A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • S A S O L D I E R - Department of Defence

S A S O L D I E R
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 1

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From the
Editor’s desk
Letters
to the Editor
A milestone in 43 SA
Brigade 15-year span
SA Navy Protocol
Course
South Africa and
Sultanate of Oman
strengthen ties
The official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence
Minister Sisulu commits
to the Defence Industry
Exercise
GOOD HOPE V
The SANDF participates
in the Rand Show
Chief of the SA Army
visits SA Army units
STREET ADDRESS
Defence Headquarters
cor Nossob & Boeing St
Erasmuskloof
PRETORIA
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19
20
22
23
24
26
Chief of the SA Navy
briefs the media
A changing of command
for the Infanteers
DOD International
Women’s Day Leadership
Seminar
Focus on International
Women’s Day
SA Navy lights
up Simon’s Town
University Reserve
Training Programme
CONTRIBUTIONS:
Although all possible
care is taken with
articles, the editorial
staff cannot take any
responsibility for lost
articles and photographs.
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24
28
30
32
34
36
38
41
Young recruits report
to serve the nation
Force preparation crucial
to develop disciplined
military leaders
JSB Garrison celebrates
National Water Week
End of tenure for
another SA Navy stalwart
SANDF Spouses Forum
adds a renowned
member to the team
World
Haemophilia Day
Naval Station Durban
sports challenge
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POSTAL ADDRESS
SA SOLDIER
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PRETORIA, 0001
EDITORIAL STAFF
Editor: Ms Nelda Pienaar
Deputy Editor: Mr Lufuno Netshirembe
Text Editor:
Translation
Consultant:
Mr Eugene Muller
Directorate
Language Services
TELEPHONE
Tel: (012) 355 6341
Fax: (012) 355 6399
email:sasoldier@mil.za
website: www.dod.mil.za
Editorial Staff:
Mr Kgabo Mashamaite
S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole
Sgt Elias Mahuma
Cpl Ally Rakoma
Cpl Itumeleng Makhubela
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2 S A S O L D I E R • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

S A S O L D I E R
www.dod.mil.za
42
CISM day run and
Gauteng regional
summer sports day
42
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Mr S. Dlamini
(Chairperson)
Brig Gen X.G. Mabanga
Cpln M.P.K. Masemola
Col S.A. Motswadira
Col M.E. Pheko
Col S.P. Zeeman
Cdr C.E. Khumalo
Lt Col S. Kotane
Ms N. Pienaar
Lt S.E. Segone
Mr L.R.M. Netshirembe
(Secretary)
24
ABOVE: The Type 209 submarine, SAS QUEEN MODJADJI I,
(Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma)
SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views and
opinions expressed by the authors of articles are their own and do
not necessarily represent those of the Department of Defence (DOD).
Acceptance and publication of advertorial and advertising matter in
SA SOLDIER do not constitute DOD endorsement or warranty in respect
of goods or services therein described. The DOD does not assume any
liability in respect of any claims made in advertisements.
COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be reproduced
without the written consent of the Editor.
FRONT COVER: An Oryx helicopter hoists a Gecko vehicle to provide
held at the Nasrec Expo Centre’s main arena during the opening of
the Rand Show on 6 April 2012. Read all about the participation of the
SANDF in the Rand Show on pages 16 and 17.
(Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma)
For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa,
visit our website at: www.dod.mil.za
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • S A S O L D I E R 3

S A S O L D I E R
message
from the
editor’s desk
ezibuya
ku mhleli
This month we remember the brutal, intense,
gruesome torturing death that Jesus Christ
suffered for us when He was on Earth 2012
years ago. He endured all of that for us,
because of His eternal love for us. He took the
punishment of our sins upon Him through
dying this horrible death. He died for us so that we
could be forgiven, cleansed, and be together with
Him forever, and someday join Him in heaven for all
eternity.
Fortunately, His love for us did not stop on the cross.
The cross is empty now. He lives, and He longs to
to help us share that same love and forgiveness with
one another (our neighbours). His commission is that
another).
We, as the military family of South Africa, also
dedicated April to Freedom Month in honouring
Commander-in-Chief of the South African National
Defence Force.
As we celebrate Easter and Freedom Month in April
let us spread our gratitude and love to those less
fortunate than ourselves. And let us also focus on
our roles as supervisors, colleagues, spouses and
parents with this approach, as it is here, at our
workplaces and in our homes that we can create the
biggest positive impact.
Keep in mind that our main purpose in life is to love
God and our neighbours (one another). It is easier
said than done. We are so busy at our workplaces
and in our homes every day that we usually neglect
these most important relationships in life. We forget
role and purpose in life.
May you experience His love this Easter!
God bless.
Nelda Pienaar
Editor SA Soldier
Kulenyanga sikhumbula isihluku, nobuhlungu
obukhulu, nokuhlukunyezwa ngokufa kuka Jesu
Kristu owahlukumezeka ngenxa yethu ngesikhathi
elapha emhlabeni eminyakeni eyizinkulungwane
ezingamashumi amabili neshumi nambili (2012)
eyedlule. Wakubekezelela konke lokhu ngenxa yethu
ngoba enothando lwethu olungapheliyo. Wathatha isijeziso
sezono zethu ngokusifela ngokufa okusabekayo. Wasifela ukuze
sizuze intethelelo, sihlanzeke ukuze sikwazi ukuhlangana naye
ekuphileni kwaphakade futhi ngelinye ilanga sihlangane naye
ezulwini kuzekube ingunaphakade.
Ngenhlanhla, uthando lwakhe aluphelelanga esiphambanweni.
Akasekho esiphambanweni manje. Uyaphila futhi ufuna
ukusinikeza impilo yenjabulo, egcwele uthando kanye nokusisiza
ukuze sikwazi ukunikeza ngalo kanye nentethelelo kwabanye
(omakhelwane bethu). Isimiselo sakhe ukuthi sithande yena
kuqala bese sithanda nomakhelwane bethu (nabanye abantu).
Thina njengomndeni wezokuvikela walapha eNingizimu
Afrika, sinikele ngenyanga Umbasa okuyinyanga yenkululeko,
ukuba sihloniphe u Baba u Madiba, owaba uMkhuzi we Zempi
(Commander-in-Chief) woMbutho wezokuvikela iZwe lase
Ningizimu ne Afrika (SANDF).
Njengoba sigubha iPhasika kanye neNkululeko kulenyanga
Umbasa, sidlulisa ukubonga kanye nothando kulabo
abahlwempu. Siphinde sibheke indima esiyidlalayo
njengabaphathi, ozakwethu, abashadikazi kanye nabazali nga
lomyalezo ngoba kusekhaya kanye namsebenzini lapho singaba
negalelo elihle nelekhayo khona.
Kumele sikukhumbule njalo ukuthi umsebenzi wethu empilweni
ukuthanda uNkulunkulu kanye nomakhelwane bethu (abanye
abantu). Kona kulula ukukusho kunokwenza. Ukuba matasatasa
emisebenzini kanye nasemakhaya kwenza ukuthi singanaki
ukubaluleka kobudlelwane empilweni. Siyalibala nokuthi
kumele sithandane ukuze sikwazi ukugcwalisa umsebenzi kanye
nesimiselo sethu empilweni.
Sengathi umuzwa wothando lwakhe ungaba nani kuleli Phasika!
U Nkulunkulu anibusise.
Nelda Pienaar
uMhleli we SA Soldier
* Translation to IsiZulu by Mr Manelisi Ndaba.
4 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

Christmas message
S A S O L D I E R
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 5

S A S O L D I E R
letters to the editor
CRIME PREVENTION
winning letter
“So we did it again”. After a very
at 68 Air School) can look forward
to building on the successes of the
previous years. 2011 was a particularly
faced numerous challenges due to the
of the squadron, the resignation of
The squadron also had to sustain
the operational requirements of the
SA Air Force and had to commit
manpower to various deployments.
All of these factors placed a huge
burden on the operational readiness
of the squadron, and as the squadron
is responsible for the protection of
68 Air School and its assets the risk
factor for theft increased. 68 Air
School and the surrounding areas
were hit hard and theft occurred. The
squadron got valuable information
WHERE ARE OUR MORALS
We know we have lost our morals
when we ask what happened to
healthy interaction among members of
different communities Ubuntu used
to guide people’s morals and human
conduct, but now that’s vanished. We
are blinded by greed, hatred, jealously
R200-00 prize for the best letter
from the community and had until
recently achieved great successes
in combating crime. The dedicated
manpower of the squadron did their
utmost to combat these thugs and
early hours of 22 August 2011 when
two illegal Zimbabwean citizens were
caught digging for cables and steel
pipes outside the unit. Cables and steel
pipes to the value of about R20 000
were recovered. The perpetrators are
currently serving a jail sentence for
theft. The second success was recorded
during the early hours of 23 December
2011 when a patrolling guard spotted
four intruders trying to break into a
classroom to steal pc hardware. They
Unfortunately no arrests were made
owing to the heavy rain, which helped
them disappear in the long grass
opposite the unit. A loss of about
R14 000 was prevented.The third
us, eg you cannot leave your daughter
with your male neighbour because she
could be raped. Gone are the days when
neighbours wined and dined together
without fear. Gone are the days when
children respected their elders. Human
Ritual murders are our hobby, if not our
TRIBUTE TO THE LATE RFN V.R. ZONYANE
It is sad news to the members of the
Regional Works Unit Eastern Cape.
The South African National Defence
Force and the family members of
the late Rfn Zonyane extend their
condolences at the unfortunate
passing away of our fellow brother,
comrade, compatriot and dear friend,
Rfn V.R. Zonyane. He died on 28
February 2012 and was buried on 10
March 2012 at his home at the upper
Chulunca in Qumbu. Rfn Zonyane
joined the SA Army on 1 August
1990 from the then Transkei Defence
worked at 1 Transkei Battalion. After
the combining of forces in 1994 he was
transferred to 6 SA Infantry Battalion (6
SAI Bn) and worked at Bravo Company
under the leadership of Major Kleinbooi
who is now a Lieutenant Colonel in
Pretoria. He then served as an MP in
SA SOLDIER welcomes letters to the Editor. Short letters are more likely to be
published, and all letters may be edited for reasons of style, accuracy or space
limitations. Letters should preferably be typewritten. All letters 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 to sasoldier@mil.
za. We would like to hear your comments or ideas, particularly about matters
affecting members of the Department of Defence. Regrettably, anonymous letters
success was recorded on 26 January
2012 when patrolling guards caught
four intruders from Limpopo with
digging equipment. They were
digging for steel pipes. These men
were handed over to the Military
Police Division (MPD) at AFB
Waterkloof for further action.
502 Squadron, Maj G.J. Mouton,
expressed his sincere gratitude to all
the squadron members and external
partners such as the MPD at AFB
Waterkloof and Lyttelton SA Police
Service for assisting 502 Squadron to
combat crime, not only at the unit, but
also in the community, as the crime
prevention actions of the squadron
do have a positive impact in the
immediate surrounding areas close to
the unit.
2012 will be a year with
opportunities, let’s run with it.
Maj G. Mouton, email
identity. The devil’s agents sell prayers
in Christ’s name. We live in fear; we are
so morally bankrupt that we are allergic
to self-discipline and good conduct, but
even if we do not know where we have
gone wrong, surely we know that we
are not on the right track. Cpl M.M.
Lamola, Wynberg Military Police
the Security Division in 6 SAI Bn.
When the Department of Defence
opened works regiment units he
bravely took that opportunity and in
2010 became a member of the Regional
Works Unit Eastern Cape. As a student
in the carpentry trade he achieved
his theory in 2010 at the Eastern
Cape Training Centre and started his
practical phase in a company called
“Capstone Construction”.
While he was still busy with his
practical phase he fell ill and passed
away. He had spent all his 21 years
of service as a loyal servant of his
something that showed that the SA
Army was his second home.
We salute you for your bravery
and the leadership qualities you
have shown us while serving our
organisation and being a “good”
example to all of us.
May his soul rest in peace. Rfn
P.H. Damente, Port Elizabeth
6 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

letters to the editor
S A S O L D I E R
UNSUNG HEROES
SAS SALDANHA was recently tasked
with the mammoth task of hosting
the training and development of
the National Youth Service (NYS)
programme incumbents. Over 1 000
members took part in the programme.
Participants engaged in various
learning programmes to help with a
holistic development strategy.
Area Military Health Unit Western
Cape (AMHU WC) was tasked to
provide a 24-hour medical facility that
these participants could access for
medical care (mainly primary health
and emergency care). With support
from all levels of management,
resources were made available to set
up a medical installation for “NYS
members”.
The daily operational
responsibility was handed to the “ops
medics” of the unit. Some members
were rotated on a monthly basis. The
pressure associated with providing
health care for the NYS members
was a challenge that was met with
courage. The “ops medics” who were
engaged in the initial phase had to
convert some living quarters of the
SA Navy into a medical installation.
Consultation rooms, an emergency
room, overnight observation facilities
and other storage spaces had to be
carefully planned in the building
provided.
The exposure to the “NYS clinic”
contributed to the development of “ops
medics” and the acquiring of much
needed knowledge. They:
Had to consult large numbers of
patients every day. The estimated
average “ops medic” to patient ratio
per day was 1:25.
Interacted with the local clinic
and provincial hospital to ensure
maximum patient access to various
available health services.
Were introduced to various
regimens for the treatment of HIV
and AIDS, TB and other diseases.
Arranged the timeous availability
of chronic medication for patients.
Ensured that patients were
transported to the various health
care facilities they were referred to.
Motivated patients that wanted to
7 SAI BN RECEIVES DONATIONS FOR YOUNG RECRUITS
When 7 SA Infantry Battalion was
preparing for the Military Skills
Development System (MSDS)
intake, invitations were extended
to the different local businesses
for donations. The Foskor Mining
Company stepped forward to donate
450 conference bags to the unit.
7 SA Infantry Battalion, Lt Col
Khathutshelo Nethononda, expressed
his appreciation for the gifts presented
by the Foskor Mining Company.
He emphasised that this should
be a pathway to greater future
opportunities and that the relationship
established between the two should
community at large. He also thanked
the local media that were present to
cover the event.
Ms Suzette Marnewick, the Liaison
Company, said: “We appreciate the
patriotism and professionalism that
are part of the 7 SA Infantry Battalion
value system. Foskor is excited to
see members of the SANDF eagerly
serving their immediate communities
beyond the call of duty.” Foskor will
give up on the programme.
the character and experience of the
ops medics involved. The manner
in which they operated the medical
installation on a daily basis needs
to be commended. They upheld the
Surgeon General’s motto: “World Class
Clinical Service”. The SA National
Defence Force, the SA Military
Health Service and AMHU WC can
be proud of these men and women
who distinguished themselves as true
ambassadors of the organisation. The
excellent support of other military
health care professionals and support
staff eased the pressure. It was a task
well executed. Excellent “Ops Medics”!
The NYS “Ops Medic” Team
consisted of WO2 A. Modise, S Sgt S.
Boyce, S Sgt J. du Preez, S Sgt B. Ryk,
S Sgt R. Legodi, S Sgt X. Sam, S Sgt M.
Sijaji, Sgt S. Dingaan, Sgt V. Rossouw,
Sgt Q. Williams, Cpl B. Dyantyi, Cpl
K. Moodaley, Cpl A. Nkonki (ECT),
L Cpl S. Erasmus (ECT) and L Cpl
A. Ngwenyama. Sgt S.A. Dingaan,
email
Nethononda (left), receiving gifts (a conference bag) from Ms Suzette
continue to support them to live up to
their motto: ‘Safeguarding South Africa
for a Better Life for All’.” Lt Miyelani
Mathebula, email
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 7

