SA Soldier EVENTS SA Soldier SOUTH AFRICAN SOLDIER The official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence www.dod.mil.za

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Mr S. Dlamini (Chairperson) Brig Gen M.P.M. Mgobozi Capt (SAN) J.D.J. Theunissen Col M.J. Mogweng Col M.D. Kgwete 22 34 33 Col P.S. Lengoasa Col M.E. Pheko From the Editor’s Desk Every battle is first won and AMHU KwaZulu-Natal 38 4 20 31 Col (Past) M. Pillay lost in the mind continues to accelerate the Col E.C. Herandien 5 Op NOTLELA deployed fight against Covid-19 1 Military Hospital adds a state-of-the-art ICU facility to its anti-Covid- Cdr T.J. Mabina members build a shelter for an 22 Army Support Base Durban 19 arsenal: The 7th floor at 1 Military Hospital saw an extensive Capt E.M. Machete old lady in Alexandra doing the most to keep units 32 SAMHS develops a reconstruction and refurbishment which resulted in a complete running amid lockdown containerised module of a transformation of the floor. Above is one of the 78 Intensive Care Unit Mr L.R.M. Netshirembe 6 Chief SANDF visits old age Level 2 Field hospital ward kitted up with state-of-the-art equipment after the upgrade. (Acting Editor) home to lift elderly’s spirits 24 SANDF afford another giant (Photo by L Cpl Paul Mpangala) Mr W. van der Westhuizen and hero of our freedom a 33 Frontline workers appreciation (Layout) Chief Human Resource gives special category 1 funeral parade at 2 Mil Hospital in 8 40 The Commandant of the 44 Air Force Base Langebaanweg back to the community Wynberg Military Academy presented plants trees at Noordhoek SANDF bids farewell to a 26 medals and long service Primary School 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment: former Surgeon General Secretary Day -Taking a closer 9 34 certificates Corporate Social Responsibility look into the hard work of 46 Standing strong in God’s grace Defence Foreign Relations secretaries in the SAAF 28 41 Reserve Force Council’s in the face of challenge SA Army receives the much offers send-off to late 10 Proposed Reserve Force anticipated 40mm Velocity Tanzanian Defence Attaché Frontline healthcare 36 Model Grenade Launcher practitioner highlights role of Former Training Command Infection, Prevention and 29 42 Joint Senior Command and Lt Gen Zimpande Msimang General Officer Commanding Control at 2 Mil Hospital 12 Staff Programme hosts retires from the SA Air Force laidto rest virtual Graduation Ceremony Facebook 38 1 Military Hospital adds a SA Soldieris now 14 More than border safeguarding 30 The Military community bids state-of-the-art ICU facility to available on Facebook in KwaZulu-Natal farewell to the Warrant Officer its anti-Covid-19 arsenal https://www.facebook. of the SAMHS com/sandfcorpevents/ 17 SANDF units in KwaZulu-Natal STREET ADDRESS commended for low cases of SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views Covid-19 CONTRIBUTIONS: Defence Headquarters FRONT COVER: Combat ready - and opinions expressed by the authors of articles are their own Although all possible care is taken with cor Nossob & Boeing St SA Army procures an efficacious 18 AMHU KwaZulu-Natal combat articles, the editorial staff cannot accept any Erasmuskloof and do not necessarily represent those of the Department of Grenade Launcher -The South ready against Covid-19 responsibility for lost articles and PRETORIA Defence (DOD). Acceptance and publication of advertorial and African Army receive the Y4 photographs. advertising matter in SA SOLDIERdo not constitute DOD 40mm Medium Velocity Grenade POSTAL ADDRESS Launcher Test Run - Chief South EDITORIAL STAFF SA Soldier endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services therein African Army, Lt Gen Lawrence Interns: Private Bag X158 described. The DOD does not assume any liability in respect of any Mbatha firing Y4 40mm Medium Acting Editor: Mr Lufuno Netshirembe PRETORIA, 0001 claims made in advertisements. Velocity Grenade Launcher during Photo Editor: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole TELEPHONE the Project KAMOGELO Handing and Taking-over ceremony held at Editorial Staff: S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela Text Editor: Mr Deon Smit COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be Tel: (012) 355 6341 the Special Forces School. Page: Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi reproduced without the written consent of the Editor. Distribution:Mr Jim Tshabalala Fax: (012) 355 6399 10(Photos by Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi) Cpl Jonathan Mogano Tel: (012) 355 6341 email: AB Samuel Ramonyai Layout &Mr Werner van der [email protected] For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa, L Cpl Paul Mpangala Design:Westhuizen website: www.dod.mil.za visit our website at: www.dod.mil.za

