although I believe we do not havethe aircraft to conduct a large-scaleoperation, I realise now that once thedoctrine is in place we will beprepared for whatever may happenin the future. We can always buythe aircraft, but getting the doctrinein place is not that easy.To get there, however, we have toprove the concept works, so I willventure as far as to say that until wehave executed a successful missionwe will be fighting all the way againstthe naysayers.It is more than carrying gunsBroederstroom Commando held afunction for the local learners inMarch 2004, which was organisedby Sgt Motholo, the communicationofficer of the Commando.Other guests were representativesfrom Spoornet and the Department ofWelfare, who brought clothes for thechildren as gifts and they alsoarranged a braai for that afternoon.Both parties were inspired by a youthcamp, which was presented to thelocal farms' youth by BroederstroomCommando in July 2003.It was my first experienceI now share the views of a rathersmall group of people who believe inthis new concept, not only for interventionmissions into Africa, but alsoon the home front. We do not knowwhat will happen in ten years. If weare attacked, our defence will relyheavily on a highly mobile type ofwarfare.Who better to spearhead this thanthe airmobile forces. We can delay ordestroy flanking forces and, togetherwith the mechanised forces, surpriseand destroy this possible futurethreat.One of the most important pointsto remember about airmobile forces istheir fast turnaround time. We canproject force over a very wide theatre,attacking two forces within hours.Those of you who are still unsure ofthe feasibility of this new doctrineshould perhaps consult your trainingmanuals again and look up the basicsconcerning the principles of the attackattending an occasion for youth fromdisadvantaged communities.The weather was very bad. I wasvery touched, especially when I sawsome of the children in tatteredclothes and some not even wearingshoes.I planned to ensure that all commandosunder command of Group 15follow the same route in contributingtowards disadvantaged communities,and that being a soldier is not allabout carrying guns -Capt G.S. Nyezi, SO3 CommunicationOfficer Group 15 HQ.R200-00 prize for the best letterSA SOLDIER welcomes letters to the Editor. Short letters are more likely to bepublished, and all letters may be edited for reasons of style, accuracy or spacelimitations. Letters should preferably be typewritten and double-spaced. Allletters must include the writer's full name, address and home telephone number.The volume of letters we receive makes individual acknowledgement impossible.Please send 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 tosasoldier@mil.za. We would like to hear your comments or ideas, particularlyabout matters affecting members of the Department of Defence. Regrettably,anonymous letters cannot be answered officially or published - Editor.and of war. Note things such as"offensive actions", "surprise" and"the maintenance of morale".Look what happened during"Operation Thunderbolt", the Israeliraid on Entebbe, Uganda, to rescuetheir nationals who found themselvesthere after their aircraft had beenhijacked.They achieved success because ofsurprise and national pride andmorale went sky-high. Good luck tothose who are pioneering this newconcept and who understand that theairmobile concept is not just an airtransportoperation, but the effectivecontrol of aircraft and being able tothink at 250km/h -Capt W.G. Klokow, 6 SAI Bn.Woman and childabuseBoth women and children are victimsof this terrible tragedy. This is whathappens any time, anywhere. It hurtsso much to see women and childrentreated as though they are not partof society. This is caused by humanSatanism and hatred. It will mostlikely see women and childrenturning into hobos and street kidsbecause of physical and sexual abuse.It is immoral to see men doing this totheir families or loved ones.Abuse inhibits the victim's feelingand emotions. The victim becomesmentally weak. Mostly they feel sickat heart, alone, afraid and powerless.If someone's life has been filled withabuse for a long time, that personreaches a point where he or she nolonger feels anything. Nothing seemsto matter anymore. Nothing seems tohurt. It is a disgrace.It is terrible to live in a world thathas turned into a heartless monster.Fellow Africans, let us be ashamed ofourselves.Let us show love. Let us showthat we are a caring nation. Let us notabuse our women and our children.Let us fight against their abuse -Rfn T.J. Motlokoa,Harrismith Commando.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R7

Are we that short-staffed?Today I witnessed something ratherodd in the Naval Dockyard inSimon's Town. Call me old-fashioned,but I felt it my duty, as a WarrantOfficer and gentleman, to enquirefrom two Able Seamen SWANS(female sailors) why they were taskedwith what seemed to be heavylabour. Let me explain: A ten-tontruck was parked at the ChapmanSouth Recreation Hall, fully ladenwith plastic chairs. The two SWANS,petite as they were, including aLeading Seaman (male), who Iassumed was the driver, constitutedthe labour force responsible for theloading. Upon my approach andenquiry, I was told that they weremembers of the ship's company (SASDRAKENSBERG), stores section, andthat it was their job as storekeepers totransport and load these chairs andreturn them to the ship. They wereactually tasked by their commanderto do so. These two females were soexhausted I could not help but feelsorry for them. Surely, despite manyan argument that women in the DODare given equal opportunities, and assuch should tackle any job at hand, Istrongly believe that a person in managementshould use his commonsense and initiative to delegate tasksto members who are suitable for thetask at hand.Any "buffer" on a ship wouldgladly spare a few "hands" in assistingwith the unpleasant task which, Ifeel, though they may be sailors, theyare still women. No wonder the abuseof women (and children) is nowadaysthe norm. As I said… are we thatshort staffed? - WO2 T.S. Fish,Simon's Town.* Cdr Susan Denman, SO1 HRPlans at the Navy Office providedthe following comment - Ed:"Thank you for your letter andyour concern for your fellow sailors.The SA Navy's approach to EqualOpportunities is stated in theAffirmative Action/Equal Opportunitypolicy. In layman's terms this meansthat everybody has a choice. Thisdoes not mean that women shouldtackle any job at hand, but that theycould do so.However, you are quite right, asmanagers we need to ensure that oursubordinates are not utilised abovetheir physical, or other limitations andthey should have enough trust in usto speak up if need be. Unfortunatelythe SAS DRAKENSBERG is currentlydeployed and we could not refer thematter to the Commander for input.By the way, there are no SWANSin the SA Navy. The abbreviation ofthe South African Women's AuxiliaryNaval Service, SWANS, is no longerin use.”Keeping up with international trends8Just a few suggestions regarding uniforms,in keeping with internationaltrends.Firstly, the US and Europeanarmies have added to their uniform(for some time now) smallstripes/bars worn on the lower leftsleeve of the service dress (step-outs).Each bar denotes three (four in theUS army) years of service in thearmed forces. (Refer to pictures inany history book of GeneralEisenhower.)The stripes are the same colour asthe stripes of the NCOs, usually yellow.When red stripes are added theydenote service in combat or overseas.The old Union Defence Force hadsuch a system during World War II.This, if introduced, will be worn withpride by members of the SANDF forall to see the years of dedicated servicethey have given to their country.A different colour stripe could beadded, denoting years of service inthe armed struggle.Secondly, the British and Austrianarmies have, as we have now adopted,bars to service medals. Theirs,however, are the service medal for 5Years of Exemplary Service and a barfor every five years after that up toforty years' service. Why not adoptthe same system of years in theSANDF. Come on - reward someonewho has been an example for fiveyears. This will make the medal moreobtainable and will serve as an inspirationto do better, knowing that onedoes not have to wait for ten years forone medal and another ten years forone bar - Sgt John Mathubane, email.* Lt Col Eddie Watson, SO1Heraldry at DOD Heraldry Sub-Directorate, commented as follows - Ed:"Sgt Mathubane is quite correctwhen he states that a number of foreignarmed forces manifest good conductor long service on the uniform ofa rank by means of chevrons, stripes,stars or by some other means.It is also the case that combat serviceis normally indicated by means ofanother colour used to manufacturethe device, as compared to peacetimeservice.The Sub-directorate Heraldryhas a number of reference worksthat illustrate this practice as it isimplemented internationally.It is, however, not generally thecurrent practice within the DOD toadd anything to the standard uniformto indicate good service for a periodof less than ten years. The soleexception is that the SA Navy still hassuch a system of good conductchevrons in place for petty officers orbelow.The question of changing theperiod of service before a memberreceives a service medal or barpossibly warrants consideration. Thiswould mean, however, that the subdirectoratewould have to deal withmedals and decorations as thewarrant authorising the award of the"Troue Diens Medalje" would have tobe redrafted. Any such change wouldalso have to receive Presidentialapproval.I trust this information is adequatefor your needs. Colour copies ofmaterial illustrating this matter can besupplied if needed."S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

We must dealwith lawbreakersIt is a pleasure to me as a proudSouth African to voice my sadness,frustration and confusion about thehigh crime rate; crimes are takingplace every second in our belovedcountry. All the peace-loving SouthAfricans celebrated their freedom in1994 with dignity and an aspirationfor their future, knowing that at lastthey were going to live a free life.Great strides have been made in areassuch as housing, basic education andaccess to primary health care so thateverybody can live a better life in thisbeautiful country of ours. We havethe most enabling laws you can thinkof on a range of issues and I believethere is still more to come.Notwithstanding the country'sachievements, I am very frustrated bythe level of crime, which has reachedan unacceptable level. South Africahas become a haven for crime syndicatesbecause criminals are takingadvantage as they think that it is theirright to break the law, having alsovoted. In addition, our Constitutionis more concerned about the criminals'rights than those of law-abidingcitizens. As we are all proud of ourrainbow nation, I think if we can allstand up and work together byassisting the soldiers and police andreporting all the crimes that we see,we can cure this disease. That will beour first clear national strategy todeal with this problem, and with thehelp of the community at large, andthe Government, I believe we willthen have both the capability andcapacity. The unfortunate thing isthat we are going to experiencevigilantism if nothing is done and, asit is, people have had enough. I urgeall peace-loving South Africans to say"Enough is Enough" and go out thereand do away with crime because wefought so hard to be where we are.Let us not forget that what we harvestin our minds we will manifest inour lives. To those who are addictedto breaking the law I say - you mustchoose to live your lives in peace orchoose to live your lives in pieces -Rfn P.H. Damente, Grahamstown.Building links across SADC bordersOur organisation, the MUASADefence Support Committee (MDSC),would like to thank you very muchfor sending us the SA SOLDIERmagazine, and the new 2004 calendar,they are so educative.After you sent us more informationabout the SANDF through yourmagazine, SA SOLDIER, our executivecommittee called a Lekgotla to discusscurrent issues raised in the magazine,and it came with an initiative tolaunch a new direct project, whichwill support the SANDF, lobby,advocate and promote it within ourcommunities and the government.Hence we renamed the MuasaSafety and Security to Muasa Defencecommittee. Ms Pienaar, our projectsupport Project Phoenix is aimed atrejuvenating and transforming theReserve Force of the SANDF.I would like to quote Maj Gen RoyAndersen: "Although Project Phoenixis showing pleasing results, a lot stillneeds to be done in the area of recruitment,training and transformation toensure a guaranteed representativeand combat ready Reserve Force.Plans are, however, developed toensure that we succeed."Let me quote Maj Gen M. KeithMokoape again: "We stand on theverge of sluice gates about to open.Charity begins at homeLately I have noticed that otherGovernment departments areadvertising through their personneldepartments, eg T-shirts and caps,which their personnel wear duringcasual events.Why does the DOD not do likewiseas I have noticed that such itemsare only used as souvenirs, mostly byforeigners? I think we have to berealistic: charity begins at home.I know an obvious questionwould be the budget, but then whynot sell this clothing, making it acompulsory task for all members andThe passion of yesterday is going tobe harnessed, without compulsion, topopularise the army as an institutionfor discipline and honour, not just forthe sake of it, but precisely because itis an instrument for the defence forour earth and our surroundings.Workers and the people in the countryside,should as one, master the artof Defence, and should the enemycontemplate attacking, they shouldnot hesitate and must not allow theenemy to attack." What powerfulwords from the Major Generals.Our organisation will lobby veryhard within our communities tomake sure these two Major Generalswords are turned into reality. Ourorganisation will come on board asMaj Gen Mokoape invites us, as civilsociety, to act collectively to populariseour army.We would also like to sayfarewell to the former Chief ofDefence Reserves, Maj Gen IanDeetleefs.Lastly, we would like to offer oursincere condolences to the family ofthe Minister of Defence, Mr MosiuoaLekota, whose mother passed away,may her soul rest in peace - Meshack"Smokey" Mei, Executive Co-ordinator,Muasa Projects and CommunityDevelopment, Naledi, Soweto.employees? Besides, a lot ofsecond-hand material/goods (exceptuniforms) are sold to the publicwithout our knowing about it. Whynot inform us? We also want tobuy them.It is actually easy because theDOD can introduce an accountingsystem for its members. I mean, weare all aware that Governmentdepartments cannot compete withprivate incentives. In a way thiswould be another incentive to upliftthe morale of the members of theDOD - S.P. Mashaba, Soshanguve.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R9

clippingsDeceased soldier decoratedIt is not an everyday scenario tocommemorate deceased memberswith medals. The General SupportBase Ministry of Defence (GSB MOD)had such an opportunity at a medalparade held at the Armscor sportsground in Pretoria on 31 March 2004.Men and women were celebrated whohad exceeded themselves over theyears in the SANDF. They were honouredfor their devotion and excellentservice. The wife of the late Pte EssauM. Motloung, Mrs Martha Motloung,attended the parade with all the otherrecipients to receive the Good ServiceMedal (Bronze) on behalf of her latehusband. The Officer Commanding ofthe GSB MOD, Col Jan Theron, handedthe medal to a very proud andstrong wife. The late Pte MotloungMrs Martha Motloung, the wife of the late Pte Essau M. Motloung, andCol Jan Theron, Officer Commanding GSB MOD.was a member of the ProtectionServices at the GSB MOD for twoyears. It was an honour to commemorateMrs Motloung on behalf of herMay their souls rest in peacehusband. We trust that his dedicationwill carry over to his offspring.(Article by Lt Chimoné Lambrechts,SO3 Corp Comm GSB MOD)1214 April 2004 was a sad day for the SANDF, South Africa and the entire nation when the bodies of the deceasedsoldiers arrived in our country. Members of the Defence Force and the families of the deceased were gathered atWaterkloof Air Force Base and watched in sorrow when the deceased arrived. Six South African soldiers lost theirlives while serving in the peacekeeping operations in the DRC at Goma. The deceased soldiers had drowned in LakeKafu when their Casspir swerved off the road and accidentally fell into the lake. They will be remembered for the goodwork that they did in representing the country during the peacekeeping operation. The names of the soldiers who losttheir lives are: Sgt Mashape Frans Maake, Cpl Sello Christopher Pilusa, Rfn Joseph Samsonyane Bauque, Rfn TirhaniSolomon Rikhotso, Rfn David Chewe Raphasha and Rfn Mamet JA Hendrick Marakalala. The six deceased soldiersreceived a full military or semi-military funeral, depending on what their families requested.(Article and photo: Sgt David Nomtshongwana)S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