S A S O L D I E R
letters to the editor
DOD TAKING THE LEAD IN PROTOCOL
Defence Foreign Relations held a
workshop on ceremonial and protocol
aspects between military liaison
SA Army Gymnasium from 4 to 9
March 2012.
The aim of this workshop was
to co-ordinate the duties of the VIP
that they could function well when
deployed together. South Africa is
currently chairing the troika, and the
Department of Defence (DOD) will be
presenting the Africa Aerospace and
Defence (AAD) Expo in September
2012.
All these efforts are being
undertaken in order to prepare
A MOMENT
that are likely to be deployed by the
DOD during the Southern African
Development Community (SADC)
Interstate Defence and Security
Committee (isdsc) and the AAD.
The State Security Agency protocol
to strengthen the relations between
these two government departments
as they always work hand in hand
during the SADC ISDSC meetings,
Defence Committee meetings and Joint
Permanent Commissions. This was not
department attended such a workshop.
The workshop for the Presidency
support staff was also held at the SA
Army Gymnasium over the period 4 to
15 December 2011.
All of these activities were
successful; Defence Foreign Relations
was responsible for the facilitation of
these workshops. Col P.E Nkosi and
Capt W.X. Ngubane were responsible
for the planning of these outstanding
and successful workshops under the
guidance of Brig Gen N.F. Maphoyi
(Director Defence Foreign Relations).
The Presidency support staff, State
Defence Foreign Relations staff and all
the members who were involved in all
the workshops are grateful to the SA
Army Gymnasium for hosting them.
The SA Army Gymnasium is like a
home away from home. All of the
members are looking forward to being
hosted by the SA Army Gymnasium
in the future. Maj P.P. Xaba, SA Army
Gymnasium
That awkward moment when you
close your eyes and you just feel as
if the world has turned against you.
The moment where you try to adapt
to the challenge you are facing, trying
to overcome the obstacles, where you
want to respond to the behaviour of
the environment. You feel like you
are short of breath, all alone on your
own no one there to encourage you by
saying that it is going to be all right,
anytime soon, you just need patience
and hope. You just want to let go of
everything, but instead it is better to try
and fail than fail to try, but again failure
is not an option on your menu, you just
have to go on.
That joyful moment when you
open your eyes, looking forward with
gratitude, feeling the fresh breeze, a
new dawn with small daily happenings,
which makes life so spectacular. With a
A REQUEST FOR SUPPLY AND DELIVERY
smile on your face thanking yourself
that you made it, though it was not
easy, but you managed to pull the
string and now you are a soldier, yes
you are.
Nothing comes easily in life -
there is always a solution to every
challenge and thereafter come great
rewards. Amn B.T. Nkosi, 10 Air
Depot, Thaba Tshwane
It has been stated that the future of the
SA Army will not be determined by
brilliant systems, the latest equipment,
the best business process and the
like, but by high-quality professional,
dedicated and loyal people who take
pride in their work and who are
the call of duty. Such people are the
result of focused recruitment, rigorous
selection and a career management
system that ensures that people are
developed and maintained to embark
on the future of the army of today,
tomorrow and after tomorrow.
But let us focus on the
Mpumalanga Province. We cannot
tolerate unscrupulous and negligent
members, but through learning
facilities, e.g. Information Technology,
and also technical courses we can
achieve success.
In-service training is not provided
in our unit for the soldiers. Concerning
the possibility of going to Burundi,
please update us in the SA Soldier
magazine concerning the companies
that are to be deployed in the near
future.
The SA Army is an agile, balanced,
deployable capabilities, and structured
to execute both force preparation and
operations at the tactical level of war.
The SA Army is led by well-trained,
educated, and visionary leaders who
are capable of dealing successfully with
issues that are complex, uncertain and
volatile under their command. We also
intend seeing our unit standards rated
the best of the best of all the regiments.
The facilities of the SA Army unit
are strategically placed throughout
South Africa. Units are not only
located in accordance with appreciated
operational needs and requirements,
but are also in close proximity to
force projection infrastructure, which
enhances training requirements.
Facilities are tailor-made to support
The SA Army has an appropriate
and cost-effective army force
preparation system, based on
contemporary doctrine and tactics,
techniques and procedures. Realistic
individual and force training permits
the provision of dynamically led,
combat-ready land forces capable of
conducting successful operations
Kindly help us to restructure
this matter and focus on an army
for the future. Should there be any
raise this matter in black and white to
allow input from our fellow readers.
Thabang Excellent Nkadimeng,
Middelburg
8 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

letters to the editor
S A S O L D I E R
DISCIPLINE TAKES YOU PLACES
From ages past, cleanliness and
neatness have always been two of
the principles in the military that
take precedence in the conduct of
the organisation. Neatness is one of
discipline of all members.
L Cpl Siphokazi Dlakamela is a
former Military Skills Development
System (MSDS) member who stresses
neatness and discipline as two of her
principles, not only in the conduct
of the organisation, but also in her
lifestyle. The South African Military
Health Service (SAMHS) is proud to
have her as one of the most disciplined
soldiers in the organisation.
L Cpl Dlakamela was raised in the
Eastern Cape, in a small town called
Willowvale. She started her education
at Bojeni Primary School and later
went on to study at Badi High School
in 2002.
In the quest for self-empowerment,
L Cpl Dlakamela managed to obtain a
three-year Diploma in Business Studies
The renovation of the swimming pool
dates back to 1997 when the army
base was still under the command
and control of the Signallers. They
started renovating the pool, but never
completed the project because of the
lack of funds and their movement to
Pretoria in 1999.
Since then the swimming pool has
been closed and could not be used by
the unit or other organisations within
the Heidelberg area.
The planned renovation and
upgrading of the swimming pool and
changing rooms started in 2004 and
at the Department Public Works
(DPW). Numerous challenges where
encountered, such as the availability
of funds from the SA Army Council,
specialist contractor and also the
completion of the scope of work (tender
bill).
For several years the goal failed
to materialise and this frustrated
and demoralised the SANDF, DPW
and also the end-user, the SA Army
Gymnasium. In 2008 the unit raised
the need regarding a functional
site meeting was held at SA Army
Gymnasium in October 2008.
L Cpl Siphokazi Dlakamela
achievement as the neatest
recruit during basic military
training. (Photo: Lt Sello Segone)
SA ARMY GYMNASIUM SWIMMING POOL
After the site meeting certain
challenges were noted. In 2010 the unit
was informed that the approved plans
had to be signed and submitted to DPW
to allow the project to continue.
In November 2010 Morekuri CC
was appointed as the main contractor
the swimming pool. The swimming
Commanding of the SA Army Training
Formation, at A Army Gymnasium on
26 January 2012.
With this world-class half Olympic
swimming pool, the SA Army
Gymnasium has the ability to provide,
teach and improve the swimming skills
of each soldier that moves through the
unit on a yearly basis.
The swimming pool will ensure that
all soldiers at the SA Army Gymnasium
will be safe in the water by presenting
basic water orientation, lifeguard and
swimming instructor courses facilitated
by the Joint Physical Training, Sport
and Recreation Training Centre and
Swim South Africa. The swimming
pool also provides an opportunity for
members to take part in recreational
and sporting events such as galas, open
water swimming and triathlons. Maj
P.P. Xaba, Heidelberg
and Commercial Practice from Walter
Sisulu University in 2005.
L Cpl Dlakamela later moved
to Saldanha in search of a job. She
started working as a cashier at a
Vredenburg retail outlet for ten
months until she got another job at
the West Coast Business Development
Centre, where she worked as a
Business Administrator for young and
upcoming entrepreneurs.
L Cpl Dlakamela was taught from
childhood to be neat and clean.
Her career in the DOD symbolised
the beginning of a different era for her.
She knew another phase in her life
had ended and the next sunrise would
bring a new day, new challenges and a
new step in her military career. Giving
her best in everything she does, L Cpl
Dlakamela has managed to obtain
neatest recruit during basic military
training. Pte Tshegofatso Rakoma,
email
DON’T LET FAILURE
KEEP YOU DOWN
If one fails, one should not acquiesce
in it, but get up again. Never give
up trying. We sometimes give
in to the idea of failing because
others undermine us or we fear the
possibility of getting something
wrong.
should never be prevented by past
wrongs. Courage and hope are
powerful weapons to face challenges.
Failure if not overcome, will haunt our
minds like an undefeated enemy.
The real battle will not be the one
we have already won but the ones we
have lost or failed at. Failure is not
continue to fail and it is also life’s way
of saying “pull up your socks and give
it another try” and if you cannot then
you have lost the game of life.
Prevention of failure is up to every
individual. You must stand up and
play a vital role to uplift yourself so as
to achieve the golden goals you have
set yourself and no one can do that
except yourself. Rfn P.H. Damente,
Port Elizabeth
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 9

S A S O L D I E R
events
A milestone in 43 SA Brigade
15 year span
By Cpl Itumeleng Makhubela
Photo: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole
Formerly known as 43 Mechanised
Headquarters, 43 SA
Brigade celebrated its 15 th
birthday after successfully
conducting various course
support and force preparation
exercises. The event to mark the
brigade’s milestone took place at
43 SA Brigade HQ at Wallmannsthal
on 30 March 2012.
The history of the brigade dates
back to the late 1990’s when the 43
Mechanised Brigade HQ provided
the Headquarters of the Combined
Southern African Development
Community (SADC) Task Force.
From January 2000 to October 2002,
43 SA Brigade HQ functioned as
the rear headquarters supporting
the SANDF Special Contingent as
part of Operation MISTRAL in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo
(DRC). At very short notice the Brigade
HQ deployed with the South African
Protection Support Detachment
(SAPSD) in Burundi for Operation
FIBRE and maintained the HQ for the
SAPSD in conjunction with 46 Brigade
HQ until November 2002.
The year 2009 was also one of the
highlights in the Southern SADC
region when 43 SA Brigade provided
the Military Component Force HQ
for the SADC Standby Force during
Exercise GOLFINHO. It still has
this responsibility as well as that of
providing the headquarters of the
Chief of the SANDF Rapid Force.
“The birth process of 43 SA Brigade
HQ was a long and painful event. It
developed out of the virtual rapid
deployment force established in 1990 at
the then Army Combat School.” These
Commanding, Brig Gen Lawrence
Smith, when he addressed guests and
members on parade during the 15 th
year celebrations of 43 SA Brigade.
Members of 43 SA Brigade on parade during their 15 th birthday
celebrations.
He added: “It was later designated
as 43 Mechanised Brigade HQ under
the command of Col Izan Leibrandt,
also at the Army Combat School. The
HQ was formally established as a
tactical brigade HQ at Wallman nsthal
on 2 April 1997.”
Brig Gen Smith indicated that three
years ago the Chief of the SA Army
entrusted 43 SA Brigade HQ with
combat readiness and development
of the airborne capability due to its
constant successes in achieving a green
status over the past few years.
“I am personally of the opinion that the
most important accomplishment of 43
SA Brigade HQ as a military institution
is that we succeeded in empowering
and recycling many competent,
SA Army. I can only hope that this
can continue in future years,” said
Brig Gen Smith.
The Brigade also provides practical
staff who mentor the students on
course. Brig Gen Smith said he would
continue to encourage his members
to do the great work they were
doing and help them to grow in this
profession.
Most recently these continuation
training and force training exercises,
such as Exercise SEBOKA, have been
executed at regular intervals. The
mission of the 43 SA Brigade is to be
prepared to deploy on operations
when so ordered.
10 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

training
SA Navy Protocol Course
S A S O L D I E R
By Capt (SAN) L. Mpetsheni,
SSO Foreign Relations
Photo: LS N.C. Zulu, Internal Corp
Com Clerk
The Chief of the SANDF, Gen
Solly Shoke, instructed that
there should be a pool of
trained Military Liaison
They should always be ready
to be called up and utilised as and
when needed. This comes as South
Africa continues to host international
military conferences and symposia,
such as the Indian Ocean Naval
Symposium, the SADC TROIKA and
the Africa Aerospace and Defence
Expo (AAD) that will be held from 19
to 23 September 2012.
are considered to be the face of the
South African National Defence Force
(SANDF) and the whole nation to
visiting dignitaries and diplomats.
Hence the need for thorough
training of MLOs has to be of central
importance in providing the correct
Defence Foreign Relations (DFR) coordinates
protocol courses. DFR, in
collaboration with SA Navy Foreign
Relations, presented an MLO course
Pretoria from 12 to 16 March 2012.
The Chief Defence Foreign
Relations, Maj Gen Dan Mofokeng,
emphasised the importance of a
trained group of MLOs that can
be called upon to assist at big
events, people skilled to work
time. Although one might think
that protocol is elementary and
common knowledge, one must
always remember that an MLO not
only projects himself or herself,
but also the SANDF as an entity.
There should always be sensitivity
towards precedence, positions and
international codes of conduct. Coordination
and communication
between the service providers are also
essential. They should accommodate
each other and share their experiences
during training and co-ordination
meetings. During the course the roles
of VIP Protectors, ceremonial services,
including the MLOs and protocol
and business etiquette, were
discussed.
R Adm (JG) Patrick Duze,
Commandant of the SA National War
course and assisted in the handing
In his speech, he encouraged the
participants always to remember that
they will act as ambassadors of South
Africa to all international guests that
visit our shores.
Maj Gen Dan Mofokeng, Chief Defence Foreign Relations (front middle), and some of the members who
participated in the SA Navy Protocol Course.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 11