2 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 3 SA Soldier MESSAGE COMMUNITY OUTREACH SA Soldier OpNOTLELAdeployedmembersbuild from the a shelter for an old lady in Alexandra editor’s desk

By S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela Photos by Cpl Jonathan Mogano

he Coronavirus pandemic has annihilated lives Sanitation. These highly specialised teams employed various he SA National Defence Force (SANDF) has come to aid of an elderly woman whose house was worldwide leaving the whole globe experiencing its skills including engineering, provided water purification burnt in Alexandra over the lockdown period. effects. In South Africa the Commander in Chief of support and distribution to some of the furthest and T T They are currently deployed under Operation Notlela to the SANDF and President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa took some impoverished areas where there was a desperate need for enforce Covid-19 Regulations in Gauteng Province. drastic steps to reduce the possible high loss of life. Some of water for various use with notably a severe need for On 9 July 2020 a transformer exploded at Alexandra the stringent measures put in place was to institute hygienically clean water for drinking and cooking purposes. and burned down the house of Ms Rosina More aged 61 lockdown with rules and regulations in place. and her 24 year old daughter was admitted in hospital In support of the National Department of Health to due to smoke inhalation and is still in hospital. Ms More For the first time in the history of South Africa the largest successfully execute its Covid-19 curbing programme, no less number of South African National Defence Force members than 39 SANDF primary healthcare teams comprising 185 RIGHT: Ms Rosina More and Capt Tshego was mobilised and deployed internally. This marked the members (36 doctors, 84 nurses and 65 auxiliary staff) were Maloka, a hard working member behind the beginning of Operation NOTLELA. deployed to all nine provinces. Scanning teams consisting of donation project. 165 medical staff members deployed with SANDF units in all With lockdown at alert level 5 instituted, Op NOTLELA was nine provinces. These medical staff members are performing activated. After several months of gradual easing of alert thermal scans on the population during patrols, vehicle levels and lockdown rules and regulations, alert level 1 was check point and roadblocks. More than 800 000 people were declared to be in place from 00h01 on 21 September 2020. scanned. The SANDF has screened nearly 600 000 people. The The declaration of alert level 1 marked the minimum role SANDF performed scanning and screening on its own that SANDF would be playing going forth and the actual members. coming to an end of Op NOTLELA and the withdrawal of the SANDF members. The SANDF assisted and provided with the establishment of additional bed quarantine facilities. The SANDF further Since the National state of Disaster was declared and assisted with administrative duties such as data capturing of lockdown began, SANDF members have been engaged in a medical records, general running of the hospital which variety of tasks in support of various state departments e.g., included the provision of scanning orderlies, drivers, Department of Health, Water and Sanitation, Social porters, HR administration, finance administration, Q- Ms Rosina More in tears of joy with her A house that has been donated to Ms Rosina More. Development and the South African Police Services (SAPS) in marshals, cleaning and sanitising services, and safety and family. had. With the assistance of an for some time and felt touched by maintaining law and order, as well as compliance with the security services at overburdened hospitals is looking after her two grandkids while their organisation in Alexandra called the situation there. They also state of disaster regulations. The SANDF tasks included mother is still in hospital. 30 Strong that is concerned with extended their social intervention securing South Africa’s porous borders. In addition to the above roles and responsibilities that the One of the donors, Mr Munir donated making Alexandra a better place; programmes to donate clothing to SANDF carried out, it offered immeasurable humanitarian building material to the old lady. The 30 strong we were then able and managed to school children as well. SANDF members assisted SAPSenforce compliance of assistance to many South African citizens. In Gauteng and voices of Alex together with the SANDF get donors in order to assist this Ms More said when the regulations by inter alia carrying out countless patrols, Kwa-Zulu Natal Provinces houses were voluntarily built by members that are deployed in Alexandra and family.” transformer started burning, she arrested several thousands of people and confiscated SANDF and handed over to poor and ill-affording families. other community members of Alexandra took it Due to the fire that broke out was actually still inside the house. hundreds of firearms, as well as millions of Rands worth of Out of a sense of Ubuntu without any obligation, SANDF upon themselves to rebuild the house of Ms and the house in ruins, Ms More The community came to her drugs, counterfeit goods and stolen vehicles, just to mention offered transportation to South African senior citizens Rosina More. The project started on the 11th of was accommodated elsewhere to assistance and pulled her and her a few among other successes. during their social grant pay days. July 2020. allow the members space and time two grandchildren out of the Capt Tshepo Mokoka from 21 SAI Battalion to start the project which lasted burning shack. As part of Op NOTLELA, SANDF members provided water Without seeking reward or praise, the involvement of the as Charlie Company Commander said they have over a month and half. Capt She believes it was God’s been involved in the area of Alexandra since the purification services. Water purification is a unique process SANDF in the national fight against the Coronavirus Mokoka said the SANDF provided mercy upon her that organisations beginning of the lockdown. Through their of the removal, deactivation or killing of pathogenic pandemic contributed to the wellbeing of many South manpower to assist the builder came to her rescue and provided deployment, there were couple of areas that had and made some contributions her with proper shelter. “We are microorganisms. Approximately 24 million litres of water African citizens and helped curb what otherwise would have been identified that needed intervention. He from the members to supplement very grateful for what the SANDF was purified and 23 million litres were delivered. been an uncontrollable spread of the virus. said: “It came to our attention that Mama on material and groceries. and the other organisations have Rosina More’s house burned down due to He said that SANDF members done for us by building this 180 engineers from the SANDF were deployed to all nine Lufuno Netshirembe tripping of the electricity transformers. have been eager to assist as they structure and toilets for us,” she provinces in support of the Department of Water and Acting Editor SA Soldier In the process she lost everything that she have been deployed in Alexandra said.