A statue was erected tohonour their heroic deedsBy Lt Col P.M. Motlhabane,SO1 Opcom 46 SA BrigadePhoto: WO2 C. JordaanIn the spirit of humanity (ubuntu)and comradeship 46 SA Brigademembers extended their invitationto families of the memberswho passed away while on activeduty in the brigade. The wreathlayingceremony was held on 16April 2004 as a tribute to the fallenmembers of the brigade, who hadbeen called to higher duty. The ceremonycan also be viewed as a genuinemilestone for the brigade, whichforms part of the greater achievementduring the ten years of democracy.The General Officer Commanding(GOC) 46 SA Brigade, Brig Gen J.N.J.Roets, in 2003 unveiled, the brainchildof WO1 W. van Onselen viz a statueof a Roman soldier at the entrance tothe brigade. The GOC 46 SA Brigadeled the brigade in an age-old traditionthat started at the beginning of theChristian era when heroic elementswere introduced into history.Monuments and statues were erectedfor those who had performed heroicdeeds, and therefore the unveiling ofthe statue of a Roman soldier at theentrance to the brigade is a breakthroughthat enhances ubuntu.The statue of the Roman soldier inthe brigade conveys a message to anyperson, whether military or civilian,who enters its premises, that membersin uniform at some stage wereand are still part of the Defence Forceand will be remembered by ournation in a spirit of devotion. Thisspirit is in line with the Greek andRoman school of thought in erectingmonuments.This enhances the comradeship ofthe brigade which forms a defensivesociety as seen in their motto: "Shieldof the Nation". This society aspires tobe recognised as an interwoven unitin life, sickness and in death. Thecontribution of these members to thesuccesses of the brigade will beremembered every year with thismomentous ceremony, and theirloved ones will recognise how themembers touched the lives of theircomrades in this special ceremony.The ceremony consoles thebrigade members and the bereavedfamilies and friends. It enhances thefeeling of gain in loss by its placatorynature. The synopsis of the ceremonycommenced with the posting of sentries.Then followed scripture readingand prayer by Cpln B.L. Johnson, theChaplain of 46 SA Brigade, who readfrom Psalm 103: 11-16, followed bythe Last Post, the Reveille, wreathlaying,and the National Anthem.Among other highlights of thisceremony was a speech by Brig GenRoets who used the scripture readingas his point of departure. He statedWe willrememberthem.that this ceremony coincided with thebirthday of the brigade and that itwas in line with the tradition of thepromise of the brigade to honour thefallen last year. He ended his speechby thanking all the participants andpresented the bereaved families withceremonial tokens as a compliment.The roll of honour commencedwith the tributes of:94682515NA Lt Col P.D. Nkosi.80544364NA Maj O.J. van Vuuren.94069472NA F Sgt S.L. Peege.94839776NA Sgt K. Motsiri.84703792NA Cpl S.M. Matseliso.96839907NA Cpl M.D. Tebello.82711433NA Rfn E.M. Mpiyakhe.84809045NA Mr L.P. Molekwa.Wreaths were laid at the statue of the Roman soldier at 46 SA Brigade.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R13

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eventsUnited as a nationBy Nomonde VuthelaPhotos: Sgt David Nomtshongwanaand PO Eddie KgomoIt is done! President Thabo Mbekiis president yet again. ThaboMvuyelwa Mbeki, son of the lateMr Govan and Ms EpainetteMbeki, took the oath to serve thenation with everything he has gotfor the next five years to come.27 April 2004 was a good day toinaugurate the one who is "God'sanointed", may he be blessed withwisdom for he carries on his shouldersan entire nation.Our President was born great,born to lead. Later in life greatnesswas thrust upon him for his presidencyhad come, ready or not. It is a factthat former President, Mr NelsonMandela, handed over the reigns toMr Mbeki, his heir apparent wellbefore stepping down.And then of course PresidentMbeki undeniably achieved greatness- Mr Mandela's silver slippers werealmost impossible to fill; yet, in the2004 national elections, PresidentMbeki took the country where it hasnever gone before.What a victory!Lettingfreedom shinethrough.The world came to the UnionBuildings in Pretoria; people werebussed into the driveway of the massivestructure as early as 03:00, beforedawn. Ten years into our democracyand there was a certain urgency andfever about making it to the UnionBuildings. The inauguration bee had(Continued on page 16)15Above: Thundering echoes from the 21-gun salute marked the beginning of more history to be made.Left: On the red carpet, front to back: President Thabo Mbeki and the First Lady, Ms Zanele Mbeki, usheredto the podium by Gen Siphiwe Nyanda (the Chief of the SANDF), Lt Gen Godfrey Ngwenya (Chief CJOPS) andLt Gen Gilbert Ramano (Chief of the SA Army).J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

(Continued from page 15)Members from the SAHMS give a helping hand to formerPresident, Mr Nelson Mandela, with his wife, Ms Graca Machel,following at his side.Capt (SAN) Kesaval Naidoo (right) and Col EllenRiekert were the two senior officers who acted asaides-de-camp to the President.16stung the nation; those who could notmake it beyond the walls of thisfortress happily picnicked against itsfences. The many that did not get toPretoria faithfully watched theproceedings on television.The nation and South Africa'snumerous friends from far beyondour borders witnessed PresidentMbeki take his oath. Representativesfrom foreign countries attended theinauguration, including heads ofstate and royalty. Also in attendancewere parliamentarians, businessmen,representatives from civil society,other dignitaries and the SouthAfrican masses in full force.In his address President Mbekisaid that it was almost impossible toimagine a non-democratic SouthAfrica. He also said, "South Africabelongs to all who live in it, blackor white."Vowing to complete work alreadyS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4started President Mbeki said, "Thework to create a country that wasdemocratic, peaceful, non-racial, nonsexistand prosperous had alreadybegun and would continue into thesecond decade of freedom". ThePresident continued: "The struggle toeradicate poverty has been and willcontinue to be a central part of thenational effort to build a new SouthAfrica." The President also stated thatSouth Africa would continue to play avigorous role in achieving the goal ofan African Renaissance.If it did not dazzle or stand out,then it was the wrong outfit for theoccasion: there were all kinds of hatsto suit all types of faces. The crowdseated on the lawns of the UnionBuildings was a spectacular sight,closely resembling the inside of ananthill. Everything was systematicallyarranged, so that there were veryfew hitches.But most of all a party is not aparty without the South AfricanNational Defence Force. The SANDFbegan, drove and ended the celebrations.The organisation has become acelebrated ice-breaker, every other actsimply follows suit.Our safety and security forceswere on full alert throughout the day.The whole of Pretoria was a no-flyzone. Various roads were closed offto ensure the safety of everyonecelebrating this momentous occasion.Wetting the large crowds' appetiteand bringing them to an excitedfrenzy in preparation of thePresident's arrival, the NationalCeremonial Guard did a short number,as if to say, "hear ye, hear ye".Altogether 21 motorcyclists of theMilitary Police escorted PresidentMbeki to the Union Buildings.Leading the four Chiefs of thedifferent Services, the Chief of the

SANDF, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda,guided his team and ushered thePresident and our First Lady,Ms Zanele Mbeki, onto the podium.The action was later repeated whenMr and Ms Mbeki left the ceremony.There was a resounding echo likethunder when the 21-gun salute wasfired after the President took his oath,which announced the beginning ofmore history to be made. Then threeSANDF Oryx helicopters eachcarrying big national flags, carriedout a flight in salute over the UnionBuildings in honour of PresidentMbeki. Then a fly-past of ten PilatusAstra training aircraft depicting afigure "10" formation followed.Thereafter a Cheetah fighter jet paintedin the colours of the South Africanflag did a fly-past.Altogether 4 000 soldiers representingall four Services of theSANDF, including Reserve Forcemembers, as well as several militarybands, formed part of the activities onthis historical day.The SANDF further demonstratedits allegiance to our Commander-in-Chief by means of a military paradedown Church Street. The demonstrationof power included a cavalcade ofarmoured vehicles, while in the skyabove aircraft from the SA Air Force,such as the Rooivalk attack helicopters,flew past. What an impressiveshow of fire! Col André Retief,Officer Commanding of the School ofArmour, talked the whole nationthrough the military parade duringthe live broadcast on SABC2.Occasions such as these can nevertake place were it not for the manypeople who work behind the scenes,eg members who worked odd hoursat Waterkloof Air Force Base toreceive all the dignitaries flying infrom all over the world, and securitypersonnel, drivers and militarypolice stationed at their posts at alltimes. Last but not least, SouthAfrican Military Health Servicepersonnel were deployed toguarantee an instant response to anyhealth hazards.All this from a nation that seeks tomake democracy a part of SouthAfrican culture with President Mbekiat the helm.In perfect tune.Military presence at the inauguration.Motorcyclists of the Military Police escorted the President.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R17

eventsSouth Africa goes tothe pollsBy Nomonde VuthelaPhotos: Sgt David NomtshongwanaWhile the different partieswere preoccupied withcampaigning for the2004 National Electionsthe Mobile DeploymentWing was at anadvanced stage ofmaking sure that everything wentsmoothly with the power supply.Free and fair elections start with thoroughpreparation; that is why F SgtBert Oberholster and Sgt Frans vander Merwe, under the command ofCol Chris Delport, hauled the 400KVA cabin mobile power supplygenerator a week before the electionsto the IEC Centre in Pretoria. Thatwas to make sure that if there was apower failure, they would be able toprovide the whole centre with power.The two power generators wereintended as a back-up to provide theIEC Centre with power, and a thirdgenerator was placed at ElectionHouse in Sunnyside. This was similarto what had happened in the 1999elections.What distinguished the morningof 14 April 2004 from any othermorning is that all South Africanswere of one mind, namely to go andvote. Only on rare and incrediblyspecial occasions can an entire nationhave a single goal for the day. SouthAfricans have proved to be a conscientiouspeople, a nation that hasinternalised the joys of living in ademocratic state.Soweto residents woke up to thesounds of helicopters hovering above.They were circulating around theIn support ofthe country'sdemocraticprocess.area and making sure that there wereno obstacles between the voters andthe voting stations. In a Soweto villagewhere I stood at a street cornerwatching people go by, movementwas in one direction and goingtowards a local school where thevoting booths had been placed.Voters walked leisurely towardsvoting stations, chatting along withouta care in the world. Yes! This is anew South Africa, nice and easy, and18Patient voters standing in long winding queues at the Pretoria City Hall.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

Front, right to left: Pte Laban Huma, Sgt Louis Sathekge andSgt Enock Makoso waiting and ready to cast their votes.to keep it that way citizens went tothe polls in large numbers. We havebecome mature and patient voters.Voting took place from the earlyhours of the public holiday till late atnight or well into the early hours ofthe following morning in extremecases. Those who were unable to voteon the 14th had cast their special voteon the eve of the election.Col Koos Liebenberg, SSOConventional Operations at theDivisional Headquarters of the CJOPSresponsible for conventional operations,who handled big events anddisaster management, was one of thevery few people who voted on the13th.While everybody went to the pollsCol Liebenberg was part of theSANDF body that was to providestandby support for the South AfricanPolice Service (SAPS) throughout theelection period. All SANDF membersdeployed on standby during electiontime were able to cast their specialvotes on either 12 or 13 April."The Defence Force's responsibilitythis year for elections and alsoduring the two registration weekendswas basically to be on standby insupport of the SAPS," said ColLiebenberg. The SAPS is the mainrole player in regard to safety andsecurity.According to Col Liebenberg,because of the low level of violenceand the very stable threat scenario inSouth Africa, the SANDF took thedecision not to deploy physically."We planned then on different contingenciesand it was decided that weshould have two infantry battalionson standby," continued ColLiebenberg. The two battalions were21 Battalion in Johannesburg and5 SAI Battalion in Ladysmith, onfour hours standby. Members of theSAMHS were on standby to providemedical support if and when needed.Two immobile companies, a companyfrom 6 SAI Battalion and theParachute Regiment in Bloemfontein,were also placed on standby. "If therewas a problem anywhere in thecountry, then it was possible for theDefence Force to intervene anddeploy," stated Col Liebenberg."We also had a number of vehiclesplaced, pre-positioned throughout thecountry. There was enough air supportin the form of helicopters andC130 aircraft to deploy and redeploy,"Col Liebenberg said. On theday of the elections and the day after,every commando in the countryphysically deployed a section insupport of the SAPS in the "outerperimeter" context."There was never ever at anypolling station a problem reported tous," said Col Liebenberg. "It wasnever necessary to deploy; I thinkour elections went well, althoughone company from 5 SAI Bn wasdeployed late on the evening of14 April in KwaZulu-Natal in supportof the SAPS," concluded ColLiebenberg.Lt Col Nicky Maphosa at JointOperations Tactical HQ GautengProvince at Doornkop Military Basein Johannesburg, also cast his specialvote on the eve of the elections.Speaking to SA SOLDIER ColMaphosa explained why he was busyon the day of the election.He said, "Fourteen members fromeach Area Territorial Reserve unit orcommando were deployed from 13 to16 April to safeguard the elections."Joint Operations Tactical HQGauteng Province has 24 AreaTerritorial Reserves (ATRs) sectionsunder operational command."The planning was joint with theSAPS in all seven areas of Gauteng,starting from the provincial level andup to area level," mentioned Lt ColMaphosa. "It went very well thanksto the joint planning and the nonproblematicstructures that were inplace; the Deputy NationalCommissioner of the SAPS alsocommended everybody," he added."All our members were purelydeployed in assistance to the SAPSand the IEC to make the electionperiod a success," emphasisedLt Col Maphosa.The SANDF was also involvedduring the elections in the joint structures,such as the Joint Operationaland Intelligence Structures, theNational Joint Operational Centre,the National Joint OperationalCommittee, the Provincial JointOperational Committee and the AreaJoint Operational Committee. Thesejoint structures were comprised of theSAPS, the SANDF, the IEC, the NIA,the NICOC and other relevant roleplayers. Although the SAPS was thelead department regarding safety andsecurity, each department hadautonomous line functional commandand control of own elementsdeployed.When he spoke to SA SOLDIERPte Laban Huma said that he wasonly interested in exercising his rightto vote. Sgt Louis Sathekge said hehoped that the Government wouldcreate more jobs and prevent crime.Sgt Enock Makoso agreed with him.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R19