S A S O L D I E R
events
South Africa and Sultanate of
Oman strengthen ties
By Ms Thobeka Magcai,
Editor Navy News
Photo: AB Judy Baatjes
After ten years of deliberating,
the Sultanate of Oman’s
Ministry of Defence and
the Ministry of Defence in
South Africa have entered
into a memorandum of
understanding (MOU) in the areas
of acquiring state of the art military
defence systems manufactured in
South Africa, the exchange of armed
forces for military training and
defence co-operation and medical
services.
The MOU was signed at the Castle
in Cape Town on 13 March 2012 by
the Minister of Defence and Military
Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, and
her Omani counterpart, Mr Sayyid
Bader Bin Saud Bin Harib Al-Busaidi,
minister responsible for defence affairs
in Oman.
The delegation included the Oman
Ambassador to South Africa, Mr
Khalid Bin Sulaiman Ba-Omar, and
senior members of the Oman Defence
Force, the Secretary for Defence
(SA), Dr Sam Gulube, the Chief of
the SANDF, Gen Solly Shoke, and
senior members of the Department of
Defence (SA), including the Deputy
Chief of the SA Navy, R Adm Sam
Hlongwane. Speaking through an
interpreter, the high level visiting
delegation led by Mr Sayyid Bader Bin
Saud Bin Harib Al-Busaidi elaborated
on the agreement and said the Omani
Government was celebrating the
strengthening of diplomatic and
military co-operation with South
Africa.
Mr Sayyid Bader Bin Saud Bin Harib
Al-Busaidi said: “We in the Omani
Ministry of Defence have acquired
some military defence systems from
South Africa. We have also exchanged
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu,
and her Omani counterpart, Mr Sayyid Bader Bin Saud Bin Harib
Al-Busaidi, sign a memorandum of understanding on defence cooperation.
armed forces and medical services
personnel some of whom are currently
serving in Oman. We celebrate the
renewal of the co-operation between the
two countries.”
On the issues of the training exchange
programme, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu said
South Africa was particularly interested
in learning how Oman was defending
its coastline as the rapid increase of
maritime crime threatened the global
economy. The Southern African
Development Community (SADC)
Standing Maritime Committee of the
Inter-State Defence and Security Council
(ISDSC) met in Durban recently for the
adoption of an accelerated and intensive
anti-piracy strategy between the SADC
countries, in the interests of protecting
the economies of the region.
The Sultanate of Oman is situated in
Southwest Asia, on the southeast coast
of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders
the United Arab Emirates in the northwest,
Saudi Arabia in the west, and
Yemen in the south-west. The coast is
formed by the Arabian Sea in the south
and east, and the Gulf of Oman in the
north-east. According to omansultanate.
com, the country may not produce as
much oil as most of its neighbours in
the region, but the Sultanate of Oman
largely depends on the oil trade, which
has seen an increase in production in
recent years. Its economy also depends
Dates and limes make up most of the
agricultural exports.
12 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

events
Minister Sisulu commits
to the Defence Industry
S A S O L D I E R
By Cpl Itumeleng Makhubela
Photo: Mr Kgabo Mashamaite
The Minister of Defence and
Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe
Sisulu, said a change of date
was required on the Industry
Day to allow budget processes
in parliament to be approved.
annual Department of Defence (DOD)
Industry Day that took place at the
CSIR in Pretoria on 22 March 2012.
Minister Sisulu said: “I am hopeful
that in the future we can turn this day
to concrete use – one where we not
only exhibit what the South African
Defence Industry can produce, but
to one where engagement with the
South African National Defence Force
(SANDF) will assist the industry
to know what the priorities of the
SANDF are, to enable the industry to
understand where we are headed and
allow them to invest meaningfully in
those products which are prioritised.”
industry are required to address the
needs of the SANDF to enable it to
meet its constitutional obligations.
The industry permits the costeffective
purchase of certain products
and systems, ensures life cycle
maintenance and support of such
systems, and performs refurbishment
and upgrades of existing equipment.
The Government also supports
the export initiatives of the Defence
Industry by permitting it to contract
and honour obligations, which have
been duly approved. However,
the Government reserves the
right to prohibit or withdraw such
international or national interests at
any time. Minister Sisulu said she
is expecting the Defence Review
Committee to start with its public
interaction around May 2012 and the
inclusion of the Defence Industry
would be critical. Its processes should
be completed by the end of July 2012
to enable parliament to deliberate and
adopt it as policy by the beginning of
the third quarter.
She also mentioned that the
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu,
accompanied by the Secretary for Defence, Dr Sam Gulube, and the
Chief of the SANDF, Gen Solly Shoke, at the Defence Industry Day.
Department is faced with the new
circumstance of having to look after
military veterans: “The Defence
Industry is therefore called upon to
assist in this very important endeavour,
by looking at ways and means to
accelerate incorporation of military
veterans into the industry’s economic
stream, both at individual level, by
offering employment and training
where possible”.
The Chief of the SANDF, Gen
Solly Shoke, had also reiterated that
the Defence Industry makes most of
its revenue out of the SANDF and as
such, military veterans are part of the
SANDF community, towards which
the industry should direct its corporate
social responsibility.
Minister Sisulu said the DOD is
embarking on a number of initiatives
in realisation of its objective on
assisting members of the Military
Veterans Association to enter into the
commercial arena in a sustainable
fashion. She had made a plea to the
Defence Industry that its employment
veterans.
The SA Defence Industry Council
was launched during that day and will
be under the stewardship of the Deputy
Minister of Defence and Military
Veterans, Mr Thabang Makwetla.
Minister Sisulu said the council is be the
highest consultative body between the
Defence Industry and the DOD that will
be responsible for policy formulation,
compliance, support, armaments
acquisition, etc.
Minister Sisulu said: “It will consist
of the Secretary for Defence, the Chief
of the SANDF, the Deputy Director
Generals responsible for acquisition
and industry governance, the CEO of
Armscor and representatives of the
Defence Industries as designated by
the Aerospace, Maritime and Defence
(AMD) Board. When required, we will
departments.”
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 13

S A S O L D I E R
events
Exercise GOOD HOPE V
By Cpl Ally Rakoma
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
With the piracy threat
steadily approaching
the region, the South
African National
Defence Force (SANDF)
has once again
successfully concluded a series of
maritime exercises along South
African waters over the period 5 to
23 March 2012. The tasks were part
GOOD HOPE between the SA
Navy and the German Navy, which
included the SA Air Force.
The aim of Exercise GOOD HOPE
V, which was conducted off Durban
and Simon’s Town and along the
eastern and southern coasts of South
Africa, was to build interoperability
and mutual understanding between
the two forces and to enhance the SA
Navy’s capability in terms of antipiracy
actions off the East Coast of
Africa.
Capt (SAN) Micky Girsa, Commander of the SA Navy Task Group
AMATOLA (left), and Capt Eike
Wetters, Commander of the German Navy Task Group, during a
AMATOLA.
sharing of expertise, enhancing
maritime security, strengthening
military co-operation and preparing
all aspects of maritime warfare,
including the anti-piracy operations.
an asymmetric threat scenario
was conducted. This included
a demonstration of sea and air
manoeuvres utilised during antipiracy
deployments, boat drills,
Special Forces’ unopposed boarding
and capture of pirate vessels
utilising air support, co-ordinated
anti-submarine exercises, maritime
interdiction operations, search,
localisation and interdiction of
maritime groupings associated with
piracy, smuggling, terrorism and
threat of piracy at sea, replenishment,
towing exercises, simulated anti-ship
awareness.
Exercise GOOD HOPE V is the largest
maritime training exercise undertaken
by the German Task Force Group
outside of its North Atlantic Treaty
Organisation (NATO) obligations. This
year, the German Navy deployed a
Type 122 frigate, FSG LÜBECK, two
for surface search and anti-submarine
warfare) and specialised marine forces.
The SA Navy included Meko class
frigates, SAS ISANDLWANA and SAS
AMATOLA, a MK 64 Lynx helicopter,
the Type 209 submarine, SAS QUEEN
MODJADJI I, as well as Special Forces
and Maritime Reaction Squadron
elements.
The demonstration was concluded with
the SAS AMATOLA, which addressed
the achievements and lessons learned
during the exercise. Capt (SAN) Micky
Girsa, the Commander of the SA Navy
of SAS AMATOLA, mentioned that
the successful culmination of the
exercise was a force multiplier. He
added that the global objective of
Exercise GOOD HOPE had always
been to conduct joint multinational
exercises focused on conventional
warfare, but the 2012 Exercise GOOD
HOPE V has concentrated more on the
asymmetric threat of piracy, so this
Wetters, Commander of the German
Navy Task Group, said that the
exercise was successfully executed,
well planned and professionally
led by the SA Navy. He said that
collectively they had learnt through
each other’s perspectives during a
complex series of intense exercises.
The Commander of the German
14 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

events
S A S O L D I E R
ABOVE: A demonstration
of troop extraction by the
South African Special
Forces after executing a
maritime counter-piracy
operation.
ABOVE: A combined Special Forces
and Maritime Reaction Squadron
team maintaining an effective lookout
to engage pirates.
ABOVE: A Lynx
maritime helicopter
hovering over SAS
ISANDLWANA
demonstrates its
sea and air defence
techniques.
LEFT: A tactical movement by
a combined Special Forces and
Maritime Reaction Squadron
team to provide vessel
protection.
Navy Task Group added:
“One of the highlights
was the SAS QUEEN
MODJADJI I submarine
giving us a hard time
during the anti-submarine
warfare exercise. It was
extremely evasive and
went undetected, despite
the best efforts of FSG
LÜBECK and her Sea
Lynx helicopter with
specialised dipping
sonar.”
RIGHT: Flight deck
crew securing the Lynx
maritime helicopter on
board SAS AMATOLA.
ABOVE: A close-up of a
German Lynx helicopter during
a fast-rope exercise.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 15

S A S O L D I E R
events
The SANDF participates
in the 2012 Rand Show
By Kgabo Mashamaite
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
supported by helicopters, artillery and
Show on Friday, 6 April 2012. It all
started when the four paratroopers
The Rand Show which ran
from 6 to 15 April 2012 at
the Nasrec Expo Centre was
used as a precursor to the
SANDF’s celebration and
honouring of Mr Nelson
elected President of South Africa and
South African National Defence Force
(SANDF), as well as Military Veterans
for the roles they played in bringing a
democratic order to this country.
BELOW: The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe
Sisulu, inspects the contents of the ration packs of deployed soldiers
doing duty away from their home units, while Capt Sipho Mathandi
demonstrates a deployed soldier’s posture in his Bevy tent.
The SANDF is currently on a
recruitment drive to identify and
enlist best talent to help the SANDF
by the migration of skilled personnel
who have left the SANDF for various
reasons.
visiting the SANDF
exhibition stand, where
the SANDF was making
its second appearance in
seven years, the Minister
of Defence and Military
Veterans, Ms Lindiwe
Sisulu, urged the members
of the public who wished to
become soldiers to visit the
information centre to get
application forms.
Minister Sisulu said: “South
Africans interested in
joining the SANDF should
take this opportunity to get
more information on various
career options on offer
and familiarise themselves
with these so that they can
make an informed decision
about the kind of careers
they would like to follow
in the organisation.” The
to the SANDF display
stations was triggered by a
spectacular demonstration
of defence capabilities
that featured a simulated
casualty evacuation exercise
ABOVE: Capt Mathe Lesenyeho from the SAMHS School for Military
Health Training Emergency Care Practitioners demonstrating an emergency
surgery procedure to a Grade four learner, Kamogelo Leduma (with a pair of
scissors), from Meredale Primary School and his friend at the Rand Show.
16 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