4 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 5 SA Soldier COMMUNITYOUTREACH COMMUNITY OUTREACH SA Soldier

Gen Solly Shoke ChiefSANDFvisitsoldagehome addressing the elderly at Vosloorus Old Age to lift elderly’s spirits Home.

SANDF to this occasion as led by the Chief of the SANDF of the SANDF, Gen By S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela Shoke. I wish this day to Photos by L Cpl Jonathan Mogano be led and directed by the Lord as we appreciate the ith the many challenges gesture of goodwill experienced by the brought about by the Welderly, Covid-19 could SANDF. They have once not have made it any worse. again supported Around the world, the coronavirus endeavours to uplift the seems to have had its way as many senior citizens succumbed to the disease.

One serious concern during the lockdown stages has been the coping mechanism in old age homes as the elderly were left lonelier than before due to the Gen Solly Shoke handing over goodies to an elderly lady.

The Chief of the SANDF, Gen Solly Shoke donated groceries and blankets during the ceremony.

society to rethink new ways of doing things.” place has been managed. We were lives of our senior citizens in this Gen Shoke said. also delighted when the president Voloorus Old Age Home.” announced that the country will Gen Shoke said he humbles himself before them be moving down to level 1, that it Cpln Sebataole Loate from the office as elders in society who should be respected. He will give us an opportunity to visit of the Chaplain General, said that told the senior citizens that the SANDF, amid and bring these goodies for you.” Gen Shoke saw it fitting that he the coronavirus pandemic, was mandated to should pay the Voloorus Old Age ensure that lockdown regulations are adhered The Secretary General of the Home a visit. “We all have seen how to. He said elderly people were having a hard Vosloorus Old Age Home Board, the disease has claimed many lives. time and usually at the hands of their Mr Johannes Masuku said the However, the Lord’s mercy has been grandchildren. Gen Shoke guaranteed them that gesture from the SANDF will go a upon us. It was by the grace of God Ululations erupt as the SANDF entourage enters the Vosloorus Old Age Home. when they see the SANDF uniform, they should long way for them and it was that we are still here. God rest assured that they were safe. Gen Shoke told much appreciated. He said with manifested his grace in the heart of restrictions. Although it was a balancing act to Vosloorus Old Age Home. The still showing signs of good health them that the soldiers serve them as the citizens the country and the world facing a the Chief of the SANDF, that there mitigate the spread of infections, it came as a home has been fortunate in that even though we now live in the of this country. global pandemic, they were were people who may need some relief that the president finally announced the thus far, not a single person had middle of a pandemic whose future touched that the SANDF has also social intervention.” He said. easing of lockdown restrictions to Alert level 1. tested positive in the facility. remains uncertain. It affects He said: “It please us that this centre has kept thought about the elderly as the This move allowed the Chief of the SA National everyone without discrimination. It you safe from Covid-19 because we were most vulnerable people in society. The Chief of the SANDF donated Defence Force (SANDF), Gen Solly Shoke to “It pleases me today when I see has disrupted aspects of our lives informed that everyone in this old age home blankets and other consumables to reach out to senior citizens when he visited that many of you are jubilant and including the economy and forced tested negative, and we are happy with how the Mr Masuku said: “We welcome the the home.