eventsWelcome to ourthink-tanksBy Matshidiso PilaPhoto: Sgt David NomtshongwanaThis was not the first inaugurationin the history of theGenerals of the SA Armyand certainly not the lastone. But it is indeed the verylast one to be honoured bythe presence of Lt GenGilbert Ramano as the Chief ofthe SA Army.This event was held in theParatus Club at the SA Army Collegein Thaba Tshwane on 22 April 2004for the inauguration of twenty-oneGenerals."For better or worse, it is requiredof you to act as a role model tosubordinates. Do not fail yoursubordinates. Lead from the front,"said Lt Gen Ramano.Looking back, one could say thatwe have made major strides in creatinga new Department of Defenceand, especially a new SA Army. LtGen Ramano said: "It was not an easyprocess when we started way back inApril 1994 at Wallmannsthal. Tentswere set alight and many people werekilled. It was no joke," said Lt GenRamano. "It was a very difficult timein our military history and many ofyou will recall the pain we had to gothrough to make integrationa success."The Chief of the SA Army continued:"Today we can look back andsay that what happened was notsomething insignificant, but it was anLead fromthe front.event that has laid a solid foundationin the creation of a democracy inour country."Lt Gen Ramano advised theGenerals that the military Code ofConduct and the value system of theDOD should be the anchor intheir lives."You have reached the topmanagement echelon of the DOD andas such you are now part of adistinguished group of the pride oflions. I therefore urge you not to failthe SA Army, but to do all in yourpower to strive for ultimate excellence,"Lt Gen Ramano concluded.20The twenty-one Generals who were being inaugurated with Lt Gen Gilbert Ramano, the Chief of the SA Army (middle,front), and WO1 Edward Sykes, the Sergeant Major of the SA Army (far right, back).S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

Strengthening relations with foreignersBy PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: Sgt David NomtshongwanaThe 2004 Joint Senior Command andStaff Programme (JSCSP) conductedat the SA National War College hasseven international students fromUganda, Germany, Rwanda,Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya andNigeria. The Chief of the SANDF,Gen Siphiwe Nyanda, signed aMemorandum of Understanding withvarious defence forces to permit anexchange of students and instructorson military courses as a means ofexpanding relations with defenceforces of other countries.Defence Foreign Relations officiallywelcomed the international studentsto a function held at the SANational War College on 17 March2004. The guest of honour wasBrig Gen Michael Mdletye, DirectorBrig Gen William Nkonyeni, the Commandant of the SA National War College(middle, front, with a Madiba shirt), and the international Directing Staff andinternational students.SA Army Human Resources, whowished the international students apleasant stay in South Africa.He explained the importance ofdefence forces of the world workingtogether, specifically in this era inwhich the world is threatened by thescourge of international terrorism.A representative of the internationalstudents reciprocated by assuring theGeneral that they were already settledin and were looking forward to experiencingmore of the South Africanhospitality.Union members explore militaryunits in KwaZulu-NatalBy Matshidiso PilaEvery year Directorate DefenceCorporate Communication on behalfof the DOD fulfils its communicationaims and objectives. Thus a visit tothe various military units in Durban,KwaZulu-Natal, was scheduled and agroup of representatives of labourand trade unions was invited for atwo-day visit on 11 and 12 March2004. This was to create an opportunityto inform the guests about the roleand tasks of the DOD, as well as togive them a comprehensive overviewof the SANDF's capabilities.For the very first time in thehistory of the union's visits the Chiefof the SANDF, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda,addressed the delegation and wishedthem well on their departure fromWaterkloof Air Force Base to Durban.He told the delegation that theyshould go and witness the role thatthe SANDF played in Durban andhow transformed the organisation hasbecome. Gen Nyanda also told themthat while they were visiting the variousunits they should acknowledgewhat the units were doing so thatnext time when they see the DefenceBudget they should not think it is toomuch. With the blessing of the twoGenerals the trip went well, and thefirst unit that they visited was AirForce Base Durban. Acting OfficerCommanding AFB Durban, Lt ColG.C.L. Barr, welcomed the delegationand presented an overview of thestructure and described the role of theunit. Thereafter Group 10 was visited.Col J. Blaauw, the OfficerCommanding of Group 10, did apresentation for the visiting group.The unit is totally involved withProject Siyandisa, which is to empoweryoung black people from the community.Area Military Health UnitKwaZulu-Natal (AMHU KZN) wascongratulated on the good work thatthey were doing and their involvementwith the Phidisa and Batho Peleprojects. According to the representativesof the unions AMHU KZN,under the command of Col A. Mbiza,was rated as the most transformedunit in Durban.The last unit to be visited on thefirst day was the Natal Carbineers, aReserve Force unit in Pietermaritzburgunder the command of Lt ColK.M. Lowe. Afterwards everybodywas invited for a tour around themuseum and for snacks.The next morning was marked byvery cold and rainy weather, but thisdid not affect the visit, and just whenthe people were adapting to theweather, the SA Army Band Durbanwarmed everybody up with goodmusic, which certainly got everyonecarried away. This all happened atNaval Station Durban where the delegationtook a maritime tour in navalcraft around Durban harbour. Thelast two pit stops of the visit were atthe Naval Armament Depot Durbanand the Strike Craft Training Centre.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R21

eventsInternal auditors maintainhigh ethical standards22By PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: PO Eddie KgomoThe Inspector General of theDepartment of Defence (IGDOD), Maj Gen VejaynandRamlakan, awarded the IGDOD Proficiency Badge totwenty-seven members ofthe Defence Inspectorateduring a parade held at the LibertyLife Building in Pretoria on 2 April2004. The members have professionallydemonstrated their adherence tothe principles and rules of conduct ofthe Institute of Internal Auditors.The Code of Ethics serves to promotean ethical culture in the professionof internal auditing. This code isfounded on the trust placed on theobjective assurance regarding riskmanagement, control and governance.Internal auditors are expectedto maintain high ethical standardsand uphold the principles and Rulesof Conduct of the Institute of InternalAuditors. The symbolism of theS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4Inspector General Proficiency insigniaconsists of three parts, namely: The golden sword is a symbol ofmilitary power and representsjustice and military honour; The golden fasces are composedof a military axe, which symbolisesthe execution of military duty,and is enclosed in a bundle ofwooden rods tied together with astrap. It was historically a symbolof the authority of Romanmagistrates and today representscivil authority; The silver or chromed leaf wreathties the sword and fasces togetherand is a symbol of academic andintellectual achievement.The motto of the DefenceInspectorate is ‘Vigilans’, which is aLatin word denoting the quality andcharacter of being watchful, alert andcircumspect in closely monitoring asituation. The colours of the DefenceInspectorate are black, gold andsilver. Gold represents elevation ofmind, silver represents sincerity andMaj Gen Vejaynand Ramlakan, the Inspector General DOD, congratulatesR Adm (JG) Dr Gerhard Engelbrecht at the IG DOD Proficiency Parade.They mustcorrect many…black represents constancy.Officiating in this milestone event,Maj Gen Ramlakan said the DefenceInspectorate had come a long way ineventually having an approved symbolthat displays the authority vestedin each of the inspectors, auditors andforensic investigators. This willculminate in activities that provideindependent, objective assurance andconsultation, which add value andimprove the operations of the DOD."With this, we seek to continuepromoting an ethical culture in theprofession of internal auditing andinspection, objective assurance aboutrisk management, control and governance.Rules of conduct that describebehaviour norms expected of internalauditors are an aid to interpretprinciples into practical applicationsand are intended to guide the ethicalconduct of internal auditors."Furthermore, internal auditorsare expected to apply and uphold theprinciples of integrity, objectivity,confidentiality and competence,"added Maj Gen Ramlakan.He added that the wearing of theproficiency caduceus can only beachieved once there is a sufficient academicexperiential qualification withan appropriate ethical commitment."As the Inspectorate Organisation,we have to provide the DOD and therest of the South African people withobjective assurance about the realvalue added in defence. This is ourtrue purpose, aim and responsibility.My sincere congratulations to all ourrecipients of the 'Vigilans'. Accept thechallenge of wearing the IG caduceuswith pride. Honour it with thequality of your work performance,"concluded Maj Gen Ramlakan.

Democracy is indeedaliveBy Matshidiso PilaPhoto: Sgt David NomtshongwanaYou will be surprised whatten years of democracymeans to people. Yes, peoplenow have rights and thereare many privileges to enjoy.To them it is not just aboutthe different rights that areavailable to enjoy, but the hardtimes they have been through up totoday. You should have seen peoplecelebrating ten years of freedom at1 Military Hospital in Thaba Tshwaneon 2 April 2004. The morale was veryhigh and the integration betweenthem was amazing.Altogether thirteen departmentsof the hospital entered the competitionto celebrate ten years of democracy.The 10 Years of DemocracyCommittee was chaired by Maj KarenStander. Each department decoratedand demonstrated how they interpretedand understood ten years ofdemocracy. The three judges: BrigGen Aubrey Sedibe, the CommandingOfficer of 1 Military Hospital, ColVeronica Burger from the InspectorGeneral Office of the SAMHS,and Lt Col Mpho Sibanyoni fromthe SAMHS CorporateCommunication Nodal Point,evaluated the competition.Do you remember toyi-toyi? Doesit not bring back many memories?Surely bad ones too, but fortunatelythis one was not about bad memories.It was about celebrating ten years ofdemocracy. All the members of thevarious departments that participatedin the competition toyi-toyied to thelapa of the hospital were the winnerswere announced. No matter howtough the competition was, as one ofthe judges confessed, at the end of theday the best group had to win.The Department of Nursingwalked away with the third prize ofR200-00 with their amazing demonstrationof Democracy at Seas. Theyhad a small Masibambisane pot symbolisingthat all people were nowunited and that all their differenceshad been cooked away in the pot.The second position was sharedby the Department of PatientAdministration and the Departmentof Chaplains. The two groups eachwon R300-00. The Department ofChaplains celebrated Ten Years ofChristianity in Democracy and PalmSunday. The Logistics Departmentwas awarded the first prize of R500-00. Capt Nokuthula Qwabi, SO2Logistics, said she knew they weregoing to win because they coveredeverything from strikes and beggarsto persons with disabilities. Theywere very creative, especially withtheir impersonation of formerPresident Nelson Mandela, whodelivered his speech after his longwalk to freedom.A surprising category for the day,something nobody expected, was the"Best Effort of the Day Award", whichwas awarded to the Depart-ment ofOccupational Therapy. Brig GenSedibe said it was to thank theMembers toyi-toying to the lapa of 1 Military Hospital.toyi-toyi forfreedom.members of this department theirefforts considering that no matterhow busy they were, they still managedto come up with somethingamazing. Capt Cecilia Sello, OccupationalTherapist of the Department ofOccupational Therapy, admitted thatthis prize came as a surprise, but itmade them proud and will keep theirmorale high. "I think we reallydeserve it," she said. They won aplastic rake. Do not laugh, it is somethingthat they can definitely use.Mr Solomon Malewa, a cleaner inthe Department of Physiotherapy,said that he started working at1 Military Hospital in 1982 and tenyears of democracy was somethingreally to be celebrated. Looking backat what they went through before1994, he said life was tough and oneneeded to be strong and havepatience to survive the situation. BrigGen Sedibe was very impressed withthe interaction between the membersand said that democracy was indeedalive.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R23