events
S A S O L D I E R
of the trade, including the
type TC 665 Transport
Decompression Chamber
used to cure decompression
sickness of divers. Leading
Seaman Tumelo George from
the Maritime Search and
Rescue Unit in Simon’s Town
was among the SA Navy
demonstrators at the Rand
Show.
ABOVE: The Secretary for
Defence, Dr Sam Gulube,
delivering his keynote address
at the opening of the 2012 Rand
Show.
from 44 Parachute Training School at
Tempe were dropped into the main
arena to simulate a downed aircrew. A
transport helicopter and fast-roped to
the crash site, while a Rooivalk attack
helicopter circled in the background
vehicle to provide mobile support for
the ground forces. As the rescue team
set up a perimeter around the aircrew,
a “technical” with hostile forces
at the supporting soldiers.
rescue team used its two 81 mm
to send the hostiles, who were only
downed crew and rescue team were
then airlifted out of the battle zone by
Oryx helicopters.
Delivering his speech during the
opening of the consumer show the
Secretary for Defence, Dr Sam Gulube,
on behalf of the Minister of Defence
and Military Veterans, said that the
event provided the opportunity to
develop a dialogue between the
members of the public and the SANDF
and showcase various kinds of
military hardware used in the defence
of their democracy.
Dr Gulube said: “The main objective
of being present at the show was
ABOVE: SA Navy members
demonstrating to the public the type
TC 665 Transport Decompression
Chamber used for curing
decompression sickness of divers in
case of a diving mishap.
to communicate with the public, our
major investors and stakeholders
in the SANDF to provide them
with information on the exciting
opportunities within the organisation.
All Services are all represented here
today. We are building an SANDF
where our young men and women are
given the opportunity to pursue their
dreams.”
After the war simulation exercise, the
military stalls became a hive of activity.
Men and women, young and old,
received an opportunity to touch and
feel the combat equipment on display,
which was similar to that used during
the capability demonstration.
Among the biggest attractions were the
were on display. Some of this artillery
equipment was in action during the
capability demonstration at the opening
of the event. It proved to be a hit with
the South Africans who preferred to
take pictures holding and wearing
combat gear and equipment.
The SA Air Force brought along the
Rooivalk combat support helicopter,
and cargo parachute equipment from
101 Air Supply Unit.
The SA Navy brought along its tools
LS George said: “The
decompression chamber is
always loaded onto the boat
when diving exercises are
conducted. This equipment
can be pressured to the depth
(about 55 metres) where the
diving accident happened
and can be brought up
slowly to the surface until the
patient is stable. It can load
the patient and the assistant
who will be responsible for
administering medication.
Once the patient is stable
he or she is referred to a
medical institution where
comprehensive medical care
will be available.”
Another attraction was the Riverine
Patrol Boat used for surveying shallow
waters where the main hydrographic
vessel, SAS Protea, cannot sail. The
vessel is used to establish benchmarks
for the survey along the coast. It
has four crew members: Coxswain,
Navigator, LMG Gunner and the
Heavy Machine Gun (HMG) gunner.
It is used to create charts for safe
navigation by other boats at sea.
The School of Military Health
Training demonstration was also
a popular attraction. People were
provided with life-saving skills
presented by Maj Lesetja Ramashitja,
the Principal of the School for
Military Health Training, and a
Bachelor of Technology (B Tech),
Capt Mathe Lesenyeho and Lt Daddy
Care Practitioners. They provided a
captivating presentation and received
great reviews for their hard work.
Other activities at the event included
the pace-stick competition conducted
by the SA Army Gymnasium Pacestick
Drill team, the presidential
motorcade demonstration by the
Military Police Division, the SAMHS
Pipes and Band and the SAMHS
canine demonstration, among others.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 17

S A S O L D I E R
events
Chief of the SA Army
visits SA Army units
By Lt Col Annelize Rademeyer,
SO1 Communication: SA Army
Photos: Maj Lizette Lombard
The Chief of the SA Army, Lt
Gen Vusi Masondo, embarked
on a visiting schedule to almost
all SA Army units during
March 2012. The schedule
should be completed early in
July 2012.
He indicated that although these visits
and taking over process between
himself and the previous Chief of the
SA Army, now Chief of the SANDF,
Gen Solly Shoke, it was important to
him to visit units in order to address
SA Army members personally and to
Normally such a visit to a unit
starts with feedback reports
and presentations to the Chief, a
walkabout and spot inspections,
whereafter Lt Gen Masondo addresses
all members of the unit.
Lt Gen Masondo visited the SA Army
Signal Formation on 23 March 2012.
In his address to all members of the
Formation Headquarters and units
under command in the Pretoria area,
he mentioned that he was feeling like
he was coming home, as he had served
with both 3 Electronic Workshop and
the Formation Headquarters earlier in
his career.
He indicated to members that in
his opinion the SANDF and the SA
Army were currently fully supported
by both the Commander-in-Chief,
President Jacob Zuma, and the
Minister of Defence and Military
Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sizulu. Lt Gen
Masondo said: “There is progress in
the process to move away from the
Department of Public Service and
Administration (DPSA) and improve
the remuneration of soldiers.”
He mentioned that during his visit
he had seen the poor state of some
buildings. Lt Gen Masondo said: “It is
wrong to think that your leaders do not
care about your well-being or working
conditions.” He indicated that Minister
Sisulu and the Minister of the Public
Works, Mr Thembelani “Thulas” Nxesi,
were acting to solve the challenges
with regard to facilities within the
Department of Defence.
Lt Gen Masondo said that he expected
each and every soldier to behave in
a manner expected of soldiers. He
indicated that discipline was one of the
most important characteristics of the
military. He said that the SA Army in
ABOVE: Lt Gen Vusi Masondo,
Chief of the SA Army, signing the
visitors’ register of 2 Signal Regiment
Commanding 2 Signal Regiment,
looks on.
future would not want to attract job
seekers, but people with the correct
that all soldiers should sharpen
their skills in order to work better,
and urged members to make use
of opportunities such as studies at
State expense.
He congratulated and thanked
the SA Army Signal Formation for
its support, at very short notice,
concerning the welcoming parade
of the Cuban Vice-President, Mr
Carlos Lage Davila, at Defence
Headquarters in Pretoria early in
January 2012.
ABOVE: Lt Gen Vusi
Masondo, Chief of the SA
Army, talking to members
receiving IT training at the
School of Signals.
18 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

events
S A S O L D I E R
Chief of the SA Navy
briefs the media
By Ms Bibi Sibanyoni
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
The Chief of the SA Navy, V
Adm Johannes Mudimu,
hosted a luncheon with
members of the media at
the Admiralty House in
Simon’s Town on 15 March
2012. V Adm Mudimu with his SA
Navy Command Council addressed
the press about developments
pertaining to maritime security
challenges facing the SA Navy,
South Africa and the Southern
African Development Community
(SADC) regions.
issues, such as naval exercises both
locally and internationally for 2012,
maritime security challenges and
strategy, operational readiness of the
frigates and submarines, the future
plans for the SA Navy, as well as the
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium
which is to take place in Cape Town
from 10 to 13 April 2012.
V Adm Mudimu said during the
that my team and I can interact
with you after such a long time,
something overdue. It is, however,
my great pleasure to announce that
we as the SA Navy have been hard
at work and the work is evident for
all to see.
“Just last month we had our Security
Maritime Committee with the SADC
region build up a strategy to combat
crime in our waters, and it was a
great success.”
in Malawi, which saw the arrest of seven
pirates, assistance in the Tanzanian ferry
da Cunha and Exercise Good Hope,
which is held every two years.
Despite the underfunded budget for
2012/13 the SA Navy will
still be fully operational
and capable of carrying
out any operations
mandated by Joint
Operations. R Adm Bernie
RIGHT: Behind the
Chief of the SA Navy,
V Adm Johannes
Mudimu, are the
frigates that were on
display during the SA
Navy Festival.
Teuteberg, Chief Director Maritime
are in full operational capability,
however it is not often that we deploy
all our frigates and submarines at
the same time. However, if the need
arises, we will be ready.”
Some of the achievements of
the SA Navy were sustained
operations from Pemba in northern
Mozambique, Exercise Good Lake
The Chief of the SA Navy, V Adm Johannes Mudimu (left), and the
Chief Director Maritime Strategy, R Adm Bernie Teuteberg.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 19

S A S O L D I E R
events
A changing of command
for the Infanteers
By Cpl Ally Rakoma
Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma
The Chief of Human Resources,
Lt Gen Themba Nkabinde,
handed over the Sword of
the relinqishing of command
of the SA Army Infantry
Formation to the incoming General
Gen Lindile Yam, during the change
of command parade held at the SA
Army College in Thaba Tshwane on
2 March 2012.
Shortly before their arrival on the
podium, the two military leaders
were met by a colourful ceremonial
parade consisting of Infantry Regular
and Reserve Force units. Before Lt
Gen Nkabinde bade farewell to the
SA Army Infantry Formation he
inspected the parade. A battalion in
review was conducted, the colour
followed by the elite paratroopers
executing an impressive free fall
before handing over the scroll.
Lt Gen Nkabinde served as the
SA Army Infantry Formation from
2003 to 30 September 2011. He was
promoted to the rank of Lieutenant
General from 1 October 2011 and
appointed as the Chief of Human
Resources.
the infanteers on being dynamic and
SANDF. In welcoming his successor,
he said that leadership was about
relationships between the leading
and the led. He borrowed these wise
words from Gen Sir Mike Jackson:
“the most powerful secret in creating
Formation, Lt Gen Themba Nkabinde (left), hands the Sword of
Command to his successor, Maj Gen Lindile Yam, during the change
of command parade at the SA Army College.
a great organisation is having every
single person to think in a common
way about the meaning of success and
how it is delivered. Building a great
organisation is more than getting the
right people and equipment, without
a common frame of reference for
success, there is no chance of success”.
He congratulated his successor and
wished him well as he assumed his
new roles and responsibilities as head
of the SA Army Infantry Formation.
Maj Gen Yam was appointed as
the newly appointed General
Army Infantry Formation with his
promotion to the rank of Major
General on 1 November 2011.
After taking the oath and a solemn
undertaking to lead the SA Army
Infantry Formation, Maj Gen Yam
admitted that leadership, command
and caring for those in his charge
were the most important elements in
the SANDF.
20 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

news clippings
S A S O L D I E R
People’s Liberation Army of China visits the SANDF
Article and photo by
S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole
The Deputy Chief, General
Logistics, People’s Liberation
Army of China, Lt Gen Qin Yinhe
and his delegation paid a working
visit to the South African National
Defence Force (SANDF) from 18 to
20 March 2012. The visit happened in
the context of further strengthening
the ties of friendship and cooperation
that exists between the two
Armed Forces.
During his stay in South Africa,
Lt Gen Qin Yinhe and his delegation
visited the DOD Logistic Division
and SA Military Health Service
Headquarters. At the end of his visit
Lt Gen Qin Yinhe expressed deep
Lt Gen Qin Yinhe, Deputy Chief, General Logistics, People’s
Liberation Army of China, welcomed by Maj Gen Lesley Ford, Chief
Director Military Health Force Support, at DOD Logistic Division.
gratitude to the SANDF and the people
of South Africa for the warm welcome
and hospitality extended to him and
his delegation.
Good service rewarded
By Ms Bibi Sibanyoni
Photo: S Sgt
Lebogang Tlhaole
Members of the
Defence Inspectorate
Division were
awarded medals for
good service rendered
at a Medal Parade held
at the SA Army College
in Thaba Tshwane on 9
March 2012.
Seven deserving
recipients were
honoured in this way.
Maj Gen Mxolisi Petane,
Inspector General of the
Department of Defence,
congratulated them
saying: “You should wear
your medals with pride
as these medals are a
symbol of good quality
service delivery and I am
proud to have you receive
such medals within the
military”.
Members were awarded the
Good Service Medal (Silver) and
the Tshumelo Ikatelaho (General
Service Medal). The Good Service
Medal (Silver) has been awarded by
the President and reinstituted by
a warrant dated 6 November 1997,
The members who receive medals awarded by the Inspector General of the
SCWO Fanie Roos (Warrant
Gen Mxo Petane (Inspector General of the DOD), Capt (SAN) Eugene Dudley,
Maj Rufus Moropane, Col Xoli Nengudza and WO1 Thomas Ramagelela.
to South African National Defence
Force (SANDF) members who have
distinguished themselves by long and
The Tshumelo Ikatelaho (General
Service Medal) was also awarded by
the President, instituted on 27 April
2003 by a warrant dated 16 April
2003, to members of the SANDF
who distinguished themselves by
rendering military service directly in
or in support of a military operation.
During the parade Maj Gen Petane
encouraged members of his division
to continue working towards such
rewards.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 21

S A S O L D I E R focus on women
DOD International Women’s
Day Leadership Seminar
By Mr Kgabo Mashamaite
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
Almost 300 senior South African
National Defence Force
(SANDF) female and male
their civilian counterparts
from other Divisions within
the Department of Defence (DOD)
have committed themselves to
empowering their junior women
colleagues.
The declaration was made during
the DOD International Women’s
Day Leadership Seminar, themed
“Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures”
that was held at the SA Air Force
College in Thaba Tshwane on 28
March 2012.
The aim of the event was to assist
The theme of the DOD International Women’s Day
Leadership Seminar was “Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures”.
LEFT: Maj Gen
Ansuyah Fakir, Chief
Director Transformation
Management, called
on all members to
contribute to the
nurturing of the young
talent of future women
leaders.
Gen Ansuyah Fakir, Chief
Director Transformation
Management, called on
all members to contribute
to the nurturing of the
young talent of future
female leaders. Maj Gen
Fakir also warned that
unless all colleagues were fully
committed to the implementation of
the transformation agenda across all
Services within the Department, this
important occasion might be reduced
to a mere talk shop and all efforts
will come to nought. She called on
by identifying deserving candidates
and providing them with relevant
material for growth and development
within their respective careers.
ABOVE: Fltr: Lt Nobenguni Nkosi, SO3 Career Management
(Catering Personnel) at SA Army Support Formation, Sgt
Moleboheng Modise, Combat Readiness Clerk at SA Armour
Formation, and CO Dina Lebelo, SO3 Career Development from SA
Army Support Formation, are aspiring women leaders who appealed
in implementing the Government’s
policies of women empowerment
through the mentoring of their junior
female colleagues by highlighting the
22 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2
critical roles of senior women leaders in
order to shape the development agenda.
During her welcoming address, Maj
Among the invited guests was Brig
T.H. Jozi from the South African
Police Service (SAPS), who was
instrumental in ensuring the
within the SAPS. Brig Jozi told the
seminar to inspire young leaders and
ensure that they transferred those
skills learned to their peers. She
further advised that women should
also focus and study hard to advance
their careers.
A Life Coach and a friend to the
SANDF, Ms Minah Sindane-Bloem,