6 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 7 SA Soldier COMMUNITYOUTREACH COMMUNITY OUTREACH SA Soldier ChiefHumanResourcegivesback 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment: corporate social to the community responsibility

In order to ensure the Galeshewe Though the members of the Gun Run team received the pledge different units within the ADA before the next competition date, Formation were also financially Article by Lt Lutendo Mudau the donation of “tekkies” to the affected by Covid-19 outbreak, Photos by Sgt Carmen Van Der Westhuizen team was declared as a project in they were able to scrape some By Mr Tsholanang Zwane which the Air Defence Artillery funds and with their humble Photos by Cpl Jonathan Mogano outh African Army Air Defence Artillery Formation as a whole needed to donations they made a sizeable Formation (SAADA) successfully held their contribute. On Fridays members of and commendable impact to the he Chief Human Resources (CHR), V Adm annual Week of Excellence, the week of 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment initiative. An amount of R15 000 Asiel Kubu on 07 October 2020 visited S celebration was instituted to promote Espirit de contributed towards the procuring was amassed to buy each member and adopted Rantsou Primary School at T Corps amongst members in the Air Defence of the pledged sports sneakers. In of the Galeshewe Gun Run Team a Mothutlung Village, Brits where in partnership Artillery Corps. The Gun Run competition formed effort to encourage the members of suitable pair of on-road running with Global Command and Control part of the activities that were held during the the unit, they were allowed to wear sneakes. Technologies, a company which provides week which gave an opportunity of interaction civilian clothes once a week on technological equipment, to the Department of with private companies, government Fridays. In less than 11 months after the Defence donated PPE. departments and the Kimberley Local Galeshewe Gun Run team won the ChiefofHumanResourceS, Community. The ADA Formation and ADA School 2019/20 Gun Run competition, on V Adm Asiel Kubu speaking interns also had some sort of 21 October 2020, 10 Anti- Aircraft during the ceremony. The Galeshewe Gun Run team were the winners fundraising in their different units. Regiment Officer Captain Liezel of 2019/20 Gun Run competition. During during Unfortunately the outbreak of Joodt on behalf of the Acting background. He informed them that Covid-19 pandemic put a damper on Officer Commanding Maj their future did not depend on where the competition it became apparent that some the planned fundraising strategies. Christiaan Oosthuizen officially they were born or where they were members of the team needed proper sports As such the Formation as a whole handed over 16 pairs of running from. "I want to see some of you kids sneakers (tekkies) shoes. The former General sitting here today wearing the SA Officer Commanding (GOC) Air Defence Artillery had to implement strategies in “out shoes to the Galeshewe Gun Run National Defence Force uniform with Formation, Maj Gen Sandile Hlongwa pledged to of the box” ways to raise these Team leader Mr Moses three stars", he told the children. He contribute running shoes to the winning team. funds. Motlhapeng as part of our social further told them that they must and corporate continue to respect their parents and responsibility aimed at listen to their teachers as this will promoting fitness, build their character and make them uplifting morale, to be respected members of their appreciation of the community. members’ efforts as well Chief of Human Resource, V Adm Asiel as encouraging the youth Kubu handing over goodies. to make a meaningful difference and to prevent This was as the Admiral launched the CHR them from being exposed Corporate Social Responsibility programme where to elements such as drugs, annually he will give back to the School. Rantsou criminal activities etc. is a public Primary institution which specialises in Most importantly, the comprehensive education. This institution is handing over of these where Admiral Kubu started his elementary sports shoes was a fruition education and grew up in Mothotlung community. of the pledge made to the In His Speech, CHR encouraged the children Galeshewe Gun Run Team. not to undermine themselves due to their “Don’t give to get. Give to Galeshewe Gun Run team members including the team leader Mr Moses RIGHT: The learners of the adopted inspire others to give” – Rantsou Primary School at Mothutlung Motlhapeng with 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment Acting Officer In Charge Captain Liezel Village. Joodt (left) and Communication Officer Lieutenant Lutendo Nadia Mudau (right). Simon Sinek.