eventsTaking over the reinsHe believes insuccess.26Brig Gen Luvuyo Nobanda (foreground) and Brig Gen David Masters.By Lt Seani Neluheni,SO3 CommunicationSA Army Engineer FormationPhoto: Sgt Eddie SmithBrig Gen Luvuyo Nobandatook over command of theSA Army EngineerFormation as the GeneralOfficer Commanding fromBrig Gen David Masters.The change of commandparade was held at the Military BaseDunnottar on 30 January 2004.Brig Gen Nobanda firmly believesin success as the basis of every individual'sprivate life. He also specifiesdiscipline and personality as importantin a portrait of how people dress,talk, behave and perform tasks. BrigGen Nobanda urged people not tolose their focus and always to understandthe reason for their existence.He also urged people to refrainfrom stealing Government propertyS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4as a way of enriching themselves. Hebelieves in loyalty, trust and communication.The Engineer Formation isone of the largest contributors of soldiersbeing deployed for externaloperations to Burundi and theDemocratic Republic of Congo. Inspite of Brig Gen Nobanda's shorttime at the Engineer Formation, hehas already had to bid the Sappersfarewell who risk their lives in supportof the Government's initiatives toensure that there is peace in Africa.Brig Gen Nobanda was born on 18June 1959 in Ngqeleni in the EasternCape. He matriculated in 1977 atChief Henry Boklein High School. Hecompleted a B Admin Degree atUNISA in 2002. He joined the TranskeiDefence Force (TDF) in 1978, andwas commissioned as Second Lieutenantin 1980. Thereafter he served at1 Transkeian Battalion as a PlatoonCommander in the Mounted Platoonand was later transferred to Infantry.In 1981 he joined the Transkei SpecialForces and, after successfully completingthe selection course, he wasappointed as Troop Commander atGroup 1. In 1988 he became Second inCommand of the Special ForcesRegiment. In 1990 he was promotedto Lieutenant Colonel and served asthe Officer Commanding SpecialForces Regiment (TDF) until 1993.In 1994 he was appointed SSOTraining in the TDF and was laterappointed Deputy Director SpecialForces. After integration Brig GenNobanda was transferred to SpecialForces Brigade in Pretoria. From 1998until 2001 Brig Gen Nobanda servedas a military attaché in Gabon.On his return from Gabon heserved as SSO Strategic Control in2002 at the SA Army Office until 2003.He was promoted to Brigadier Generaland appointed as General OfficerCommanding SA Army EngineerFormation on 1 January 2004.Brig Gen Nobanda completed allthe relevant military courses successfully,viz Officer Cadet, AdvancedTraining Course for Junior Officersand Platoon Commanders at theTranskei School of Infantry. He alsocompleted the Special Forces SelectionCourse in 1982, the Infantry WeaponsCourse in 1983, the CompanyCommanders Course in 1984,Parachute Dispatchers Course in 1987,the Parachute Instructors Course(Static Line Instructor) in 1988, theJunior Staff and Warfare Course at theSouth African Naval College in 1990,the Senior Command and StaffCourse at the Ghana Armed ForcesStaff College (Accra) in 1993, theJunior Command and Staff Course in1996, the Junior Command and StaffPractical Course, also in 1996, theSenior Command and Staff Course in1997 and the Executive NationalSecurity Programme in 2001.

Children enjoyinga military campBy Lt Col Julanda Coetzee,Air Force OfficeMakhado Air Force Base(through the efforts of 515Squadron and associates)has hosted an Air Forcecamp for children withdisabilities for the pastseventeen years.The camp started with three childrenin 1987 and grew to 72 childrenin 2003, almost doubling the numberin 2004 with 140 children attending.The children included a wide spectrumof boys and girls representingall population groups of SouthAfrica.The idea of the camp was to createan environment for the childrento express their physical abilities andexperience the life of a "soldier".This year's camp was held from10 to 14 March 2004. The programmeincluded, among other things, a flipin an Oryx helicopter, military dril,morning "PT" sessions, adventureskills, musketry training, animal andnight sounds, bundle sport activitiesand self-defence.The camp culminated in a medalparade, where each learner received amedal, and recognition was givenin selected disciplines through theawarding of trophies. Teachers fromthe respective schools assistednineteen dedicated instructors andmembers from 515 Squadron, andthe results obtained by these specialchildren often amazed all involved.Feedback from teachers, who havebeen involved with the camp for upto ten years, included only successstories.A new attendee teacher remarkedthat the camp opened his eyes to acompletely new approach towardsthe children. He was amazed at thephysical strength the children displayedand that their involvementwith other children boosted theirself-esteem.The instructors taught the learnersto come to attention, to march out ofa squadron, to halt, to salute, toreceive a medal, to salute again andthen to march back to the squadron.For most of these children this wasmore consecutive action to rememberthan what they have ever beentaught, yet they achieved it withsuccess.What the exact recipe for thesuccess is, is still to be determined,but surely the team activity and thechanged attitudes of the instructorsplayed a role. Since the camp hasalways been directed towards the funand participation of the children, nospecialist psychological evaluation orobservations were obtained. It has,however, been suggested that a psychologistobserver be invited to thenext camp to provide some specialistChildren taking part in group sport.Receivinglearners’salutes ...advice on improving the learningopportunity for the children."In this Air Force where you areeither a 'Captain' (wearing gold rankinsignia) or a 'Sergeant' (wearing bluerank insignia) as the learners interpretthe ranks, I had the proud honour ofreceiving some of the learners' salutesand I have to confess, it made alasting impression in my life," saidLt Col Julanda Coetzee.A word of thanks is due to Lt ColJurie Davel, his team and everybodythat contributed to making these fewdays the tremendous success thatit was.Information regarding disabilitymatters in the SA Air Force may beobtained from the following offices:Air Force Office, Lt Col JulandaCoetzee, at tel no: (012) 312 1019; orAir Force Office, Capt Nosi Gcanga,at tel no: (012) 312 2421; or DisabilityEquity Section at the DOD, Mr KobusSwart, at tel no: (012) 355 5972.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R27

Never ever fail to tryBy PO Dennis NdabaPhoto: Cpl Elias Mahuma"You have been appointed because of your personalabilities and performance. Take the challenge, follow thefootprints of your predecessor and make a success of yourtime at the DOD Technical Service Training Centre." Thosewere the words of Brig Gen Schalk van Schalkwyk, GeneralOfficer Commanding JSB Garrisson to Col Nehemia "Oupa"Bapela, when he officiated at the handing and taking overparade at the DOD Technical Service Training Centre on10 December 2003. The post had been left vacant after thepassing away of Col Dirang Phakalane.Col Bapela was born on 21 March 1965 in Evaton (VaalTriangle), Gauteng. He started his schooling at AtlehangPrimary School in 1971 and matriculated at Tshepo ThembaHigh School in 1982. He later enrolled with TechnikonNorthern Transvaal (Soshanguve) in 1983, where hestudied chemical engineering until 1985 when he left thecountry.He answered the call to join the military wing of theAfrican National Congress, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK) inLesotho in September 1985 and left for Angola, where hereceived his basic military training. In 1987 he was selectedto obtain a diploma in mechanical engineering in the USSR(Ukraine) and completed it with honours in 1991. ColBapela has had various responsibilities in MK, includingthat of Officer Commanding of the camps in Tanzania, untilhe was called back to the RSA in January 1994 to join theNational Peacekeep-ing Force (NPKF) in Bloemfontein. Hewas there until its demobilisation in June 1994. Col Bapelaintegrated into the SANDF in June 1994. He did all his militarycourses, the latest being the Joint Senior Command andStaff Programme (JSCSP) in November 2002.Handing over thesword of commandBy Maj M.P. Morake,Corp Comm SAAF HQ UnitThe SA Air Force Headquarters Unit held a change of commandand medal parade at the Air Command in Pretoria on2 April 2004. Brig Gen P.N. Sibiya handed over command toLt Col R.F. van Wyk, and presented twelve medals to AirForce members.Brig Gen Sibiya thanked them for their continuous goodservice and encouraged them to lead by example and showmembers that they were eager to share their experiencewith them or those in need of such experience.In reflecting on the past year Brig Gen Sibiya said it wasa challenging and a busy year filled with great opportunitiesand outstanding achievements. She said that it wassometimes difficult to look back on a path already travelled,and even more so to convince oneself of the importantachievements and challenges that still lay ahead. The unitwent through some changes during the past couple ofyears, the latest being in 2003 when the name changed fromAir Command Unit to its present name of SAAF HQ Unit.Brig Gen Sibiya handed over the sword of command toLt Col Van Wyk and requested the members of the unit tosupport the new Officer Commanding professionally so asto achieve the goals of the unit. She expressed the necessitythat the members adhere to the motto of the unit: "GloriaSine Labor Nulla", no glory without labour.Maj Gen C. Gagiano, Chief Director Air Policy andPlans, Maj Gen N.J.L. Ngema, Chief Director NationalAviation Academy, and various senior officers attendedthe parade.28Fltr: Brig Gen Schalk van Schalkwyk, General OfficerCommanding GSB Garrisson, Col Nehemia Bapela andWO1 Mario Martin Ragovan, RSM DOD TechnicalService Training Centre.Brig Gen P.N. Sibiya handed over the sword ofcommand to Lt Col R.F. van Wyk.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

Foundation securelyguards your benefitsBy Maj Elize Lizamore,PRO and Communication OfficerSA Army FoundationThe year 2004 started off like aG6 gunshot with the SAArmy Foundation's restructuringprocess in full swing,the cessation of theFoundation's co-operative,Sakhile, as well as the handingover of office by General ManagerBrig Gen Reg Deyzel (Ret) to Maj GenKeith Mokoape (Reserve Forcemember).It is therefore a pleasure to givemore detailed information about theactivities mentioned. Owing todecreasing numbers in the SA Armyand the cessation of the trading wingof the Foundation's co-operative,Sakhile, it was felt necessary for theSA Army Foundation to restructureits organisation in order toconcentrate its operational activities.The restructuring of the SA ArmyFoundation will produce and ensuremore sustainable and caring servicesat all times for its members and theirloved ones. Achieving a sustainablecaring service structure for membersrequires dedication and hard workfrom each and everyone at the foundation.The SA Army Foundation is,as always, committed to serving itsmembers in the spirit of Batho Pele toachieve higher standards of livingand quality of life. Members can restassured that all their benefits are stillin-tact and securely guarded underthe umbrella of the SA ArmyFoundation.After ten years as the skipper ofthe SA Army Foundation Brig GenDeyzel officially retired on 31 March2004. He started his military career atthe SA Army Gymnasium and attendedthe Military Academy in Saldanhawhere he obtained the B Mil degree.Having been in the service of theSADF for thirty years, includingOfficer Commanding of several units,for example 10 Anti Aircraft Regimentand Artillery School, as well asDirector Planning of the SA Army,he became General Manager of theSA Army Foundation in April 1994.As from 1 April 2004 the GeneralManager's chair has been filled by MajGen Mokoape, who holds a B.Sc. andMaster of Management degrees. Hewas Chief of Intelligence of the ANC'sMaj Gen Keith Mokoape.military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe.Maj Gen Mokoape qualified as amanager in developmental studies inthe fields of co-operatives and ruraldevelopment at the Pan-AfricanInstitute for Development in Zambia.After chairing the Drought ReliefProgramme of the IndependentDevelopment Trust in 1992, he joinedNampak, Africa's largest packagingcompany and became Nampak's firstdirector of Corporate Affairs.In 1998 Maj Gen Mokoape establisheda black empowerment consortium,Katleho Linkages, consisting ofthe Returned Exiles Association, theSoweto Chamber of Commerce andIndustries and the women's groupLibambeni li'ngashoni. Maj GenMokoape is the Chairperson ofLog-Tek Engineering Solutions andCyberSim. Prior to his appointmentas Chief Director of Army Reserves,he was Co-chairperson of the ReserveForce Council and also became in2002 the Chairperson of the tradingwing of the SA Army Foundation'sSakhile Co-operative.The SA Army Foundation hasachieved another goal - its new logo.The new logo, in the form of the"Pride of Lions", is in line with therestructuring of the SA ArmyFoundation. The decision to adopt anew logo was recommended by theSA Army Foundation's Board ofControl and approved by the ArmyCouncil on 1 March 2004. It is thereforesignificant that the foundationpresents its new logo after a decadeof South African democracy.The outgoing General Manager,Brig Gen Deyzel, expressed his gratitudeto all the members for their loyalsupport and wished them the verybest for the future. The foundationis looking forward to a prosperous2004 under the new leadership ofMaj Gen Mokoape.Contact the SA Army Foundationfor further information on theservices, products and benefits of theSA Army Foundation at tel no:(012) 673 9440/1 or visit theSA Army Foundation's website at:www.@army-foundation.co.za.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R29

insightOur Navy boasts of itssuccessful women30Articles and photoscourtesy Navy NewsAnumber of journalists salliedout into the ships and officesof the SA Navy in Simon'sTown to examine life in thispreviously maledominatedenvironment and asked thewomen in Naval uniformfor their take on their place in theSA Navy.Leading Seaman Pretty Nkosimatriculated in 1994 at UmlaziCommercial High in KwaZulu-Nataland joined the SA Navy in 1997. AfterBasic Training she went to WarfareSchool, where she passed seamanship,electronic warfare and theCarbillan Course, which resulted inher becoming a qualified radar operator.She is currently working in theS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4Situation Room, preparing for andmonitoring the movement of navalships."I find working in a maledominatedenvironment not a problem, butvery motivating because I want toexcel! I have to disagree with the generalisedand unscientific conclusionthat women are psychologicallystronger than men, it all depends onthe particular individual one is dealingwith." Leading Seaman Nkosi didagree, however, that men are generallyphysically stronger than women.To Leading Seaman Nkosi, theSA Navy is not just a source ofincome, but also an institution wherematurity in all aspects of her life isnurtured. Her biggest dream is to bean officer and to ensure that herdream is achieved, and to this endshe is now studying FinancialLS Pretty Nkosi (right) and LS Judeel September in the Situation Room.Serving at sea.Management through the PeninsulaCollege.Asked how she felt about servingunder a female Officer Commanding,she replied, "For representivity purposesit would be good, but there isno guarantee that it wouldnecessarily be better".To young women outside theSA Navy she says encouragingly:"The SA Navy can be your home,especially if you pass matric withmaths, science and English"!Exercise self-disciplineAble Seaman Jeanette Wrigleyjoined the SA Navy in 2002. SinceBasic Training she has worked onboard the SAS GALASHEWE as astoker in the mechanical department.She was motivated by her mother,who has always been supportive ofher pursuing this career. AbleSeaman Wrigley says that as the SANavy is in fact a maledominatedenvironment, she sees it as an idealplace for women to establish themselves.Although she feels that bynature women are psychologicallystronger than men, she also feels thatthis places a responsibility on womento show their male counterparts howto use their physical superiority constructivelyrather than destructively!She was quick to add that she doesnot find working in a field dominatedby men a problem, as her colleaguesare most helpful and supportive.Able Seaman Wrigley's face shineswith vision and a commitment towhatever she does. She intends to goon to obtain a degree some time inthe future because, as she says, "The