focus on women
S A S O L D I E R
LEFT: Senior SANDF female
to the guidelines for mentoring
aspiring junior women
colleagues.
the programme director of the event,
said that the women occupying senior
positions within the Department
should conduct self-introspection and
ask themselves what kind of legacy
they were leaving at the end of their
public service careers.
In the company of delegates were
aspirant female leaders from various
formations, such as Lt Nobenguni
Nkosi, SO3 Career Management
(Catering Personnel) at SA Army
Support Formation, Sgt Moleboheng
Modise, Combat Readiness Clerk at
SA Armour Formation, and CO Dina
Lebelo, SO3 Career Development from
SA Army Support Formation. These
three aspiring women leaders appealed
young women and help them to
advance their careers within the
SANDF.
To demonstrate the high regard the
event accords the transformation
agenda within the Department,
delegates formed four syndicate
groups in order to come up with
strategies for mentoring, and
enhancing good governance,
individual and collective
accountability and ownership in
pursuit of the Defence mandate. The
work groups focused inter alia on
barriers to progress and on creating
an enabling environment, women
development opportunities, securing
stakeholders buy-in as well as
mentoring strategies.
Focus on International Women’s Day
By Ms Bibi Sibanyoni
Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma
All over the world women celebrate
International Women’s Day on 8
March, an annual event that brings
joy to women from all walks of life.
The members of the SANDF Spouses
Forum celebrated this day at the SA
Air Force’s Generals House in Pretoria
on 31 March 2012.
At this gathering the Chairperson
of the forum, Ms Charlotte Shoke,
extended a hearty invitation to the
Defence Attachés and ambassadors’
wives from other countries. It was
Women’s Day.
These women came prepared to
learn from each other and to compare
notes for the future growth of the
forum as a means of helping fellow
soldiers’ wives at lower ranks.
Ms Funke Ajani, who represented
the international spouses of all
ambassadors and defence attachés,
said: “It is in such forums that women
and enrich women’s lives, especially
those of our fellow soldiers on lower
Ms Charlotte Shoke, Chairperson of the
SANDF Spouses Forum (left), received a
token of appreciation from Ms Funke Ajani,
who represented the international spouses
of all ambassadors and defence attachés.
ranks. This forum should seek ways of
building women’s skills development
the SA National Defence Force.”
Brig Gen Marthie Visser, Director
Corporate Staff in the SA Air Force, gave
a presentation on the role of women
in the SA Air Force.
She pointed out that
military women still
faced great hurdles,
but continued the
determined to win.
She said: “Hence we
have a number of
achievements in the SA
Air Force. Our greatest
achievement was
that of Maj Catherine
Labuschagne who
Gripen pilot in the
world, an achievement
on which we pride
ourselves. There
are other women
achievers who made
their mark in the force
commanding of SA Air Force units.
“Yes, we have progressed immensely
over the years, but more work still
needs to be done. We as the older
generation should equip these young
women, especially those who join the
force.”
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 23

S A S O L D I E R
events
SA Navy lights up Simon’s
Town
By Ms Bibi Sibanyoni
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
day also contributes
a notable highlight to
our 2012 calendar as the
SA Navy celebrates its
90
“This th birthday, and once
again we are afforded
an opportunity to exercise the right
of entry parade into Simon’s Town to
relationship between the community
of Simon’s Town and the SA Navy.”
These were the remarks of the Chief
of the SA Navy, V Adm Johannes
Mudimu, during the opening of the
2012 Navy Festival.
Members of the SA Navy are proud to grace this town with
weapons drawn, flags flying high and drums beating and it
serves as a recruiting tool for the SA Navy, as it attracts youth
that are keen to join the SA Navy.
The People’s Navy once again opened
its gates to the community of Simon’s
Town during the three-day Navy
Festival from 16 to 18 March 2012.
Over the years this event has became
RIGHT: Members of the
Maritime Reaction Squadron
demonstrate how they arrest
pirates at sea during a piracy
simulation drill.
ABOVE: Members of the Maritime Reaction Squadron showcase their capabilities.
24 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

events
S A S O L D I E R
ABOVE: The SA Navy exercising its right of entry
parade into Simon’s Town.
ABOVE: The Executive Deputy Mayor of
Cape Town, Mr Alderman Ian Neilson, and
the Chief of the SA Navy, V Adm Johannes
Mudimu, watch the parade from the podium.
a tradition in this community and
it attracts hundreds of people, some
also from neighbouring towns such
as Saldanha. Members of the SA Navy
are proud to grace this town with
drums beating.
The festival also serves as a recruiting
tool for the SA Navy, as it attracts
youth that are keen to join the SA
Navy. It demonstrates its capabilities
to the public, informs the community
about the work done by those in
uniform and serves as a platform
to educate the public about the
importance of securing the seas.
This ceremony has a deep historical
of troops were not allowed to march
through towns without seeking the
permission of the city
fathers, who would only
grant such permission if
they were assured of the
intentions of the soldiers
concerned.
The granting of
permission for bodies of
armed militia to enter
a city became a mark of
the part of the citizens.
Such right of entry was
only granted when the
that the soldiers would
protect their interests
them. The Navy Festival symbolises
existing between the SA Navy and the
community of Simon’s Town.
V Adm Mudimu emphasised the
important role the SA Navy plays in
the community and said: “The broader
agenda of safeguarding South Africa
for a better life for all has brought with
it recognition that security and human
development cannot be separated, and
the one hand, and collective human
security and the well-being of our
people on the other, are inextricably
linked. This has been so fundamental
to our naval strategic intent and
perspective.”
He added that this increasing awareness
of escalating maritime crime and piracy
have led to the SA Navy participating
to the fullest extent in upholding
the maritime security agenda of the
country and region and, in so doing,
enhancing collective human security
both nationally and continentally.
V Adm Mudimu urged the community
to visit the stalls and all the naval
vessels on site. He said: “It is also
an honour for me to tell you that
today you will get the opportunity of
seeing the submarines diving below
the surface. This the members of the
opportunity some SA Navy admirals
have never had.”
The highlight of this year’s festival was
the visit of INS Dhashak from India
the hydrographic vessel which will
also be taking part in Exercise GOOD
HOPE. SA Soldier had the honour of
talking to the Executive Commander
on board, Cdr Sanjay Kestwal, who
expressed his gratitude for the warm
welcome to South Africa. He added
were happy to have come to build new
relationships with us and to showcase
the vessel’s ability to draw maps on
board and scan and conduct surveys at
sea that might help eliminate piracy.
With so much activity going on,
members of the community followed
V Adm Mudimu and other admirals
to the outer basin to view the piracy
simulation by the Maritime Reaction
Squadron. The SA Navy is indeed the
People’s Navy.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 25

S A S O L D I E R
training
University
Reserve Training Programme
By Capt (SAN) Michal Grobbelaar,
Training Programme
T
University Reserve Training
Programme (URTP) that will
be presented over two years,
commencing in April 2012. It
will be completed in December
2013. The learners are all second year
level engineering students at the
University of Cape Town (UCT) and
the University of Stellenbosch (US)
in the Mechanical, Electrical and
Chemical disciplines. Unfortunately
the University of the Western Cape
does not have an Engineering faculty
and no engineers could be obtained
from this institution. The students are
from Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Free
State, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the
North West.
It is envisaged that future URTPs
would be extended to other
universities and universities of
technology and would include all
academic disciplines. It was decided
that the pilot URTP would enable 20
learners to follow the URTP and that it
would be conducted at Naval College
Gordon’s Bay, close to the main Naval
Base in Simon’s Town where there
are adequate training establishments,
facilities, equipment and resources all
in the Western Cape area.
The SA Navy URTP differs from the
SA Army URTP in that provision
is made only for engineers and not
for other academic disciplines. The
uniqueness about the SA Navy’s
URTP is that special provision must
be made for students to do their
required vacation engineering phases
during their URTP. The URTP can
only be presented during the recess
periods of the universities and
this has necessitated that a unique
course consisting of military training
and engineering vacation work
for engineers as prescribed by the
universities be incorporated.
After a series of consultations with the
Capt (SAN) Michal Grobbelaar,
Reserve Training Programme.
Engineering faculties and the Naval
Engineering Section of the SA Navy,
it was decided to appoint a full-time
vacation engineering training that will
be done at the facilities of the False Bay
College at their West Lake campus. The
learners will be treated as full-time
students with very intensive technical
programmes and they will also be
accommodated on the premises.
Any private student who is not part
of the URTP can apply to False Bay
College and follow the same course.
Interested students should contact Dr
Chris Merts, Occupational Training
Manager: False Bay College, on
021 0030592 or 083 377 1515 or email:
chris.Merts@falsebay.org.za.
This engineering vacation course
has been fully accredited by both
universities, and students will
be exempted to do their practical
workshop training at the universities.
Although all the learners will follow
the same military training, the
engineering vacation training will
vary according to the academic year
of the individual student, for example
second year students will do their
engineering maintenance training,
third year students the full project
management phase and fourth and
required script. In this respect the SA
Navy and the respective universities
have reached an agreement that the
SA Navy will be able to submit topics
for the scripts that will relate directly
to maritime matters and the SA Navy
engineers will act as tutors for the
students.
The URTP will be conducted in two
major courses, namely the Basic
Military Course in 2012 and the
2013. The BMT course is structured as
follows:
• 31 March to 5 April. One week of
military training at Naval College.
• 2 to 20 July. Three weeks’
engineering vacation training at
False Bay College (depending on
academic year).
• 3 to 7 September (US) and 10 to
14 September (UCT). One week
of engineering vacation training
at False Bay College (depending
on academic year). The vacation
periods of US and UCT do not
correspond. This phase will be
presented separately to US and
UCT.
• 19 November to 7 December.
Three weeks’ military training at
Naval College.
In brief terms, the engineering
vacation training will consist of the
following (very brief synopsis on
opposite page):
A detailed analysis of the
comprehensive training is available on
request (see contact details below).
During the Basic Military Training
(BMT) Course (2012), all learners
will have the rank of Seaman. On
26 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

training
S A S O L D I E R
SECOND YEAR STUDENTS
Period Duration Activity
Jun - Jul 3 weeks Project: Stripping and reassembling of an
engine, including maintenance, repair, fault-
Aug - Sep 1 week Basic handtools and workshop skills.
THIRD YEAR STUDENTS
Period Duration Activity
Jun - Jul
Aug - Sep
4 weeks Project: Full cycle of project management,
including manufacturing of a small-scale
bread oven.
Jun - Jul 0,5 week Organisational structure and processes in
an engineering institution.
1,5 week *Welding: Make a bread oven.
1 week *Fitting and turning: Make a hammer.
Aug - Sep 1 week Electrical: Building of circuits and fault-
requirements.
During the URTP training, learners
will be remunerated according to their
ranks, receive naval uniforms, and be
entitled to medical during the training
members.
Since the development of the SA
Navy URTP, very strong relationships
between the SA Navy and the
universities have been fostered.
On 30 January the academics from
both universities, their lecturers and
administrative staff were briefed and
entertained in Simon’s Town. On 13
February all the prospective URTP
students had the same opportunity
to obtain more information on their
future part-time careers.
successful completion of the BMT,
they will be appointed to the rank of
Midshipman for the duration of the
(MTO1).
The envisaged URTP MTO1 course
for 2013 will be similar to the 2012
course, except that an additional
phase of three weeks will be added
in January/February. On successful
completion of MTO1 course, learners
will receive their commissioned rank as
in a Reserve capacity as and when
needed according to the SA Navy’s
* Interested students at the University
of Cape Town and the University of
Stellenbosch or any tertiary institution
who would like to obtain more information
on the URTP or the engineering vacational
phase of the URTP can contact Capt
(SAN) Michal Grobbelaar at 082 783 7469
or mjgrobbelaar@yebo.co.za for more
details.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 27

S A S O L D I E R
focus on youth
Young recruits report
to serve the nation
Addressing the recruits, Maj Gen Veldtman said: “All of you are volunteers and none of you
were forced, but you decided to open a new chapter in your career to serve the people of
South Africa.”
By Lt Mmata Raphala,
PRO School of Infantry
The Chief of Army Corporate
Services, Maj Gen Sazi
Veldtman, accompanied by
his Personnel Assistant, Capt
Thabile Tambekile, visited the
School of Infantry on behalf of
the Chief of the SA Army, Lt Gen V.
Masondo, on 18 and 19 January 2012
to welcome the 2012 Military Skills
Development System (MSDS) recruits
to the SA Army.
Addressing the recruits, Maj Gen
Veldtman said: “All of you are
volunteers and none of you were
forced, but you decided to open a
new chapter in your career to serve
the people of South Africa. If you
came here looking for employment,
you are at the wrong place, because
you are here to serve and not to live
a protected life. You have a two-year
contract, following which you will
join the Reserve Force. I urge you to
have a copy of your contract and if
the SANDF would like to renew your
contract due to your performance and
attitude, it will do so as the SANDF
have the right attitude to carry this SA
Army into the future.
“There is nothing wrong being
Reserve Force members because the
SANDF relies on them. Now you
as young men and women wearing
this ‘cammo’ uniform today; you are
the Pride of the Nation. You are post-
‘94 soldiers and we will make good
soldiers of you because good soldiers
make good citizens and you will be
different to civilians.
“You will be trained in the art of war,
which implies that you will be trained
to kill and your mindset must adapt
to this reality, whether in Human
Resources or other Corps. In this
uniform you are on duty 24 hours a
day and you must know how to kill
and that requires you to have discipline
when in and out of uniform. Above all,
you are all volunteers as I said before,
no one forced you. In this organisation
we do not vote for our leaders or
commanders. We function by means
of commands and instructions and we
do not discuss commands. You either
accept our old proven military way of
life, discipline and the Code of Conduct
or you get out and give others a chance
out there who missed this opportunity.
“As a volunteer to defend the State, you
are State property, so you belong to the
nation because the nation that does not
invest in its youth is predicted to fail.
The MSDS develops the skills of our
youth that undergo Military Training
to protect this country.
“According to Military Command
you do not jump your immediate
commander and report to another
commander, so some of you will
experience hardship here and
report to your uncles and aunties
in higher HQ and in Parliament.
Nobody outside the military will or
can dictate how the military must
operate, especially here at the School
of Infantry. And if you do jump
channels, you will be charged and
marched out of this Unit and the DOD
as a whole.
“Be disciplined and do the right
thing even if there is no one
watching you. There are two types of
discipline, mechanical and conscious
discipline. Mechanical discipline
is doing something correctly from
fear of punishment or to impress
someone, but when you are alone you
misbehave. You should be conscious
of doing the right thing even in
the absence of the observer. Do we
understand each other – Yes, General!
“We are happy to receive you at
the SA Army and here we insist on
discipline, and you will be taught
battle discipline and you must
maintain it and uphold yourself and
this organisation.”
Maj Gen Veldtman concluded: “The
Chief of the SA Army, General
Masondo, said I must tell you that you
are the future and the rejuvenation of
the SA Army.”
28 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

focus on youth
S A S O L D I E R
First SA Army female
motorcycle rider of colour
By Capt T.B. Goqwana,
Specialist Branch
Commander
Photo courtesy L Cpl
T.F.H.B. Thompson
“It was the second
week of the
Riding and
Maintenance
Learning
Programme
when we started with
‘Exercise Stoot’, pushing
the motorcycles with full
protective gear on, not
forgetting the scorching sun
of the small Little Karoo town
of Oudtshoorn,” said Rfn
Monique van Zyl. Rfn Van
Zyl joined the Military Skills
Development System (MSDS)
at the age of 22 at the School
of Infantry in 2011. She was
among the 50 recruits that
were sent to Junior Training
Wing (Specialist Branch)
with eight female soldiers at
the start of the MSDS intake
to do a seven week long
Riding and Maintenance
Learning Programme. As
soon as they arrived we
called them biker queens, but
unfortunately some of them
fell along the way. However,
she was the one that had the
courage of a Zulu warrior
and she retained this title.
“One thing I really hated
was when the motorcycle
fell down and these thin arms had to
pick it up. I never thought I would be
able to accomplish this up hills, not
to mention jumps and stone riding.
When I passed the K53 yard test and
received the licence I felt as if I was on
cloud nine,” Rfn Van Zyl enthused.
It was not over yet, as she had to
Area Protection Learning Programme
and skills to be utilised in a motorcycle
platoon in an operational area. In the
beginning it was laughter, negativity,
tears, bruises and injuries, but
eventually she got to the enjoyment
part. She did very well, gained a lot
of knowledge and obviously muscles.
Rfn Van Zyl is a motivation to
other women in the SA National
Defence Force and an example that
if you believe in yourself, you can
want. Long live bikers!
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 29