8 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 9 SA Soldier EVENTS EVENTS SA Soldier SA Army receives the much anticipated 40mm Velocity Grenade Launcher

stipulated time frame and budget.

During his address the Chief of the South African Army, Lt Gen Article and photos by Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi Lawrence Mbatha, thanked all stakeholders who made Project KAMOGELO a success by not only he SA Army received the much-anticipated producing such an impressive Y4 40mm Medium Velocity Grenade weapon but also keeping to the Launcher (40mm-MVGL) during the Project T time frame and the budget. KAMOGELO Handing and Taking-over ceremony held on 7 October 2020 at the Special Forces School Members of the Special in Murrayhil, North of Pretoria. Forces conducting a live demonstration of the Y4 The ceremony, which was organised by the SA 40mm MVGL. Army Infantry Formation and attended by officials The 40mm-MVGL is a modern, from the Department of Defence, Armscor, Milkor effective, accurate, ergonomically Chief SA Army Lt Gen designed, proven and integrated Lawrance Mbatha addressing Infantry weapon system capable the attendees during the of increasing the firepower and handing and taking over Ceremony. flexibility of the Infantry Section. The system will enable the Infantry Section to effectively of this Medium Velocity Grenade conduct the foreseen mix of Launcher will increase firepower missions and tasks within the over long ranges (currently from African Battle Space. 375m to 800m) and improve suppressive fire ability. The weapon Unlike its predecessor the 40mm system was acquired through the Y2 MGL that can only fire limited Project KAMOGELO Project Officer Lt Col Gladwim Louw receives a token Expedited Armaments Acquisition low velocity ammunition with an of appreciation from Milkor Chief Executive Officer Mr Phuti Mampa. Process (EAAP). A pilot project that effective range of 375m, the seeks to address the need to rapidly 40mm-MVGL can among other things fire six conducted at Infantry School in acquire armaments where urgent different types of ammunition from low velocity Oudtshoorn the weapon system “Allow me to thank all requirements emerge. The success to medium velocity ammunition with an passed and exceeded all the stakeholders. To witness and attest of the EAAP means the new policy effective range of up to 800m, enabling the user expectations “The weapon was set to one factor, the brilliance of will be adopted by the Department to engage a wide range of targets than possible to fire 250 rounds without any collective wisdom applied to General Officer Commanding SA Army Infantry Formation, Maj Gen Njabulo Dube firing the Y4 40mm MVGL. of Defence for future projects. with a standard 40mm MGL. stoppage but instead it fired 877 ensure that the cause of action not rounds continuously without any only met in the manner that is has and Rheinmetall Denel Munition among others, application ranges. This capability The weapon system was not a new The weapon system is semi-automatic designed stoppage”. been met today, but it has been included a live demonstration as well as a gap was experienced especially requirement, but a replacement of with simplicity to offer uncompromising met within the time frame. I think weapons exhibition. when soldiers deployed for Peace the existing 40mm Y2 Multi reliability and efficiency. With a six round Through the EAAP, Project that is highly commendable”, said Support Operations in urban and Grenade Launcher, which has been capacity, weighing 7kg without ammunition, KAMOGELO successfully procured Gen Mbatha. According to Lt Col Gladwin Louw, the Project jungle environments in Africa. in service for many years and its rounds can be fired in rapid succession of 6 370 Y4 40mm-MVGL complete Officer for Project KMOGELO; in the past two upgrades does not meet the rounds in less than 3 seconds. with accessories and also went According to Lt Col Louw, the Y4 decades the SA Army experienced a capability The 40mm-MVGL was an urgent requirement of the current further to produce the weapon 40mm-MVGL will be phased in gap in multi-purpose/range ammunition type operational requirement within operational environment within the Lt Col Gladwin Louw said during the extensive system employment doctrine and gradually at the Infantry School applications against various targets and the Infantry Section. Acquisition African Battle Space. Final Operational Test and Evaluation training manuals all within the through the conversion training.