SA Navy of today requires highlyeducated women". Her advice toyoung women wanting to join theSA Navy is to exercise self-discipline,particularly in view of HIV/AIDS.LS Annelize Heyster is a Gunner'sYeoman aboard SAS OUTENIQUA.S Lt Kerstin Pitterman joined theSA Navy in 1998."It is important because once you areinfected no institution can effectivelyemploy you, no matter how goodyour qualifications are." She pointedout that for her, a job in the SA Navyis important because it exposes her topeople with different skills. In addition,she has had the opportunity totravel to different places, which hasbroadened her horizons. Herphilosophy in life is - failure is notfailure, but a step towards greaterachievement."Let go the anchor…"Leading Seaman Annelize Heysteris a Gunner's Yeoman aboardSAS OUTENIQUA. Only the secondfemale to complete the gunnerycourse, her initial challenge was thephysical exertion required for thisoften harsh work. As a woman,Leading Seaman Heyster receivedno concessions or special treatment.With five years of naval experience,training and sea-time, LeadingSeaman Heyster has three sailorsunder her supervision. She also usesthe phrase: "Let go the anchor…",masterfully directing her crew of riggers.Her expert performance of thistricky, dangerous job has earned hermuch respect among the crew. She ishappy and fulfilled doing what shedoes best, being a sailor."Get what you give and givewhat you get!"S Lt Kerstin Pitterman joined theSA Navy in 1998, and completed a3-year B Mil (BSc) degree in NauticalScience and Military Technology atthe Military Academy. After threemonths' of Basic Training and ninemonths of Officer's Training atGordon's Bay, and becoming a combatofficer, she now serves on thestrike craft, SAS GALASHEWE, asOfficer of the Watch under training -standing the bridge, navigating andmaking sure the ship is safe.Her next goal is to get her BridgeWatchkeeping qualification, whichwill mean her type endorsement(Strike Craft Badge). When the patrolcorvettes arrive, her horizons willexpand even further.When asked her philosophy in amaledominated environmentS Lt Pitterman said that it is to have asense of humour. "If not, you willnot survive the ship. We rag eachother, but it is all in a good spirit.If you have the right attitude and arewilling to work, you earn the respectof others. Make sure you can getwhat you give and give what youget!"No room for mistakesYoung Namibian born CombatOfficer (Wet), S Lt Nicci le Roux, iscurrently serving on board the SANaval support vessel, SAS OUTENI-QUA. Looking for a challenge, shejoined the SA Navy after completingher matric (maths and science beingessential). She completed her B MilDegree at the Military Academy atSaldanha.S Lt Le Roux says that there isno room for mistakes. "It can costyou the ship and the lives of yourshipmates. You need to have a coolhead, relevant skills and the capacityto pay attention to detail underany circumstances."It is an awesome responsibility fora petite young woman, and one she iswell aware of. S Lt Le Roux hasserved on SAS OUTENIQUA foreighteen months and loves her lifeat sea.Taking a ship out to seaLeading Seaman Motsai fromTzekera Park in Johannesburg is awoman who dreams of taking anSA Naval ship out to sea. She joinedthe SA Navy three years ago. Thissailor says she feels that there are notenough women at sea and she wouldlike to encourage more women to joinand serve on board the ships.She will never forget her firstdays on board a strike craft when shewas terribly seasick, but as thetelecommunication operator (radio),she had to force herself to get welland communicate in order for theship to sail. She works easily with themen on board and appreciates thesupport they give her - not as awoman, but as a colleague.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R31

insight32More than a militarythreatBy Capt Sethu Lubisi, Centrefor Military Studies, GautengBranch, University of StellenboschPhoto: Sgt Mercia EngelbrechtCentral to the NewPartnership for Africa'sDevelopment (Nepad) isthe development of people -human development. AsSouth Africa is one of theprincipal drivers of Nepad,it will be to the advantage of theregion if its strategic neighbourhoodcan follow suit and embrace thehuman centred notion ofdevelopment.Although light conflict cannot beruled out, a most probable short andmedium-term scenario for theSouthern African DevelopmentCommunity (SADC) region would bethat of severe starvation and disease(especially malaria, tuberculosis andHIV/AIDS) in most states (ie Angola,the Democratic Republic of Congo,Lesotho, Mozambique, Swazilandand Zimbabwe), if not the entireregion. This means that in the shortand medium-term future the regionwill have to brace itself for a totallydifferent war - a humanitarian crisis,which is even more deadly.Unemployment and a shortage offood easily lead to high levels ofcrime and a soaring incidence of diseaserespectively. Crime and diseasemake people insecure and result inmass human migrations. This couldfurther plunge the region deeper anddeeper into a humanitarian crisis ofstarvation.The current socio-economic situationin the SADC region (ie Angola,the Democratic Republic of Congoand Zimbabwe), is unacceptable andclearly shows that the humanitarianS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4threat is even more pressing than themilitary threat. The entire regionneeds to embrace the security conceptbeyond its military definition, and totake into account the modern notionof a human focus. It is only in thisway that any possible regionalhumanitarian crisis can be overcome,if not prevented. As far as humaninsecurity in the region is concerned,Angola and Zimbabwe are two casestudies in insecurity, which are dealtwith briefly.AngolaAngola's civil war claimedthirteen million lives. Although thewar might be over, the country is sittingon a time bomb. According to theUnited Nations DevelopmentProgramme, since the end of the war(brought about by the death of JonasSavimbi in February of 2002) nearlyone hundred people have been dyingevery day of disease and starvation.…ahumanitarianthreat isimminent inthe SADC.Nearly three million people in thecountry are dependent on food aid,less than forty percent of the populationhas access to safe drinking water,sixty percent of the population livesbelow the poverty line and lifeexpectancy is only 44 years.According to the BritishBroadcasting Corporation's Africanetwork, about 70 000 Angolans areamputees and another 30 000 minevictims. On top of this, malaria andmalnutrition are hitting the poor populationof nearly eleven million. Butironically, social services and health

spending by the government accountfor a mere two percent of the totalbudget in a country where twelvepercent of the population is HIVinfected and a third of the populationis displaced. According to the HumanRights Watch, US $4bn in oil revenues,which vanished between 1997and 2002, cannot be accounted for, letalone traced. Angola used to be thefourth largest coffee producer in theworld, but now has less than threepercent of arable land under cultivation.These facts paint a bleak pictureregarding the country's future. Someobservers think the worst is yet tocome as they feel this oil-rich countrymay spiral back into civil war.ZimbabweSocio-economically Zimbabwe isfailing and resembles its otherAfrican counterparts like Liberia,Sierra Leone and Somalia. Had thecountry conducted a transparent landre-distribution based on economicgrowth and food security, this wouldhave stimulated international investorconfidence, something the countryurgently needs for economic rescue.The country is slowly heading forcollapse and delays in this regardincrease the waves of mass action andcivil disobedience. At the moment thecountry's unemployment is soaring atseventy percent, while the country'sinflation stands at 599 percent.Unabated levels of crime and foodshortages are reaching unacceptablelevels. From a humanitarian perspective,this is not good news for theregion, particularly South Africa.Firstly, this does not make SouthAfrica a secure country for foreigninvestment. In 2003 the ZimbabweResearch Initiative found that SouthAfrica was paying dearly for the crisisin Zimbabwe - it found that the costto South Africa (2001-2003) wasR15bn and nearly 40 000 jobs (ie dueto a mere 1,3% growth in grossdomestic product, instead of 3,2%),and also on account of the negativeeffect the crisis had on the Rand inthe same period. The effect on theSouth African real economy comesthrough reduced South African goodsand services exports, unacceptablelevels of crime, a drop in tourism, andZimbabwe's failure to service its debtOur protection in the Eastern CapeBy Maj Merle Meyer,SO1 Communication,SA Army Infantry FormationDuring the late 1940s a convener forthe commandos was required and theAlgoa Group consisting of Albany,Humansdorp, Uitenhage, Kirkwood,Jansenville and Port Elizabeth wasestablished.On 6 June 1969 Group 6 wasformally established in the old SouthEnd Base and by 1988 it was a fullyfledgedgroup with six commandounits and three Citizen Force units. InSeptember 1991 Group 6 moved tothe Algoa Military Base. Today fifteencommando units from areas as farapart as East London, Aberdeen,Middelburg, etc falls under thisgroup. A landmark in Port Elizabethis the Algoa Battery situated on theGroup 6 grounds. The need for a batteryobservation post was identifiedin 1940. This observation post formedpart of the forte observation poststhat were built in Amsterdamhoek,Seahill (Cape Recife peninsula) andSchoenmakerskop. All the observationposts consisted of a doublestoreybuilding with a flat roof thatcould be reached with a steel ladder.The Algoa Battery, as it wasknown, has free-form parapets surroundingthe flat roof, angle buttresses,wing walls and traces of camouflagepaint on the fish-scale plasterwalls. These features are designed tobreak up the straight-line appearancefrom the sea and air and to blend it inwith the bush landscape. Group 6 hasmanaged to preserve the battery andplans to establish a small coastalartillery and military museum in it.As Group 6 is situated in PortElizabeth's Golden Mile it maybecome one of the popular attractions.The commandos of Group 6have been very active in 2003. Theyprovided protection during the ICCto South African companies such asEskom (R80m) and Telkom (R60m).International investors will also beconcerned about a possible similarimitated "land-grab" culture by thedesperate and landless people of thiscountry.Secondly, the country willstrongly feel the strain severely asZimbabwe is slowly collapsing; thiscountry will be the first stop forZimbabweans. This will bring alongincreased crime, food shortages andthe spread of disease among SouthAfricans, thus crippling the localeconomy.The challengeThe challenge facing the SADCregion, therefore, in the light of thetwo mentioned examples, ie Angolaand Zimbabwe, is to focus on humansecurity threats and not only onmilitary threats or military issues.The fact is, the humanitarian crisis inthe region is serious and is likely toexplode at any time and, if takenlightly, can devastate the entireregion and take years to repair thedamage.World Cricket Competition and everyyear they support the SAPS to ensurethat tourists visiting this beautifulpart of the country have a safe andenjoyable holiday.The present Officer Commandingof Group 6 is Col Richard Majola. His08:00 tea is a discussion and feedbackevent, which has ensured that it isone of the best informed groups inthe Infantry. In 2003 during theroadshow to the area by the Chief ofthe SA Army, Lt Gen Gilbert Ramano,Col Majola indicated that thecommandos were very active incurbing stock theft, preventing attackson farms and ensuring that the areawas safe.The Group's emblem carries thepicture of an elephant, a well-knownsymbol of the Eastern Cape. Themotto is "Don't Assume" and like theelephant do not assume that it isfriendly: it is dangerous and veryefficient.33J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

34eventsClimbing the ladderof academicsBy Alpheus DzivhaniPhoto: PO Eddie KgomoFlorence Nightingale is mostremembered as a pioneer ofnursing and a reformer ofhospital sanitation methods.Unknown to many, however,was her use of new techniquesof statistical analysis,such as during the Crimean Warwhen she plotted the incidence ofpreventable deaths in the military.Soldiers called her "The Lady-in-Chief" because she played a vital roleon their behalf as a banker to remitthe men's wages home to theirfamilies. The spirit of FlorenceNightingale, "The Lady-in-Chief",continued to live on at the Diplomaand Pledge of Service Ceremony ofthe SAMHS Nursing College, inassociation with the University ofSouth Africa (Unisa). The ceremonytook place on 3 March 2004 atUnisa in Pretoria.Cpln V.P. Nkonyane opened theceremony with scripture reading andprayer while Maj Gen M. Radebe,Chairperson of the College Council,welcomed all the guests of honourLet the oil of knowledge and of love always ensure thatyour lamps burn brightly.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4and well-wishers. Lt K.T. Zuma, theChairperson of the LearnersRepresentative Council (LRC) ofSAMHS Nursing College, who wasnominated as Poet of the Year for2004 by the International Society ofPoetry, ushered the recipients to thestage with a multi-lingual poem.Gone are those days, whensoldiers where seen to be selected byvirtue of their physical strength whilenegating or ignoring their mentalability. Members of SAMHS NursingCollege showed that they had drunkfrom the fountain of knowledge whenthey received their diplomas, certificatesand trophies and also pledgedto serve in the enhancement of healthtransformation in the DOD and theRSA in general. Gauteng HealthMEC, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, extendedwarm congratulations to the graduates."The unique function of thenurse is to assist the individual, sickor well, in the performance of thoseactivities contributing to health or itsrecovery (or to a peaceful death) thathe would perform unaided if he hadthe necessary strength, will or knowledge,and to do this in such a way asto help him regain independence asFlorenceNightingale'slamp burnson…soon as possible," said Dr Ramokgopa.Col L. Rose read the "Nurses'Credo" and the graduates followedafter her in unison: "I solemnlypledge myself to the service ofhumanity and will endeavour to practisemy profession with conscienceand with dignity. I will not permitconsiderations of religion, morality,race or social standing to intervenewith my duty and my patient…"Dr U.U. Alberts read the meaningof the lamp and said: "The lamp inyour hand is the symbol of those whokeep vigil over the sick. It is the symbolof the philosophy of the nursingprofession that those who nurseshould be a light unto others. Sheended by saying that she was givingthem the reveille of nursing: Let theoil of knowledge and of love alwaysensure that your lamp burns brightly.Prof D.M. van Ede, Vice-Dean:Sub-faculty Social Sciences of theFaculty of Arts of Unisa, congratulatedall the graduates and Lt Col E.M.Joseph, Officer Commanding SAMHSNursing College, did likewise. TheSAMHS Band and SAMHS NursingCollege Choir gave splendid performances.Maj Gen Radebe dissolvedthe Assembly and the NationalAnthem was played by the verytalented SAMHS Band.We hope that the graduates are inthis profession because they arecalled by God, like their pioneer,Florence Nightingale, who had whatshe described as her "calling". Wehope that they always remember thatthe total health of their patientsshould be their first consideration.