S A S O L D I E R
insight
Force preparation is crucial
for developing disciplined
military leaders
By Lt Col Annelize Rademeyer,
SO1 Communication: SA Army
Photo courtesy Engineer Terrain
Intelligence Regiment
Maj Gen L.C. (Spinks)
Nobanda bade the SA
Army Engineer Formation
farewell on 20 January
2010 at the Military Base
Dunnottar when he handed
over command to Brig Gen A.M.Z.
Msi.
In his speech he asked members to
support the new Chief of the SA Army,
Lt Gen Vusi Masondo, in his quest to
allow every member of the SA Army
inculcate the military culture that was
based on a high standard of discipline.
Maj Gen Nobanda wished Brig Gen
Msi well with his command of the
Formation. He indicated that the SA
Army Engineer Formation had never
let the SA Army down, had had stood
up to challenges and refused to be
defeated. He said that Brig Gen Msi
had a winning team around him
tested and knowledgeable military
engineers.
Now, after three months in his
new post as Chief SA Army Force
Preparation, Maj Gen Nobanda
answered three questions on the
subject of Force Preparation. He
indicated that each and every question
actually was a subject on its own, but
tried to keep his answers short.
What in your opinion, should Corps
Schools do to be successful training
institutions
block when it comes to training as
they play a crucial role in developing
Corps Schools should focus on their core business, which
is the training and preparing of soldiers. They should always
come up with new and innovative ways of conducting training
and imparting knowledge.
an individual soldier
to master his or her
After completing
the basic military
training the next
phase for any soldier
is courses to ensure
that he or she is
competent enough
to perform his or her
job.
To be able to produce
these competent
Corps Schools
should be staffed
with experienced
instructors who are
as they are expected
to provide advice
and guidance, be it in
equipment or the art
of war.
Commanding have
a very serious role
to ensure that those
who are staffed
and appointed as
instructors at our
Corps Schools are
men and women of
high calibre who lead
by example and act as role models to
those under their instruction.
There are other things that are also
important to complement instructors,
The newly appointed Chief SA Army Force
Preparation, Maj Gen Spinks Nobanda.
and I would like to summarise these
of “POSTED” (personnel, organisation,
sustainment, training, equipment,
30 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

insight
S A S O L D I E R
doctrine) as without them good
instructors will not achieve much.
The simple answer to the question
asked is that Corps Schools should
focus on their core business, which is
training and preparing of soldiers. In
the SA Army (SANDF) Corps Schools
which implies that they should be
professional in whatever they are
doing.
Corps Schools should always come
up with new and innovative ways of
conducting training and imparting
knowledge. Research and development
should be central to their business and
never accept that what they have is
enough. Although we have introduced
new technology to the SA Army most
of our courses are still based in the pre
1994 era, although the new soldiers are
a totally different breed.
Our young soldiers are technologically
inclined so they get very bored sitting
and listening to long-winded lectures,
and would like to play with the
computer. It is important therefore that
Corps Schools are supported with the
right technology.
Simulation is the other alternative to
enhance training as it will not only
save us lots of money in the long term,
but also bring another dimension to
training. Training must not only be
relevant to what soldiers do on the
business. Corps Schools should not
be afraid to test new ideas as long as
this is done in a responsible manner,
which will lead to an improvement
in our processes. The focus of our
effort then should not be the quantity,
but on the quality of our training.
Benchmarking, exchange of students
and instructors must be utilised to test
if our training standards are in line
with international standards.
What is the role of Physical Training,
Sport and Recreation (PTSR) in our
organisation and does sport receive
enough attention
PTSR in broad terms entails many
activities, which should lead to combat
readiness and esprit de corps. The SA
Army’s approach to PTSR is simple in
that we do training. PTSR as part of
combat readiness has been relegated
to the back burner and does not receive
the same attention as normal training.
This is unfortunate because there is a
lot the SA Army can contribute given
the fact that we have so many young
men and women under the Call Service
System (CSS) contract who have just
completed their basic military training.
The former South African Defence
Force used to produce Springboks
although it was heavily involved
in operations both internally and
externally. The difference as far as I am
concerned is that they had a plan and
the will despite not too much money.
It is therefore critical that if we want
to push PTSR within the SA Army
there must be a comprehensive PTSR
Sometimes you do not need loads of
and open space, both of which we
have in abundance within our units.
Like many things in the Army PTSR
is also a command responsibility and
plan and ensure that PTSR is promoted
within their units.
I am happy to inform you that
during the Chief Directorate Army
Force Preparation work session in
Bloemfontein early in February 2012,
the role of PTSR as a force multiplier
was discussed and we all agreed that
we need to come up with a plan to
support Director PTSR at DOD level.
There is a lot to be done in this regard,
put our heads together we shall come
up with a very good plan on how
to promote PTSR in the SA Army. It
would be very nice to have for example
an SA Army soccer, netball, swimming
team participating in the national
league; and that is the target.
What makes a good SA Army soldier
Soldiering is universal and one
thing that is common to all soldiers,
irrespective of country or race, is
discipline. I know this sounds like
a broken record because it has been
played and said a thousand times
before, but without discipline the SA
Army cannot exist as a unit.
To take this further the SA Army will
not be able to operate as a unit during
operations, and this will result in loss
of life.
although as soldiers we know that
a possibility exists sometime in the
future that we may lose our lives
prematurely through enemy action.
In order to make good soldiers the
SA Army should not accept underperformance.
Mark Lambert, the Chairperson
of Massmart (2008) quoted David
Susman, the founder of the
Woolworths philosophy of excellence
known as “divine satisfaction”, which
means that you are pleased with the
results. This sounds contradictory
and in some instances senseless, but
the bottom line is we must never be
to aspire to excellence in whatever
we do. If we do that, the quest for
excellence becomes a way of life. It
is therefore important to understand
that the good soldier must continue to
improve. Coupled to good discipline is
leadership and, in my mind, these two
cannot be separated.
Firstly, with leadership you are able to
provide direction and set standards to
enforce discipline in order to achieve
the desired results. Leadership creates
success. Before making good soldiers,
can lead and not be afraid of making
unpopular decisions, even at the
expense of their own popularity.
Soldiers who emulate their immediate
be provided with the correct training
and assistance to command. Our
everything, be it shooting, physical
training or sport.
I have noticed in the last few years that
participate in their sub-unit activities
their cellphones or at computer games.
Training also contributes to making a
good soldier. This should be realistic
and the SA Army training belief comes
to mind, namely “Train as We Fight”.
The more training we do the better our
soldiers will be.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 31

S A S O L D I E R
environmental matters
JSB Garrison celebrates
National Water Week
Article and photos by S Sgt
Lebogang Tlhaole
Joint Support Base Garrison
celebrated National Water Week
with a series of events with the
theme “Water is life conserve
it, respect it, and enjoy it” on 22
March 2012.
The event started at the Thaba
Tshwane City Hall where the unit
members received a presentation
from the Department of Water and
Environmental Affairs on water
conservation, water security, food
security and to use water sparingly.
Thereafter Regional Works Unit
Gauteng gave a demonstration on
how to clear invasive plants and
exotic trees that used lot of water.
Every year during March the
Department of Water Affairs
celebrates National Water Week in
South Africa, which also features
World Water Day on 22 March. The
aim of this campaign is to raise
awareness among South Africans
about the role of water in social and
economic development, including the
need to encourage citizens to change
their attitude towards water use.
and diminishes any potential for the
suitable productive use of the land.
Operation Vuselela is a strategic
partnership between the Departments
of Defence and Water and
Environmental Affairs in association
with various military veterans’
organisations to clear invasive alien
plants on military properties while
empowering unemployed military
veterans.
It also provides a sustainable and
reliable rehabilitation and restoration
initiative that has critical ecological
water security, biological diversity,
the ecological functioning of natural
systems, the productive use of land
The campaign emphasises water
conservation as one of the major
interventions that South Africans
need to appreciate if we are to
guarantee water security and
availability for the country. It also
highlights the centrality of water as a
resource in the well-being of both the
environment and people.
JSB Garrison utilised members of
Operation Vuselela to restore DOD
land by clearing invasive plants.
The DOD administers vast tracts of
Government land, some of which is
infested by invasive alien vegetation
that harms the ecological balance
ABOVE: JSB Garrison Environmental Services
cutting the grass where the parade ground will be
built for Regional Works Unit Gauteng.
ABOVE: A
member of
JSB Garrison
and Operation
Vuselela
clearing
invasive plants
and exotic
trees that
use a lot of
water, as part
of National
Water Week.
32 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

environmental matters
S A S O L D I E R
ABOVE: JSB Garrison utilised members of Operation Vuselela to
restore DOD land by clearing invasive plants.
and a reduction in the intensity of
This is done through labour intensive
social development initiatives that
affect employment opportunities,
training, capacity building,
community empowerment, social
development, life skills enhancement
and exit plans for workers and
other staff, which can result in the
creation of sustainable employment
opportunities. The cleared land will
be utilised by the newly formed
Regional Works Unit Gauteng.
Water saving tips
In and around the house/business
Turn the tap off between washing
your face, brushing your teeth or
shaving.
day, instead of a bath, will use a
third of the water used in a bath
tub and saving up to 400 litres a
week.
Showering can use up to 20 litres
of water per minute.
the bath tub.
Taking a bath can use between 80
and 150 litres of water per bath.
brim, but with just enough water
for your needs. This will reduce
your electricity bill too.
cooking pots, as this will require
more energy to heat the water.
alone can save 20% of total water
consumption. This can be done by
putting a 2-litre cold drink bottle,
to add weight, into the cistern.
Fix a leaking toilet, otherwise it
can waste up to 100 000 litres of
water in one year.
unnecessarily. Dispose of tissues,
insects and other waste in the
trash rather than the toilet. Every
of water is used.
Use “grey water” - used water
from baths, washing machines
your toilet.
backwash your swimming pool.
Use a bucket rather than a hose to
wash your car. If you have to use
a hose, use a sprayer that can be
turned off in-between spraying
the car. Using a garden hose
could use as much as 30 litres of
water per minute.
Do not pour paint and chemicals
down the drain.
Farmers must ensure that they
keep toxic insecticides away from
water sources and streams.
Factories should take care of how
they discharge mercury and other
heavy metals into waste water.
People living in rural areas
should be careful not to use the
river or riverbank as a toilet.
In the garden
Always water your plants during
the early morning hours or in the
evening, when temperatures are
cooler. Between 10:00 and 15:00
one can lose up to 90% of water to
evaporation.
Every time you boil an egg, save
the cooled water for your house
nutrients released from the shell.
Focus on indigenous and nonwater-consumptive
alien plants,
but not invasive alien plants.
Group plants according to their
water needs and place mulch
around them.
Water gardens less frequently, but
water well. Using a garden hose
could use as much as 30 litres of
water per minute.
Remove invasive alien plants on
your property.
stored in tanks for watering
gardens.
Use “grey water” - used water
from baths, washing machines
and other safe sources - to water
your garden.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 33

S A S O L D I E R
focus on people
End of tenure for another
SA Navy stalwart
By LS N.C. Zulu,
Internal Corp Com Clerk
Photos: LS T. Sehloho
“I
have come to the end of my
‘working career’ and have
taken the opportunity to
call it a day at the end of
February to enjoy a few
carefree years with my wife
and family. I would like to use this
opportunity to say thank you to the
thousands (literally) who contacted
me by telephone, email, fax, or visited
SA Navy Headquarters in Pretoria
over the past 13 years and 3 months.
It was a pleasure to be of service to all
(members and non-members alike)
and I would also like to urge nonmembers
(in uniform, Public Service
Act Personnel, Reserve Force or exmembers
of the SA Navy) to join the
R44-00 are not available anywhere else
today.”
These were the heartfelt sentiments
from the outgoing Navy Fund
Secretary for the past 13 years, WO1
(Ret) T.E. Adams, affectionately
known as “Uncle Tom”, as he bade
farewell to the SA Navy for the very
farewell during a farewell luncheon
hosted by the Chief of the SA Navy,
V Adm Johannes Mudimu, and
members of the Navy Command
Council, which took place at SA Navy
Headquarters on 8 March 2012.
WO1 (Ret) “Uncle Tom” Adams was
born in Citrusdal in the Western Cape
on 27 March 1942. He joined the SA
Navy on 2 April 1962 (as 1 April was
a public holiday). His basic military
training was from 2 April to 31 May
1962 and he completed the rest of
the training on SAS Bloemfontein
(a training ship anchored in the old
yacht basin) from 1 June to 9 August
1962. Then he completed his basic
communications course (to qualify
as a telegrapher, also known as a
“sparker”) from 10 August 1962 to 31
March 1963. He then served on SAS
Good Hope, SAS
President Kruger,
SAS President
Pretorius, SAS
President Steyn,
SAS Tafelberg
and SAS Protea.
He also served at
Cape Naval Radio
Communication
Centre Cape
Silvermine, Naval
Communication
Centre Walvis Bay
and Special Forces
Headquarters in
Pretoria.
He took early
retirement on 31
December 1992
and joined the
WO1 (Ret) T.E.
Adams as a young
Able Seaman.
Navy Fund on
1 December 1998. WO1 (Ret) Adams’
advice to young members in the SA
Navy is: “Apart from doing your best
every day, be respectful, be polite, be
friendly, be helpful, be willing to help
others. I would like to urge all nonmembers
of the Navy Fund to become
members and to take out an Extended
(at least) and other family members to
you (the member) or a family member
passes away.
WO1 (Ret) Adams said that there were
two persons in particular who inspired
him during his military career, namely
the late WO1 George Drayton who
inspired him because of his smartness
and neatness in uniform. The other
person who inspired him was Cdr (Ret)
Mickey Warr, his class instructor at
the SA Navy Signal School in Simon’s
Town on his basic telegraphist ’s course
(from August 1962 to March 1963) for
his time and patience in teaching a
young ex-farm boy, who could hardly
communicate in English, to become a
‘sparker’.
His favourite hobbies are to listen to
short-wave radio, i.e. radio amateurs
WO1 (Ret) “Uncle Tom”
Adams, the outgoing Navy
Fund Secretary, hard at work.
and overseas radio stations. He enjoys
gardening, including cutting the
lawn, planting vegetables, trimming
the trees and shrubs. He also enjoys
painting the house and doing repairs
in and around the house, working on
the computer, copying music from
long-playing records/music cassettes
onto CD (only if the original copy
is available) and has started to copy
videos onto DVD (still in a trial and
error stage).
He has been a member of the
“Tradisionele Boeremusiekklub van
Suid-Afrika” since 1987 and enjoys
the “boeremusiek” of the pre-1960’s.
He also serves on the head committee
of the club and keeps a database of
membership, membership fees and
birthdays.
WO1 (Ret) Adams is married to
Poppie. He has two children of his
own and two stepchildren. They also
have eleven grandchildren.
“We stay in Valhalla in Pretoria, anyone
is welcome to come around to 80
Bruarfoss Road for a cup of tea on the
front stoep,” WO1 (Ret) Adams said in
extending a friendly invitation …
34 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

competition
S A S O L D I E R
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 35

S A S O L D I E R
focus on women
SANDF Spouses Forum adds a
renowned member to the team
By Ms Bibi Sibanyoni
Photos: Sgt Elias Mahuma
Members of the SANDF
Spouses Forum held a
meeting at the SA Army
Foundation in Centurion
on 12 March 2012. This was
a special event to welcome
Honorary Colonel Yvonne Chaka
Chaka as a mentor of the forum.
The Chairperson of the SANDF
Spouses Forum, Ms Charlotte Shoke,
welcomed Mama Chaka Chaka as part
of the forum. As an Honorary Colonel
of the SA Air Force and ambassador
the SANDF Spouses Forum to help
achieve their visions.
In her address Honorary Colonel
Chaka Chaka said: “I am proud that
you have chosen me to be part of this
great initiative that boosts the morale
of your husbands and promotes the
reputation of the organisation as a
whole and seeks ways to overcome the
challenges of soldiers.
“I have been honoured to work
closely with the wives of presidents
from other African countries. It is
something I am passionate about, but
as the saying goes: charity should
begin at home. I have met most of your
husbands and today is a happy day for
me to meet with the wives who make
sure that the generals of the SANDF
are well taken care of.
“It is women like you who hold much
responsibility and who should be
caregivers to your husbands, as their
jobs are stressful. Women should
empower themselves too as good
partners and as businesswomen
who will contribute greatly to our
community of SANDF soldiers.
This forum is doing a good job, but
ABOVE: Honorary Colonel Yvonne Chaka
Chaka addressing the SANDF Spouses
Forum.
it should also be publicised at the
optimum level. I can tell you now
that there are people who would be
interested in sponsoring this forum.
“My passion about women’s
empowerment has led me to adopt a
clinic in Kenya and I am currently in
the process of adopting another one in
Namibia. I donated a car in Tanzania
after I saw a woman carrying her sick
ABOVE: Ms
Charlotte Shoke,
Chairperson of the
SANDF Spouses
Forum (middle),
Colonel Yvonne
Chaka Chaka and Maj
Gen Keith Mokoape,
the CEO of the SA
Army Foundation,
and members of the
forum.
child to the clinic which was a 7km
walk from the village, something that
pained my heart so much.”
In closing, she said that she also
would like to interact with the soldiers
on deployment, as they are prone
to contracting malaria. She said she
would like to educate and motivate
them as their work was appreciated
beyond the SANDF.
36 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

ook review
Know your inner strength
S A S O L D I E R
Article and photos by
S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole
Ms Shareen Chuene
launched her book
titled, “Know your inner
strength” at the National
State Library in Pretoria
on 23 March 2012. She is
currently employed by the South
African National Defence Force
(SANDF) at Army Headquarters.
Through this book the author
tells her story of rising above
her circumstances, trials and
tribulations. The book is dedicated
to her late mother, Ms Rosie Ntuli,
and her late sister, Ms Octavia Ntuli.
She thanks God for giving her an
opportunity to share her time and
space with these incredible human
beings. She loves and misses them
dearly.
The book, “Know your inner
strength” describes the will-power
and the determination to rise above
one’s circumstances, trials and
tribulations. It is about believing in
oneself, so much so that one knows
that one can rise above any situation.
It is facing one’s fears, to basically
look fear in the face and know that
one is bigger and better than it.
The author said that most of the
time we look outward for strength,
whereas there is inner strength that
we possess. She added that we must
this ability and strength to overcome
and raise us above and beyond
every challenge that life throws at
us. All of us have the ability to climb
our way up after we have hit rock
bottom, as long as we can tap into
our inner strengths.
The book has eight chapters that
focus on the desired outcome, which
is to realise the inner strength that
we possess, which will carry us
through and turn our situation
around. The book encouraged us
strength and tap into it. We need to
know that we are the CEO of our
lives, and with God as the author,
and director of our
lives we can achieve
and overcome
anything. We must
not let anybody’s
limited perception
are and what we can
achieve or overcome.
It also teaches us
positively. As human
beings we are our
own critics. We
criticise ourselves
all the time, tending
to overlook the
goodness in us and
to concentrate on
what is negative in
us. Unfortunately,
we dwell on those
negatives in our lives
and nurture them.
The author, Ms
Chuene, was born in
Pretoria, brought up
by a single mother
in the township
of Mamelodi,
and raised in a
dysfunctional
family under
very challenging
circumstances.
However, she
weathered every
storm and raised
herself against all
odds.
ABOVE: Ms Shareen
Chuene, the author of
the book, “Know your
inner strength”.
A bundle of beauty and brains, she
studied at the Tshwane North College
where she obtained a Higher Diploma in
Marketing Management and a Bachelor
of Arts Degree in Communications
Science from the University of South
Africa (Unisa).
A regular international conference
facilitator, Ms Chuene has travelled
extensively across the globe to share
her passion and serve humanity. She is
happily married to Mr Oupa Chuene and
they are blessed with three daughters,
Kgatelopele, Tlotlego and Rehauhetswe.
ABOVE: Ms
Shareen Chuene,
the author of the
book, “Know your
inner strength”
signing copies of
her book during
the launch at the
National State
Library in Pretoria.
Ms Chuene has
acknowledged
God as her Father
and her Lord and
Jesus Christ as her
the Lord and thanks Him for being
the light in times of darkness. She
said if it were not for the grace and
love of the Father, where would she
be She says people will come and go
in our lives, but God will always be
around.
You can purchase the book for
R130,00 at all convenient bookstores
around the country or you can
contact the author, Ms Shareen
Chuene, on 083 612 0334 or email her
on shareenchuene@yahoo.com to
purchase a copy of the book.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 37

S A S O L D I E R
focus on health
World Haemophilia Day
Article and photo courtesy Martine
Nicholson Associates Newsdesk
Haemophilia is a relatively
rare blood disorder that
leads to abnormal bleeding.
Although not very common,
it is important for parents
to be aware of this medical
condition so that they are able to
identify it and have their children
treated if necessary. There have been
of haemophilia recently, which is
increasingly allowing patients to live
normal lives. World Haemophilia Day
is observed on 17 April 2012.
What is haemophilia
The blood of haemophiliacs does not
clot properly and people with the
condition tend to bleed easily after
suffering even just minor cuts and
abrasions. In more severe cases, people
who suffer from haemophilia may
even bleed internally.
Haemophilia is an inherited blood
disorder passed down via the mother
who possesses the defective gene to
her sons.
Girls are very rarely diagnosed
with the condition, which is almost
exclusively suffered by males. Sons
“carriers” of haemophilia will have
a 50% chance of being born with the
condition. These female carriers may
also pass on their carrier status to their
daughters. Sometimes very mild forms
of the condition are found in carriers.
Different types
There are three different types of
haemophilia. Haemophilia A is by
far the most common form of the
condition and occurs in around 1 in 10
000 male births. Haemophilia B and
C are less common and are relatively
rarely encountered.
Haemophilia may range in seriousness
from mild to severe. In mild cases the
patient may only bleed badly when he
suffers a trauma, while in severe cases
he may even bleed spontaneously.
This is because those who have the
more serious form of the disease have
fewer clotting factors in their blood
and they tend to bleed very easily. Not
surprisingly, the severe patients are
cases.
In those patients who suffer
spontaneous internal bleeding, it
usually occurs in the joints and
muscles. Repeated bleeding into
the joints can cause them to become
deformed and may even result in a
patient becoming disabled. This is one
of the reasons why it so important to
identify and treat haemophilia at an
early age.
Treatment
Treatment of haemophilia is usually
provided in the form of an infusion,
which is given intravenously or via
a drip. Infusions help the blood to
clot better and prevent uncontrolled
bleeding.
Haemophiliacs will have blood
They will therefore be provided
with the factors (ie Factor VIII or
Factor IX) they require. These will
be given via the infusions. The
infusions are usually obtained from
donor blood, although there is also a
form available today that is derived
from the laboratory.
It may be necessary for those
haemophiliacs whose joints
have become damaged from
excessive bleeding to be prescribed
painkillers and to undergo surgery.
Medicines that can cause bleeding,
such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-
all costs.
Prevention
Women can be tested to see whether
they are carriers of the condition. If
they are, they may opt not to have
children if they feel it is a risk. Those
women who have a family history of
haemophilia may wish to know if they
have inherited the “carrier” genes.
What to watch out for
in less severe cases. However, parents
should seek medical attention if their
child is bleeding and bruising severely
from apparently minor wounds
and bumps. It should be noted that
bleeding is not easy to stop in those
suffering from haemophilia.
Improving quality of life
While haemophilia cannot be
completely healed and patients may
need to avoid their rougher or boyish
activities while they are growing up,
treatment is helping sufferers to enjoy
a vastly improved quality of life when
compared to just a few years ago.
This is true even for the more severe
cases. Doctors say that infusions are
helping to cut down on hospital time
and are reducing joint deformity, thus
allowing haemophiliacs to live regular
lives.
* Sources
South African Haemophilia Foundation,
http://www.haemophilia.org.za/
Medical News Today, http://www.
medicalnewstoday.com/info/
hemophilia/
Health24, www.health24.com/medical/
Head2Toe/777-778-779,13623.asp
38 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

focus on youth
S A S O L D I E R
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 39