Civil-military unity during trainingBy Lt Pieter Potgieter,School for Military Health TrainingProgramme Co-ordinator DisasterMedicine TrainingNetcare hosted a function for theSurgeon General, Lt Gen Rinus Jansenvan Rensburg, and members of theSchool for Military Health Training toshow its appreciation of training indisaster medicine presented by theSchool for Military Health Trainingon 1 March 2004. On this occasiondonations were officially handed overfor the training rendered to theSurgeon General. Guests attendingwere Mr Michael Sacks, Chairpersonof Netcare, Prof Dion du Plessis,Regional Manager of Tshwane Region(Netcare), Ms Daleen Nel, ManagerRisk Management, and Ms MandéToubkin, National Trauma Co-ordinator.Netcare was introduced to disastermedicine training through theEMERGO training concept. This practicaltraining system is a very costeffectiveway of training participantsin all facets of disaster managementand disaster medicine. The USAdonated the EMERGO system to theSAMHS and specifically to the Schoolfor Military Health Training to facilitatethe training of participants fromcountries within the SADC region.The ultimate aim of this training is tofacilitate trauma system developmentand co-operation between civilmilitarycounterparts and all SADCcountries during major disasters.In 2003 the SAMHS and NetcareFltr: Mr Michael Sacks, Chairperson of Netcare, Prof Dion du Plessis,Regional Manager of Tshwane Region (Netcare), and Lt Gen Rinus Jansenvan Rensburg, the Surgeon General. (Photo: Sgt David Nomtshongwana)entered into a public-private-partnershipwith the aim to provide disastermedicine training to personnel ofNetcare in the Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Cape regions. During 2003altogether 268 personnel of Netcarereceived this training. Participants inall regions ranged from hospital managers,nursing managers, personnelfrom all hospital departments andalso members from Netcare 911.The total cost of the three trainingsessions amounted to R137 000-00.For this training Netcare donatedtraining aids to the SAMHS to thevalue of R81 704-00. The training aidswill be used in conjunction with theEMERGO system and will enable theSchool for Military Health Training toimprove the standard of the trainingand to train more participants pertraining session. Netcare indicatedthat this training initiative wouldcontinue in the future.Water washing away povertyBy WO2 S. Chengan, ASB DurbanArmy Support Base Durban commemoratedNational Water Week inthe form of an exhibition, stalls and apoetry and art competition. The eventtook place at Salisbury Island MilitaryBase on 25 and 26 March 2004.The theme for National WaterWeek was "Water - Bringing a BetterLife for All" and the slogan was:"Water Washing Away Poverty". Theaim and mission of this event were toeducate members of the DOD andlearners from the schools on theimportance of managing our waterresources wisely and to createawareness of ways to save water.This was definitely achieved.Approximately 2 500 learners,20 teachers, 50 civilians and manyDOD personnel attended.Mr James Perkins from theDepartment of Water Affairs was theguest speaker. The Department ofAgriculture and EnvironmentalAffairs sponsored 10 000 stickersand handbills and Unique Catererssponsored a tent. The exhibitorswere Umgeni Water, the Departmentof Agriculture and EnvironmentalAffairs, WESSA, Emergency ServicesArmy Support Base Durban andNaval Station Durban.Army Support Base Durban hasbeen actively involved in water savingand has achieved an enormousmonitory savings of R1.6 million forthe year 2003.35J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

A new lion in the pride36By Capt T.N. Snyman,Communication OfficerSA Army Combat Training CentreThe SA Army CombatTraining Centre bid farewellto Brig Gen Sam Komane andwelcomed the new leader ofthe Kalahari pride of lions.Brig Gen Teddy Nqapayiaccepted office after aprestigious mechanised changeof command parade held on26 February 2004.The parade commander, Lt ColKwet van der Merwe, accompaniedthe dignitaries to inspect the mechanisedcolumns of 61 MechanisedBattallion on board two Elandarmoured vehicles without turrets.Thereafter the mechanised columnsdrove past in revue order in front ofThe Parade Commander, Lt Col Kwet van der Merwe (standing left, secondvehicle), accompanied by the two dignitaries, Brig Gen Sam Komane(standing right, second vehicle) and Brig Gen Teddy Nqapayi (standingback, second vehicle), inspecting the mechanised columns of61 Mechanised Battallion from two Eland armoured vehicles.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4the podium, paying compliments themechanised way to the two generals.Witnessing this courteous, almosthumble gesture by these majesticRatels resulted in a proud shiverrunning down the spine of every truesoldier serving the SANDF withintegrity.Numerous esteemed civilian andmilitary guests attended the parade.Among the spectators at the paradewere members from all the units atLohatlha and students attending theISUC Course and the NCOOperational Duties Course, whichwere being presented at the time atthe SA Army Combat TrainingCentre.Sixty-two year old Brig GenNqapayi joined Umkhonto we Sizwe in1962 and started his military career inMamre. He held several logisticalAnotherchapter closed.posts during his distinguished militarycareer, such as Chief of Transportand Chief of Logistics. In 1994 he wasplaced at the Western ProvinceCommand where he held severalposts, namely that of Stores Inspector,Project Co-ordinator and Chief ofStaff.In November 1999 he wasappointed Officer Commanding ofOperation MALUTI in Lesotho.After the successful completion ofOP MALUTI in May 2000, he wasappointed Officer CommandingArmy Support Base Bloemfonteinuntil February 2004.Brig Gen Komane is retiring afterhis successful military career of 41years as a logistical functionary. Hestarted his official military career as amember of Umkhonto we Sizwe inCuba, after which he receivedtraining in urban guerilla warfarein East Germany.During his time in exile he completedtwo tertiary studies in Zambia.He qualified in Business Managementand completed a degree in philosophyat the University of Zambia. In1994 he did the Junior Staff Coursein Zambia prior to the integrationprocess of the SANDF.Upon his return to South Africahe completed various courses andheld numerous posts at the LogisticCommand Headquarters. Brig GenKomane accepted his final assignmentin his military career in February 2002when he was appointed as theCommandant of the SA ArmyCombat Training Centre.

Beware of the shark's biteBy Capt Corné Gründlingh,ASB DurbanArmy Support Base Durban wasestablished on 1 April 2000 to rendergeneral support to all other unitswithin its geographical area. Part ofany unit's tradition is to have a sloganunique to that unit and its missionand vision.After the new OfficerCommanding of ASB Durban, ColJ.P.M. Kobbie, took over command,he initiated a unit slogan competition.The competition was also to identify aunit drink. All the members of theunit participated in the competition.The adjudication took place atMerebank Military Base on 5 March2004. The competition was tied and itled to three entries being combined toproduce the new slogan for ASBDurban - "Purpose driven supportbeyond excellence". The winnerswere: Capt J. Marx (Adjutant), WO1R.J. Belelie (BSM) and Sgt N.R. PillayMaking training an adventure(Procurement Service Centre).The members of the unit are veryproud of the new slogan and will becommitted to living up to it.The drink of WO1 De Kok (NPF)won the Unit Drink Award and"Shark's Bite" was officially acceptedas the drink of ASB Durban. Thisdrink consists of Red Sambuka,Vodka and 2 to 3 drops of Tabascosauce. (The total number of dropsdepends on the strength of the"Shark's Bite"!)By Lt Col C.J. Bornman,SO1 Training 1 Regiment de la ReyPhoto: Lt San BronkhorstRegiment de la Rey, named afterGeneral Koos de la Rey, is a traditionalregiment that was established in1934. The Unit has a magnificent history.It is one of only six mechanisedunits in the SANDF (Reserve Force).In the new dispensation since1994, the Unit has met the changeswith a positive attitude. Duringtraining the emphasis is focussed onthe training of junior leaders and therecruitment, selection and training ofpotential junior leaders.The Unit has presented varioustraining exercises locally, duringwhich junior leaders were refreshedin combat techniques. Great successeswere also obtained during theexercises at the SA Army CombatTraining Centre in Lohatlha.Notwithstanding restricted funds theUnit presented various courses withgreat success and relied on its ownability, for example in basic training,subject training and motorisedsection commanders.Nine members who had beentrained by the Unit attended a formalcourse at 1 SAI Bn. The first threeplaces were obtained by members ofAim and shoot!Regiment de la Rey - Pte F. Nieman,Pte M. Moloi and Pte R.Z. Sohoma.For the first time in thirteen years amember of the Unit and ReserveForce, Sgt A. Kleynhans, obtainedfirst place in the Company QuarterMaster Sergeant Course (PF course) atthe Infantry School. Cpl A.R. Götzecame first in the OperationalPhotography Course (PF course) atthe School of Tactical Intelligence,while Rfn Z.A. Fusane and Rfn F.L.Jack obtained first and third places inthe Mechanised Orientation Courseat 1 SAI Bn. L Cpl T.J. Mosikoeobtained first place and L Cpl J.T.Moloi second place in the A Driver'sCourse at 1 SAI Bn. Pte D.E. Seopelaobtained first place in the Gunneryand Signal Operator's Course at1 SAI Bn.In order to refresh members andto maintain a high standard of preparednessthe Unit also participatesin exercises in conjunction with4 Artillery Regiment.Because there is a great need foradventure and companionship, especiallyamong young members, theUnit concentrates on making trainingas interesting as possible. The youthare presented with the opportunityto satisfy their urge for adventureand at the same time to forge closebonds of companionship.Because the Unit took the trainingresponsibility upon itself and carriesit out with so much enthusiasm, it isanticipated that the needs of the Unitregarding junior leaders will be up tostrength in the years 2005/2006.37J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R

insightSoldiers and theircommanders facingchallenges38By Brig Gen Lindile Yam,Director of Physical Training,Sport and Recreation“Amiracle" shouted the internationalcommunity whenthe advent of the newSouth African democracywas realised, without thedifferent armed belligerentforces plunging the countryinto bloodshed as the prophets ofdoom had prophesied.South Africa proved to the wholeworld that it had leadership withcharacter and super attitudes, anelement very rare in the present-daymaterialistically oriented world.The military leaders also rose tothe occasion despite a highlyemotional environment calculatedto make them act otherwise. It wasindeed a miracle when the NonstatutoryForces chose to abide by theinstructions of their leaders despitethreatening, well-orchestrated ThirdForce violent actions and open brutalstate violence at the time and thethreat of divisions as a result of differentviews as to how the situationshould be approached. One can confirm,especially from the side of theformer Non-statutory Force membersat the time, that never had one seensuch determination from the ranksnot to pursue the violent optionto the end.One also noticed the consciousmilitary discipline based on commonpurpose and mutual understandingof the situation as the soldierspainfully abided by the very clearS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4directives from the leadership: "stayput". It does not need a rocket scientistto know that there was a lot atstake, which led to immense tensionsand fear on the part of the StatutoryForces. It was again militarydiscipline and visionary leadershipthat would be put to the test in themilitary milieu of this, our belovedcountry.Brig Gen Lindile Yam.It is also important for one to statethat this discipline that led to the necessaryobedience of the soldiers at themost crucial period in our history wasnot just accidental. It was the confirmationof hard work focussed on thenurturing of real soldiers over manyyears of conflict. This discipline wasnurtured on the "holy ground" - thePride ofsoldiering.parade ground - the only tested reliablemother of all those who pridethemselves on being true soldiers.They are indeed seen to be this bytheir seniors, fellow compatriots andthe South African people who havewillingly invested in them as theirultimate unique insurance concerninglife and death.It is now ten years since our newDefence Force was born. One has thusto ask oneself whether we have developedand sustained good military valuesto make our people proud and toact as a deterrent. It is these realitiesthat impel one to discuss the reasonsthat may be the main cause of thechallenges we face today.AimThe aim of this topic is to stimulatediscussion within the SANDFmilieu that would lead to a generalmood of self-introspection andconstructive self-criticism, leadingto practical voluntary initiativesand actions to the advantage ofthe SANDF.Cultural integration:Non-statutory elementsThe tensions that characterised theconvergence of Non-statutory Forcesin Assembly Areas (Wallmannsthal)were a true reflection of the mistrustof the integration process. The factthat SADF bases, systems and even

officers and soldiers were to be usedin administering the process smackedof absolute betrayal in their view.A number of factors influencedthis thinking: The soldiers who were preparingmeals for them were simplythe "enemy" who couldnever be trusted overnight. The arrests by the SADFMilitary Police and SAP ofmembers in the assembly areason the pretext of alleged previouscrimes and possible espionageas previous members ofstate security forces seemed toundermine diplomacy in thenegotiation process. The situationactually proved to be ashow of strength and flexingof muscles by the "enemy" inthe eyes of the soldiers. The criteria of selection used,with the approval of theJMCC, and monitored byBMATT, was regardedwith immense suspicion.This required that certaineducational standards and acognitive level of thinking beutilised and some be given atime limit to qualify accordingto their rank levels. Soldiers did not have their militaryqualifications with them,as they were never allowed totake them after qualifying inexile, for obvious reasons. Theprocess then seemed not torecognise their courses. Therewas a feeling of dissatisfactionas the ranks given to individualswere downgraded. TheStatutory Forces were notgoing through this pain and itwas therefore seen as a forcedpure absorption into aEurocentric culture. Violent eruptions were experiencedas the SADF soldiersused tear gas in the mess toexercise "control" and establish"order". As the tensions grewsome "MK" combatants actedin a highly undisciplined andmutinous manner, and theybegan to carry placards. The suspicions, however,seemed not to be unfounded,as some files of the memberswould frequently be found industbins. There was wild talkby the white media andbetween SADF members at thetime as to how the "integrating"forces, with their informalway of doing things, wouldcope with the classical "professional"discipline of the SADF.This, deliberately or not, createdan impression that the NonstatutoryForce members werehalf-baked soldiers, incapableof integrating as a true professionalentity and that theywere therefore obliged toconform to the culture of theSADF. I must admit that onefound it strange that the SADFmilitary intelligence was"unaware" that the NonstatutoryForce memberswere trained both as guerrillafighters and highlyprofessional soldiers.These guerrillas, like the SADFand other Statutory Forces,were born out of rigorousdrilling on the parade groundand more so on hostile foreignterrain where they underwentimmense deprivations.The making of a non-statutorysoldierNon-statutory soldiers weretrained as true cadres according to theprinciples of mission command, andwere able to survive and grow by providingreal-time leadership on theirown without guaranteed sustainablemoral or logistic support.They were trained like all otherprofessional regular military forces inthe world and participated in manybattles outside the RSA borders, someof which were conventional battles. Itshould also be mentioned that womenwere also part of the sharp end, andwere thus required to equal thestandards of their male compatriotsin soldiering.It is a known fact that the doctrinesused and the provision of trainingin some cases was conducted bymilitary superpowers with far greaterresources and experience than theSADF in many respects.I personally regarded these soldiersas having much more disciplinethan the SADF members and theStatutory Forces at the time. This wasbecause the members of non-statutoryelements never had any financialcontractual benefits with own motherbodies. They in fact had signed withtheir lives. They earned no salarieswhatsoever. They had no guaranteeof decent meals and sometimes noneat all. They were far from home andvirtually with no communicationwith their families. They never hadleave or holidays and had to be contentwith bloody battles in hostile foreignterrain, tropical diseases, heavydemands to do their best in trainingdespite all the challenges and so on.These soldiers had to survive foryears without sex, as there were no,or very few female compatriots. Itwas a crime to commit sodomy andtreason to be involved in rape. Thestandard of show discipline was veryhigh at all levels. All were required tostand to attention whenever the mostsenior rank entered the camp, and notonly those that he could see. Youngleaders at section level had absoluteauthority and were also well respectedby their subordinates. They werereally proud of belonging to a familyof true soldiers.These soldiers were proud ofbeing seen in military uniform, fightingside by side in military uniform,acting in public as soldiers in themanner a soldier is expected tobehave, both in and out of uniform.They had immense pride in beingSouth Africans and not a bunch ofdisoriented and divided tribes andraces. They scorned those whojudged others according to the languagethey spoke, their area of originin South Africa or the mere colour oftheir skin. I am not implying that theinequalities of the past were notaddressed, but am merely spellingout how the Non-statutory Forceswere shaped in their homogeneity asa present-day SANDF entity.They understood the honour andconspicuousness of being a soldier asthat of a leading patriot amongmultitudes of other patriots and as acalling. They were very aware of their(Continued on page 40)J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R39

40(Continued from page 39)duties, more than they were consciousand preoccupied with theirrights. They understood and werecommitted to the fact that althoughthey were fighting for democracy toprevail in their society, there couldnever be democracy in the military assuch. They were committed to thefact that the military was and mustalways be autocratic in nature if itis to survive as a credible anddisciplined force to fight warsfor the country.They were conscious of the factthat theirs was a business involvingthe possible supreme sacrifice of theirmost treasured possession, which waslife. They were also conscious of theadverse consequences of a lack ofdiscipline, as that could involve littlemetal balls meant to break humanbones and terminate treasured humanlife. They were also very aware thatdiscipline in the military was shapedand nurtured on the parade groundthrough pride in drilling.True factsIt is also true that the SANDF isfacing the real effects of elements ofthe Non-statutory Forces that do nottruly originate from the "ParadeGround", in the true sense of theword. (Refer to SA SOLDIER, Vol 10No 9, Part II, par 3, p 34, Attention allWarrant Officers of the Army byMaj Gen J. Jooste for a definition of aparade ground.) These membershave, however, never been regardedas second-class soldiers by theirrespective Non-statutory Forces. Thetruth is that they were trained eitheras individuals or small groups in andout of the country for differentmissions, such as the following:intelligence collection, sabotage,mass mobilisation, couriers andsmall groups of strike units.These elements were trainedeither in safe houses or in militarybases in the bush, but isolated fromthe rest of the Full-time soldiers. Thiswas for security reasons as they wereto operate behind enemy lines andthen return to their normal civilianenvironment in a short space of time,without raising any suspicions.It is true that when the memberswere integrated into a Full-timeRegular Force, this aspect became animmense challenge. These wereindeed genuine combatants who hadnever gone through the intense,rigorous and difficult part of beingtrained as an obedient soldier, withthe element of selfish consciousnesseradicated from the mind.I personally equate this with thetype of what I regard as would-behalf-baked soldiers through the wellintended outcome based curricula weintend to introduce to the SANDFtraining institutions today. These tome sound dynamic and cost-effectiveas they are presented with very obviousgood intentions by the authors,but it seems as if we negate one mostcrucial fact, namely that we have toshape a soldier who is psychologicallyfit for tough and deadly combat.We even negate the fact that some ofthe recipients of these courses are justraw civilians recruited as professionalsfrom the civilian ranks to joinmilitary officer ranks and are thusrequired to be involved laterin operations.The only difference between thetwo is that the initial group wouldgenerally be more disciplined andcommitted, as it is a direct product ofunderground structures trained duringwar. This is also meant to send acaution to the SANDF authorities atall levels, that in correcting whateverwrongs get done in the process ofwork, including possible abuses ofpower, not to lose sight of the mainreason for our existence as a militaryforce. This also goes to the lawmakers,including legislators of this country,to be sober and mindful of theirintentions to retain and sustain theirmilitary force. This has to be pursuedeven if it means minor amendmentsto the country's constitution that maybe used to undermine the achievementof the aim for the existence ofthe country's ultimate insurance,the SANDF.Not taking the soldier through theelements of the parade ground onlyproduces civilians who wear militaryuniforms and have military rank byvirtue of their intellect and association.It means wasting resources andwasted effort to train professionalgunslingers with no pride and respectfor the military profession. There maybe many exceptions to this, but ingeneral the gap will always show. Mycompany commander, Nome' deguarra, "Moscow", a seasoned battletested soldier from the battles ofZimbabwe at the time, once warnedus that one of the platoon 4 soldierswould easily be captured in battlebecause of his civilian ways ofbehaving. In fact this happened nearCacuso in Angola, on the EasternFront in 1983.This is a bitter pill to swallow andremedial action strategies by allcommanders with deep involvementof the non-commissioned officers areurgent and essential. This will savethe SANDF from adding to the numbersof what one would affectionatelybe referred to as "Sis', "S Sgt", "Boet","Capt, "Bro Major", "Mam'u-SgtMajor" and so on. It is amusing forme to remember that, when one wasin the camps in Angola, those whomwe regarded as behaving unsoldierlyused to be called "ama-PARTISAN",actually translated from Russianmeaning "militia". They were alsocalled "POVO", from Portuguesemeaning "just a citizen within themasses", or "ISAKHAMUZI, INTOENGENAMUMO", meaning rawdisoriented civilian/citizen tryingto play a soldier's role. In the BarneyMolokoane Main Training Centre inCaculama, 15 km from Malange, weused to pride ourselves on the factthat we enforced discipline to such anextent that we even made the treesfall in a straight line. Indeed webelieved and were committed to this.The dedication of the young officerseven earned them the title: "THECOMSOMOL", by their colleaguesfrom other camps who reallyappreciated the commitment andsoldierly environment.This one hopes will help providesome insight into what is probablyregarded as missing in respect ofstandards of professionalism withinthe Non-statutory Forces. I therefoream of the opinion that any commanderor authority who justifies one'sfailures to maintain and raise standardsbecause of the so-called informalways of the ex non-statutoryS A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

informal ways is a "liar". The samegoes for any member of saidbackground who justifies his ownlaziness, non-performance andflabby soldiering.It must be seen as a red light if wecontinue to behave with what Iregard as "leaders busy withdrawingfrom leading" by continuing to producesoldiers who have no pride inthemselves as soldiers, irrespective ofdifficult challenges they may be facing.History may not be kind to us ifwe continue down this path. This situationwill go on as long as we continueto have flimsy excuses when itcomes to the commitment to professionalismand military discipline inrunning our military organisation.We see them every day looking flabbyin uniform and do nothing aboutit, while there are clear regulationsintended to address this.They are at bottle stores wearinguniforms, and it is becoming normal.They are sometimes not sure whetherMeeting on cultural groundsBy Capt Corné Gründlingh,ASB Durbanto salute or not and when some do, itis as if they are pulling clothes fromthe washing line and we blame it ontheir perceived previous force culture.Their uniforms are not up to standardand we blame it on the top hierarchyand the new system of GSBs and inthis way we do not act and mostprobably do not even care. We alsosee commanders failing to respond tothe statements or requests of theirsubordinates for months on end, onlyto respond within hours when thequery comes from the union and wepostpone action again and again.We even fail to treat the matter aspure subversion, which is exactlywhat it is.We see managers who are notexpected to belong to unions in theprivate sector, but allow not onlyofficers but also senior officers in theSANDF to become labour union officials,and fail to call it by its name:"conflict of interests". I suppose theyare so incorruptible that they cannotsabotage the system in order toincrease faith in the interventionmeasures of their unions and areprobably immune from falling preyto the attractions of being politicalanimals in uniform with own agendas.Who is to make this man awareof the commander's intent, the labourunion leaders?I wish to state here that, yes, it istrue that there will always be someform of abuse of power. Our historyas a military force is not immune tothis.I, however, want to caution thedecision-makers that in redressing thesituation of those abuses, we shouldnot lose sight of the fact that we haveto remain a credible military force. Iam saying, lock up the man who triesto block the system, but do not generalisethe situation. To be specific here,you cannot replace a military prosecutoror a judge with a civilian one.(Part II will be published in the July2004 edition of SA SOLDIER.)The members of Army Support BaseDurban consist of members from theprevious Natal Command, NatalCommand Maintenance Unit andNatal Command Workshops. A smallpercentage of members came fromother military units.With this background in mind,most of the members had known eachother for a number of years. It was,however, the first time that all membersof Army Support Base Durbanmet on cultural grounds on19 March 2004.A Cultural Day was presentedwhere all members had the opportunityto display their culture. Each sectionhad a specific culture to represent.It was not important what cultureyou were in reality, for that dayyou were a specific culture. It then sohappened that we had white Zulus,white Indians, African and IndianBoere. Even the Chinese were represented.Cultural events presentedincluded Zulu dancing, Indiandancing, Indian instrumental musicand singing, stick fighting demonstrations,"Boeresport", such as egg run,egg throw, sack races and tug-of-war.During all these events eachsection prepared their cultural foodand enjoyed it during lunch. Theday ended in a good spirit andeveryone enjoyed the day.The knowledge gained can neverbe erased from our memories or ourhistory.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R41

insightArmy College adaptsits training approachBy Col E.F. Drost, ActingCommandant SA Army CollegePhoto: Sgt David NomtshongwanaThe SA Army College, anesteemed institution recognisedfor its training excellence,has a proud historydating back to its inceptionin 1902. The SA ArmyCollege has always beenrenowned for training, especially ofsenior officers serving in the SAArmy, the broader SANDF, and eventhe international community. Anexample is Gen J.E. Cheyre Espinosa,who was a student on the SeniorCommand and Staff Duties Course in1981, and who was appointed as theCommander in Chief of the ChileanArmy in 2002. What led to this trackrecord, which started in 1902?The answer is short and simple -the SA Army College has demonstratedits flexibility and agility in adaptingto constant change in a highlyvolatile, uncertain, ambiguous andcomplex environment. It has, furthermore,made a concerted effort toaccept responsibility for solvingfuture problems in a creative andinnovative manner by planning"Breaking theold moulds."now; in short accepting current andfuture challenges and solving theminnovatively.The SA Army College is only tooaware of the fact that military leaderswho ignore, or fail to see clearly, thechanges in warfare brought about bytechnological advances and changingcircumstances and who fail to adapt,risk their men and their cause.It was, therefore, an imperative42Members in front of the SA Army College - fltr: WO1 D.S. Levendal (Sergeant-Major of the SA Army College),Maj I. Schultz, Maj Q.F. Cartwright, Maj M.T. Leketi, Col E.F. Drost (Acting Commandant SA Army College),Col J.J. Wessels (Chief Instructor JCSD Branch), Maj L.M. Manganyi, Maj C.Y. Lee (member of the South KoreanArmy), Lt Col P.C.Z. Fongoqa (Mufasa JCSD Course) and Lt Col G.B. Pharo.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