S A S O L D I E R
focus on sport
SANDF rugby players
participate in the “Help For
Heroes” rugby challenge
By Col G.S. van Eeden, Vice
President Media, Com and Fin
S
Sgt Kobus Basson and Cpl
Inus Ras, two SANDF rugby
players, had the opportunity
of a lifetime to play in a special
rugby match at the famous
Twickenham Rugby Stadium in
London.
This match was organised by “Help
for Heroes” (H4H), the British
counterpart of Curamus, the South
African charity striving for the
raising of funds for the rehabilitation
of servicemen and women injured
during operational duty.
In March 2011 the British Deputy
Defence Adviser in Pretoria
forwarded an invitation to the
Chairperson of the SANDF Rugby
Association for the selection of
SANDF rugby players to participate
in a rugby match between an H4H
XV (Northern Hemisphere) and a
Southern Hemisphere XV team. S Sgt
Basson and Cpl Ras were selected as
the two outstanding SANDF Senior
Team Players for 2011 and were
subsequently selected to represent the
SANDF at this prestigious event.
This match was a follow-up on a
rugby match played in September
2008 during which H4H raised £1,46
million for the construction of a new
swimming pool and gymnasium
facilities at the Tri Services
Rehabilitation Centre at Headley
Court in Surrey.
Based on the success of the 2008 match
it was decided to stage a second and
bigger rugby match to raise more
funds for H4H during 2011, which
resulted in the match played on 3
December 2011. 2011 marked the 10 th
anniversary of British involvement in
Afghanistan. In particular the match
was aimed at raising over one million
pounds for H4H in order to make
ABOVE: S Sgt Kobus Basson with Joe
Roff.
construction of new Recovery Homes for
injured Service personnel. The idea was
also to donate as much as 30% of match
New Zealand and South Africa.
The teams competing in the match
of 3 December 2011 were comprised
ABOVE: Cpl Inus Ras
scores a try.
of composite selections of
players drawn from the United
Kingdom and Southern
Hemisphere, including some
players and a few of the best
players from the Armed Forces.
The Southern Hemisphere
team was coached by Nick
Mallet, a former Springbok
coach, and Wayne Smith,
assistant coach of the victorious
All Black team at the 2011 Rugby
World Cup. Adam Thompson, a
member of the 2011 All Black team,
captained the side which included
all-time greats such as Joe Roff
from Australia and Justin Marshall
from New Zealand. A.J. Venter,
a former Springbok lock/loose
forward, was also part of the squad
40 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

focus on sport
S A S O L D I E R
that included sixteen current and
former international players in total.
It was a privilege for our boys to
play alongside these stars and they
certainly learnt a lot.
The two members departed from OR
Tambo International Airport on 27
November 2011 and arrived in Britain
on 28 November 2011. The teams
same afternoon that they were briefed
about the forthcoming event and the
aim and goals of H4H. The day was
concluded with S Sgt Basson being
interviewed by the local radio station.
Except for sightseeing and being
treated like royalty the teams were
introduced to and addressed by
the British Prime Minister on 30
November 2011. After this they
visited the Tower of London where
they enjoyed dinner and attended an
auction in favour of H4H.
3 December 2011 was obviously the
highlight of the visit to Britain. S Sgt
Basson describe the day as follows:
“We had breakfast at 06:30 and
a team meeting at 09:00. We had
‘strapping’ done at 13:00 and then left
the hotel and drove to the stadium
where we were met by lots of people
taking photographs and requesting
autographs.
a warm-up session in the same way
the All Backs did during the World
Cup. The feeling was unbelievable;
you could hear each other from a
distance. After this we went back to
Naval Station Durban sports challenge
Article and photos by WO2
Mathebula Moraile,
PRO Naval Station Durban
Lt Cdr Richard Dulamo, Personnel
challenged all members of Naval
Station Durban during the unit’s
end-year function on 18 November
2011 to a 5km run. The unit members
took him up on his challenge
and participated in a 5 km run,
walk and tug-of-war competition
on 29 February 2012.
The aim of the 5km run, walk
and tug-of-war competition was to
corps, mass participation and to
build morale among the different
departments of Naval Station Durban.
It is commonly known that a healthy
body houses a healthy mind.
the changing rooms. Servicemen led
the teams when we walked out on the
then the British National Anthem was
sung out loud.
“The game commenced and the
Southern Hemisphere XV had to
defend like Trojans. Cpl Inus Ras
scored a try just before half-time. A lot
of players, including myself and Cpl
Ras, were substituted at half-time as
everyone had to have an opportunity
to play. I played again during the last
seven minutes of the game.
“We won the game 36 - 22.
“After the game we received our
medals and the trophy. The day
ended with a social function at
Twickenham.”
Winners
5km Challenge Run for Women 34
years and younger:
Lt (SAN) N. Bob (20 min: 16 sec)
5km Challenge Run for Men 34 years
and younger:
PO N. Mshengu (15 min: 20 sec)
5km Challenge Run for Men 35 to 44
years:
CPO D. Moodley (20 min: 30 sec)
5km Open Walk for Women:
LS L. Hassain (35 min: 25 sec)
Tug-of-war:
The Operational Department
ABOVE: Lt (SAN)
N. Bob won the
5km challenge
run for women in
the 34 years and
younger category.
LEFT: PO N.
Mshengo, AB
D.Pillay and AB S.
Zungu racing to
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 41

S A S O L D I E R
focus on sport
CISM day run and Gauteng
regional summer sports day
By Cpl Ally Rakoma
Photos: Cpl Itumeleng Makhubela
The Directorate Physical
Training, Sport and Recreation,
in conjunction with the Pretoria
Military Sport Club, co-hosted
the International Military Sport
Council (CISM) day run and
Gauteng regional summer sports day
at the Thaba Tshwane Sports Grounds
on 9 March 2012. The CISM motto is
“Friendship Through Sport”.
In welcoming all the athletes, Brig Gen
Gordon Yekelo, the Director Physical
Training, Sport and Recreation,
said that sport had become a world
language with a widespread impact.
He said that many of the developing
states used their military, police
and correctional services to nurture
sporting talent, development,
inspiration, inclusive citizenship, the
human desire for good and to enliven
social relations.
ABOVE: The starting
point of the 8 km run.
The SANDF has become an even
greater force in military world games.
Competition exposure at the highest
level is one of the cardinal pillars of
development and ultimate sporting
excellence.
The SANDF continues to entrench
our country’s positive reputation by
generating more opportunities to train
and compete, helping to create a better
environment for athletes to improve
their performances and allow them
to compete on an equal footing in the
world’s sporting arenas.
One of the CISM’s major goals is to
contribute to world peace. CISM uses
sport to unite members of the armed
forces that may have previously
so that they can meet in a spirit of
The activities of the day were an 8
km walk, an 8 km run, handball,
soccer, volleyball, netball and rugby.
ABOVE: Brig Gen
Gordon Yekelo, Director
Physical Training,
Sport and Recreation,
encouraging athletes to
compete in a positive
spirit.
Since the focus was on mass
participation, athletes that
took part in the day’s events
included members of the
SANDF, the Presidency
(Department of Health and
Wellness), the South African
Police Service (SAPS) and the
Department of Correctional
Services.
Legoete from SAMHS HQ was the
winner of the 8 km run in the men’s
category.
42 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

commemoration
S A S O L D I E R
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 43

S A S O L D I E R
focus on youth
A pilgrimage to manhood
By Pte Tumelo Seiso,
MSDS Corp Com Intern
Ever thought about staying
away from family and
friends for six months Well
that’s the challenge which
members of the Military Skills
Development System (MSDS)
face during the inception of their basic
military training.
On 14 July 2011 I undertook the journey
of reinventing my character when
I had to report to Air Support Base
Potchefstroom to join other recruits
who were destined for Lephalale SA
Military Health Service (SAMHS)
Training Centre. Anxiety was visible
on the faces of the recruits as the bus
headed for Lephalale, but this was
brought about by inexperience of
military training.
After the long journey by bus to
Lephalale, one had to learn to adapt
to a new environment, which was
completely different to home life.
What made the matter worse was
that the group of recruits was not
homogeneous, since it consisted of
individuals from all nine provinces of
the country. Consequently, language
was a barrier to communication
between us.
FIRST BUSH PHASE Fltr: Privates Papa Seape, Msitli Lefosa,
Tumelo Seiso and Simphiwe Mahomba (in front).
our individuality seemed to be
compromised as we slept in groups of
ten in our sleeping quarters. At this
dislikes and become united through
military culture. However, that was
least of my worries as I was going to
sleep in a single bed, which I was not
used to.
as I was struggling to get used to the
weather conditions at Lephalale. It was
to be my new home for the next six
months. Winter was nearly over even
though the temperatures were still very
low. And then came summer, when I
had to endure physical training under
the scorching sun. Temperatures there
could reach 38-40 degrees Celsius.
One of my worst experiences with
the weather was one Saturday when
we had to wear tracksuits during
lunchtime. We were going to and
from the mess and running in groups
of different companies and I was in
Alpha Company. By the time I got to
our sleeping quarters I was already
wet from sweating! We had to wear
tracksuits for uniformity, which is
one of the vital elements of military
culture.
With regard to inculcating military
culture, my experience was not that
bad because I was expecting a worse
military movies that I had seen that
portrayed rough conditions that
recruits had to endure during their
basic military training. One of the
things that I learned in the military
was to pay compliments to rank
44 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

focus on youth
S A S O L D I E R
of the challenges that we were faced
with included walking long hours in
mountainous terrain even at night,
spending days without bathing and
sleeping in the middle of nowhere!
The reason we were exposed to such
conditions was for us to know what to
expect in a war situation, as we are the
protectors of the country.
PREPARING FOR THE PASSING-OUT PARADE Fltr: Privates
Tumelo Seiso, Kagisho Qhelo, Danny August, Sibusiso Hlathi and
Mamburu Shudufadzo.
The highlight that we were eagerly
anticipating was going to the shooting
range, because until now we had not
received a chance to shoot. People
were impatient because shooting
phase, and at that time we were near
the end of out tether because of the
hardships we were faced with. The
day when I stepped onto the shooting
range and received my ammunition to
commence with the shooting exercise
of the memorable experiences that I
will treasure forever. The moment I
of the soldiering experience.
carrying members, which was strictly
enforced. Failure to pay compliments
would earn one a corrective drill that
normally involved running around in
the hot sun of Lephalale.
Independence was one of the ideals
that I had to strive for, as previously I
depended entirely on my parents for
my daily survival. Waking up early
was normally a nightmare when I was
a civilian, but now during “basics”
I had to wake up at 03:00 to prepare
for inspection of our rooms. Things
that I had to do when preparing
for inspection included ironing my
uniform, preparing my cupboard,
cleaning the room and, the worst
for me, ironing my bed. Initially I
did not see the point of it, but as I
settled in I realised how it contributed
to the neatness of a soldier. This
was my daily routine before going
to breakfast. However, I only felt
relieved after the instructors had
come to inspect as that was awful,
and corrective drill was forced on the
recruits by instructors who were not
inspection.
At this point, I think it is vital for me
to unpack a key concept that I have
mentioned frequently in this article,
which is “corrective drill”. If you
mention this phrase to anyone who is
fresh from “basics”, you are guaranteed
a frown or an unpleasant look, as he
or she knows how it feels. Corrective
constitutes physical training that would
usually break down a stubborn soldier,
as it was normally given to those who
conducted themselves in a way that was
not in line with the military culture.
We had all been introduced to military
ways, and discipline had to be enforced.
In some cases innocuous conduct
would earn one some corrective drill
as an instructor would perceive it as a
portrayal of ill-discipline.
Towards the end of “basics” we had
to undergo the last component of the
Believe me when I say this is not for
the faint-hearted! One’s endurance is
put to the test and from my experience
it is a positive attitude that enables
one to survive, because it seems like
phase we were in the Middelburg area.
The Doornkop Training Area, which
is part of the 4 SA Infantry Battalion
(4 SAI Bn) was our host for the three
weeks that we were in the bush. Some
My motivation for joining the military
was purely one of passion and the
desire to be one of the uniformed
members of the SANDF. A highlight
I had always looked forward to that.
The moment I wore the uniform I
was overwhelmed by the sense of
belonging, and I knew that I belonged
to an organisation that I had always
wanted to be part of. Moreover, so
far there was nothing to beat the
feeling of belonging. I also felt that
My desire for being in the military
was a motivational factor because
would keep me going, even to my last
breath!
In conclusion, I see it as an initiation,
because previously I used to depend
entirely on my parents, but I am now
developing a sense of independence
and that seems to qualify me as a
man. Even though still at this basic
rudimentary stage, development of a
character is slowly taking place. Basic
Military Training is not only focussed
on equipping us with military skills,
but it also includes social skills to
enable me to be a responsible citizen
because, after all, soldiers are members
of the community.
A P R I L 2 0 1 2 • 45

S A S O L D I E R
message
Courage
By Col (Past) Hein Kotzé,
SSO Ministry Guidance and
Support, Chaplain General
Division
What is courage A
learner once had to
write an essay on
“courage”. So, after
giving it some thought,
he simply wrote “This
is!” on the exam sheet and handed
it in to the supervisor. Courage is
usually associated with brave acts
soldier risks his own skin by darting
buddy.
These acts certainly take huge
amounts of courage, but life
happens to all of us: a loved one dies
prematurely, or you get the results of
your blood tests, and it is not good
news. You fail to get the promotion
or transfer that you desired and
believed that you deserved. Most of
us experience setbacks and need huge
portions of courage to face different
challenges. Perhaps it is a new boss,
or an unfamiliar work environment.
Others may face severe opposition,
or crippling reverses. Some must
demonstrate courage by taking and
some but harm or affect others
negatively, but that must be taken
for the good of the organisation as a
whole. Others may need the courage
to love and trust again after being
cheated by a partner. Some need
courage to face someone who caused
them harm in some way or another.
situations Some turn to alcohol or
drugs to lessen the impact of the
challenges. Others make impulsive
decisions to resign or to
divorce, others simply
take themselves out of
the game by walking
away. Miroslav Volf said:
“It takes love to make
peace.” I want to say: “It
takes courage to face life’s
problems.” Life is not
always easy, BUT, and
there’s always a “but”,
we can manage it, for the
living God is not AWOL.
He has not deserted us.
He is not somewhere
remote on vacation. He
is with you and He is
with me, right here, right
now. We can and must
take heart, despite our
circumstances for He
has said: “I command
you - be strong and
courageous! Do not be
afraid or discouraged,
for the Lord your God is
with you wherever you go” (Joshua
1:9). “But the Lord still waits for you to
come to Him so He can show you his
love and compassion. For the Lord is
a faithful God. Blessed are those who
wait for Him to help them” (Isaiah
30:18).
In Numbers 13 we read about the
survey and reconnoitre the Promised
Land. Ten came back with a negative
and fearful report: they felt like
grasshoppers before the enemy, but
Joshua (the Lord is salvation) and
Caleb (all heart) showed courage by
speaking in faith about how the living
God could give them victory despite
the giants that they faced.
How about you and me Do we
display courage Often we too face
problems, but allow me to encourage
Col (Past) Hein Kotzé,
SSO Ministry Guidance and Support,
Chaplain General Division.
you this day not to be fainthearted.
Let us be bold, strong,
and courageous soldiers of the
SANDF and of our faith. “For
God has not given us a spirit of
fear and timidity, but of power,
love, self-discipline” (2 Tim 1:7).
Ultimately, I think courage is an
attitude, an approach to life. It is
a particular way of managing life
as a challenge, as an adventure,
instead of viewing it as a threat,
or an obstacle course. How about
you, how do you view life Do
you see it as a game, a battle, a
challenge, a threat, a dance To me,
life is a gift; a divine gift that must
be lived, enjoyed, and embraced
with courage.
* All Scripture quotations from the
NLV (New Living Translation, Tyndale
Publishers)
46 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2

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48 • A P R I L 2 0 1 2