for the SA Army College to adapt itstraining approach in order to facilitatethe training and preparation ofofficers for their leadership roles inthe 21st century.For this reason the andragogicalapproach has been instituted.According to Malcolm Knowles, andragogicsis the "art and science of helpingadults learn". At the SA ArmyCollege this approach is referred to asthe Adult Training Approach.The reason for this approachshould be obvious as the SA ArmyCollege trains adult learners whohave needs that differ from those oftheir younger counterparts for whomthe pedagogic approach is relevant.Adult learners have a definite selfconceptand will therefore not learnunder conditions incongruous withtheir self-concept.They have accumulated such arich fund of experience that they canshare with their fellow learners. Theyalso have definite time constraintsand would therefore prefer to put touse immediately what they havelearned and make their knowledgeapplicable to current problems. It isfor these reasons that the SA Army"Change is a constant fortoday's armed forces. With frequentshifting requirements, aswell as advancing technology,it is imperative that anyreforms contribute to a force'sability to operate on the battlefield,"said Gen Donn A. Starry,US Army.College now focuses on aspects, suchas why specific training should bedone, utilising all learners' experience(especially in small group discussions),emphasising that learnersshould be self-directing, that trainingactivities are life or task centred, thatlearners should accept responsibilityfor their own learning, and thatintrinsic motivation serves as thepower source for all learning.From January 2003 this approachhas been implemented with greatenthusiasm and the positive resultsand advantages have already becomevisible. This was made possible onlyafter a substantial number ofDirecting Staff had qualified in highereducation and training practices atvarious academic institutions, whichwe view as co-partners in our newventure.It should be stated that the SAArmy College is committed to a constanttraining evolution to ensure thatofficers are moulded to ensure thatthey will be capable of "creating" afuture instead of reacting to it. TheCollege therefore strives to live up toits slogan: "Breaking the old moulds".For more detail please visit theSA Army College website at:armycol@lantic.net or the intranetat: www.army.mil.za:8080/armycol.Tuberculosis (TB) is curableBy Mr Bongani Maphumulo for theKhomanani TB Campaign Becoming short of breath. Feeling tired all the time. Sweating at night.Tuberculosis (TB) is a major problemin South Africa. Some people believe Getting a fever which comesand goes.that you can only get TB if you arepoor or if you are an alcoholic. This isnot true. Anyone can get TB. TB isone of the leading causes of death inSouth Africa although it is a curabledisease. One of the primary ways ofstopping the spread of TB is througheducation. 24 March is WorldTuberculosis Day - the governmentmade TB, alongside HIV/AIDS,a priority disease in the country.What do I do if I thinkI have TB?Get checked by a health worker ifyou think you have TB.You should go to your nearestclinic or doctor as soon as possible.The sister or doctor will ask youexactly how you are feeling and whatyour problems are. They willexamine you.They may ask you to cough yourHow do I know if I have TB?You will probably have some ofthe following symptoms if youhave TB:spit into a small bottle for two morningsin a row. The nurse will thensend this spit to a laboratory. Peoplein the laboratory will look for TB Coughing for more than twoweeks.germs in your spit. You may alsoneed to have an X-ray of your chest. Coughing up blood.The health worker will tell you when Not wanting to eat.to come back for the X-ray results. If Feeling pains in the chest.you have TB, the people you live withneed to be checked.TreatmentPeople who have suffered fromTB say that taking the medicine everyday for six months is difficult. So it isa good idea to get somebody to helpyou take your medicine. This personis called a Directly ObservedTreatment Short (DOTS) Course supporter.Ask at the clinic about gettinghelp with taking your medicine. Youcan choose your helper - the personcan be a neighbour, a shop steward atwork, a local teacher or a nurse at aclinic. It is important that the personis nearby and easy to get to everyday. Your helper will keep yourmedicine and give it to you everyday. Your helper will also encourageyou to carry on with the treatmentwhen you get tired of it. It isimportant to take your medicineevery day even when you feel better.If you require more informationabout TB, phone the Department ofHealth at tel no: (012) 312 0000 or theDirector of the TB Directorate at telno: (012) 312 0106.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R43

insightEducating air powerBy Brig Gen Des Barker, OfficerCommanding Makhado AFBOne of the stated objectivesof the SA Air Force is thatof achieving Excellence inAir Power. At the highestlevel, one of the manybuilding blocks to achievethe stated objective isknowledge, particularly of air powerhistory, doctrines, operations, tacticsand technologies. At the lower level,however, each individual withinthe SA Air Force must possess aworking knowledge of air powerprinciples and have at least aminimum understanding of the roleand functions of an air force and itsvarious capabilities.During 2004 Makhado AFBintends to implement a three-yearplan to upgrade the knowledge baseof its personnel and provide the basicbuilding blocks required and understandingthe principles of air powerin all its different contexts. Such aneducation mechanism will attempt to"Air power isthe Architect ofVictory" - JanSmuts, 1917.stimulate an interest in air powerdown to the lowest level and alsoprovide the background to themembers of Makhado AFB for eventualair power courses at SA Air ForceCollege. Last but not least, it will permitthe members of the SA Air Force'scombat base to understand better thecore business not only of MakhadoAFB, but also of the SA Air Force.Ultimately, the aim will be to produceAir Force members who are able todiscuss issues of air power intelligentlyfrom a basis of sound knowledge.44ProgrammeThe education exercise will betwo-pronged, ie biannual lecturesfrom the Air Power DevelopmentCentre at SA Air Force College andsupplemented on a monthly basis bylectures, presentations and demonstrationsat base level by squadronand unit commanders on base trainingdays according to a pre-plannedschedule. Such presentations will takethe form of thirty-minute lectures orpractical demonstrations, videos andbriefings, or whatever is more relevantto the particular aspect. In thiseducation process the intention willbe to make the learning experienceinteresting and enjoyable.Grippen.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4Appointment of air powerrepresentativesAll cases need a champion and arepresentative from each section onthe Base will be appointed to act as anodal point for all matters relating toair power in the unit; an analogy maybe drawn to a flight safety or sports

officer. Obviously, any education programmeshould be assessed to determinethe success of this programmeand, as such, the learning experiencewill be assessed to determine the successof this programme. The learningexperience will be assessed by meansof a qualitative questionnaire inNovember each year. In 2004 the testwill be conducted to determine howmuch knowledge each member ofthe base possesses on the role andfunctions of the various units on thebase in their mission to providecombat operation support to theSA Air Force.Future programmesIdeally in 2005 it would be desirableto lift the level of informationtransfer to include air power history,and in 2006 take a more detailed lookat particular campaigns to be able toconsider operational aspects of airpower and to analyse the lessonslearned. The ultimate vision wouldbe to undertake ten persons on a oneweekair power tour of the UnitedKingdom on an annual basis. Sucha block tour for Makhado AFB personnelwould include a study of theBattle of Britain, visiting the BritishWar Cabinet, the Battle of BritainOperations Room at Uxbridge,Fighter Command Headquarters atBentley Priory and Duxford (home ofthe first Spitfire Squadron during thebattle). In addition, visits to BigginHill, (former front-line fighter base),the Imperial War Museum (London),the RAF Museum at Hendon and avisit to the Royal Air Force's AirWarfare Centre, would complementthe theoretical study of air power.Can you imagine the effectivenessof a base in which members of theProtection Squadron have a fineunderstanding of what pilots do, ofsupply support personnel who understandwhat an air traffic controllerdoes, and even chefs who understandtheir importance in providing efficientcombat operation support? Theability to understand the core businessof an air force is the responsibilityof each airman, and by means ofthis educational programme it ishoped that this objective for the membersof Makhado AFB will be realised.Best Air Force engineeringstudent honouredCourtesy SA Air ForceCorporate CommunicationStanley Leslie Walters was an acepilot in the Royal Flying Corps duringWorld War I. He scored at leastsix confirmed kills, and actuallyfought an indecisive air duel againstthe famous "Red" Baron vonRichthoven.After the war, during which hewas awarded various medals, hepioneered air routes and shortenedothers over Africa for the VacuumOil Company. At the onset of WorldWar II he joined the SA Air Force andserved as base camp commandant inEgypt and Officer CommandingCape Command.He left the Union Defence Force in1945 as a lieutenant colonel andremained a reserve officer until 1956.After World War II he formed acompany which dealt with aviationequipment and components.Stanley Walters passed away in1989 and bequeathed a substantialamount of money to theJohannesburg branch of the SA AirForce to introduce a floating trophyawarded annually to the engineeringstudent of the SA Air Force who performedon average the best academicallyin the four years of study. Thepurpose of this trophy is not only tomotivate SA Air Force engineeringstudents, but also to ensure thatStanley Walters, with his impishsense of humour and a twinkle inhis eye, will never be forgotten.Last year the floating trophy was,for the first time ever, awarded to afemale student. Lt Ilse du Toitcompleted her course in industrialengineering at the University ofPretoria with an average of 80%over four years of study.Lt Du Toit was born in BeaufortWest and matriculated with six distinctionsat Nelspruit High School.Lt Ilse du Toit.She joined the SAAF in 1999, afterwhich she was introduced to themilitary culture.She initially started her studies asa mechanical engineer, but soonrealised that industrial engineeringwas more suited for her. She thanchanged to industrial engineering.During her studies she assisted with aproject on the Oryx helicopter andundertook an anthropometrical studyof all the aircraft in the SA Air Force.She is currently enrolled for herhonours degree in industrial engineeringat the University of Pretoria.According to Lt Du Toit theopportunity that the SA Air Forceafforded in the form of a bursarymade an immense difference to herlife and she thanked the personsinvolved for their support. She alsoadded that the students currentlyinvolved in this programme can seethemselves as advantaged and shoulduse this opportunity to the best oftheir ability.J U N E 2 0 0 4 • S A S O L D I E R45

clippingsSoldier launched areggae albumBy Nakedi PhashaOn 7 March 2004 Cpl GilbertMushanganyisi launched his firstalbum. "Chippa", as he is affectionatelycalled by his colleagues, started hismusic career in 1987 and was inspiredby reggae artists, such as Bob Marley,Peter Tosh and Harley and theRastafarians.Cpl Mushanganyisi, who is also acomposer, sings in both Venda andEnglish. The new album, Babylon,consists of eight tracks, and dealswith culture, struggle and socialissues. In a way Babylon celebrates theten years of freedom.Cpl Mushanganyisi promotes hisalbum by performing at live shows inGauteng. His brother assists him inpromoting and distributing his musicin Venda. The album is also givenairplay by radio stations, such asUkhozi and Phalaphala.For Cpl Mushanganyisi the sky isthe limit and he hopes to release asecond album in July. He is currentlyworking at the MOD GSB HumanResource Support Centre at the Bankof Lisbon Building in Pretoria.DOD versus Two Oceans marathon46By Col Zirk Lourens,PRO for Two Oceans MarathonBetween mountain and sea lies thewinding course of 21 km and 56 km,breathtaking in its beauty - the testingground of speed, strength, enduranceand the "ticking clock".The 56 km ultra-marathon routeincluded Chapman's Peak for the firsttime since 1999. The Chappies route isfamiliar to participants and is referredto as the original "Oceans" route.This prestigious event has becomea landmark on the calendar ofendurance athletes, for it embodiesthe spirit that is emerging in ourcountry and the DOD at this time.A spirit in which the elements oftogetherness, common purpose,perseverance and endurance are allcomplemented at the end by a senseof personal achievement and sweetfulfilment.Altogether 14 815 athletes completedthe 21 km and 56 km race.Altogether 236 runners of the DOD,of whom 25 were women, completedthe race. Among them were "BlueNumbers" runners (athletes who hadalready finished ten Two Oceansmarathons) and one athlete, EdwardJohnson of SANDF WP, whocompleted his 20th Two Oceansmarathon (Double Blue). Elevenathletes of the Reserve Force finishedthe race. They were all from NatalCarbineers Marathon Club.In the 56 km race, the first SANDFathlete to cross the finishing line wasIsaac Mokhobo from the SANDFFree State Athletic Club. His overallposition out of 6 180 competitors was70th,in a time of 03:35:43. In thesecond position was Paul Julian fromthe SANDF Western ProvinceAthletic Club. His overall positionwas 93rd, in a time of 03:39:29. It wasalso his 12th consecutive silver medal.Andries Hendrics from SANDFFree State Athletic Club was the thirdSANDF athlete to finish, in a time of03:43:54 and an overall 114th position.The first woman running for theSANDF was Sandy de Beer fromSANDF KwaZulu-Natal AthleticClub, in a time of 04:43:46, herposition 1 128th overall.In the 21 km race, the first SANDFathlete to cross the finishing line wasColin Witbooi from the SANDFWestern Province Athletic Club. Hisoverall position out of 5 681 athleteswas 32nd in a time of 01:10:42. Thefirst woman for the SANDF wasPriscilla Makwela of SANDF WesternProvince Athletic Club, in a timeof 01:47:39.An ugly surprise awaited themarathon runners on the homestraight - they had to drag theircramping legs for over 250 m in energy-sappingmud. The race took placein incessant rain, and ended at theUniversity of Cape Town's rugbyfields, which had been churned into abog. Race organisers were forced todump a mass of sawdust at the beginningof the final straight to stoprunners from slip-sliding away. Itwas the 35th presentation of the TwoOceans marathon in Cape Town.Col Zirk Lourens, PRO for theTwo Oceans Marathon, completed his7th Two Oceans. Col Lourens had alive TV interview during the race onthe DOD/SANDF involvement andparticipation in this road race, andother race fixtures held throughoutthe RSA. At the University of CapeTown (UCT) in the finishing area theSANDF had a stand where all SANDFathletes and their families gathered.Some statistics of the organisationinvolved in this year's race: 702 000water sachets (87 tons), 250 000 plasticbottles, 150 000 Powerade sachets,25 000 litres of Coca-Cola, 20 000 kgof ice and 420 trestle tables.Take note: On 16 June 2004 watchout for our DOD members competingin the Comrades Marathon.S A S O L D I E R • J U N E 2 0 0 4

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