10 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 11 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUSONPEOPLE SA Soldier

fellow SAAF Pilots and the aircraft and that fell LtGenZimpandeMsimangretires under his domain, on day of his retirement parade, he piloted an Allouette III helicopter and from the SA Air Force landed at AFB Swartkop. The SAAF pulled out all the stops with many of its flying arsenal coming out to salute the outgoing chief. From transport to fighter jets. The Oryx, Agusta A109, Lynx, Puma, Rooivalk, Allouette III, PC-7, Hawk and Gripen aircraft concluded the flying display.

Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Defence Industry, family, and By Sgt Lebogang Ramaboea friends gathered at Air Force Base Swartkop to Photos by Sgt Lindo Hlomuka bid farewell to Lt Gen Msimang at a Commanders Farewell function. The emotional he first African Chief of the SA Air Force outgoing CAF thanked and saluted all members (CAF), Lt Gen Zimpande Msimang retired of the organization he worked with in his Tfrom the organisation on 30 September military career. He had some inspirational words 2020 after taking command of South African Air to members of the SAAF: "Be an Air Force that Force (SAAF) on 28 September 2012 from his In attendance was also the Deputy Chief of predecessor Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano. Lt Gen the SA Air Force, Maj Gen Mzayifani Msimang was at the helm of the SAAF for eight Buthelezi, and V Adm Samuel Hlongwane (Chief SA Navy) next to him. Lt Gen Msimang saluting members of the SANDF for the factory conversion onto the A109E helicopter at last time as Chief of SA Air Agusta/Westland in Italy. In the SAAF, Lt Gen Force. Msimang held numerous positions, including that of Officer Commanding of Air Force Base (AFB) years. His retirement coincided Bloemspruit and Director Helicopter Systems. with the centenary of the SAAF which is the second oldest air force In a gesture that seemed like bidding farewell to in the world.

Lt Gen Msimang integrated as a qualified pilot from the African National Congress Military Wing, Umkhonto weSizwe in 1994. During his career he has flown the Mi8, Mi25, Allouette III and Oryx helicopter. He also completed a Lt Gen Zimpande Msimang about to take off in the Lowering of the National flag in honour of Lt Gen Msimang. Allouette III. Inspires Confidence, as members of the Air Force, we need to be confident in ourselves. Since I started here, I have always believed that each of you is more than capable and competent in your field. I believed and still do that you have the capacity to make this organisation into something bigger than it was.”

On retirement he plans to spend more time with his family, especially his children. Lt Gen Msimang said he would not be lost to the aviation community as he plans to join the Reserve Force and fly at the SAAF Museum.

RIGHT: Lt Gen Msimang Lt Gen Msimang exiting after landing in the Deputy Chief of the Air Force (Dep CAF), Maj Gen Mzayifani Buthelezi, is saluting the SAAF colours. Allouette III. now the Acting Chief of the Air Force.

12 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 13 SA Soldier BORDERSAFEGUARDING BORDER SAFEGUARDING SA Soldier

LEFT: GOC IPC KZN Brig Gen Siphiwo More than border safeguarding Dlomo, 4 Artillery Battalion Commander, Lt Col Mimmy Matimbe in KwaZulu-Natal and Cpln Boyki Moaisi. community of Ndumo too. Two blind siblings, Article and photos by Capt Anelisiwe Tamela, SO3 Operational Bongani and Sipho Kumalo were among Communication, J TAC HQ KwaZulu-Natal residents who were assisted by soldiers. Bongani lost his sight some years ago, while he SA National Defence Force (SANDF) is an active participant his brother Sipho, gradually lost his eyesight in efforts to ensure regional and continental peace and too. The two brothers had no immediate Tstability. The SANDF also continues to fulfil its constitutional family or means to fend for themselves. mandate by defending and protecting the territorial integrity of the Bongani receives a government disability Republic of South Africa through the execution of border safeguarding operations under the code name Operation CORONA.

Moaisi were informed of the intention to build a house for the desperate family. After the leader group went to assess the situation, they supported this compassionate initiative. The completed house Soldiers from Bravo Company Projects working was it was handed over to the on the house of the Kumalo Brothers. family. Present at the handing over of the house was the Pongola Deputy Mayor, Ms Busi Mvelase and the General Officer Commanding Interim Provincial The leader group of 4 Artillery Regiment.

The old house of the Mtshali family.

For six months under Op CORONA, SANDF through Joint Operations Tactical Headquarters KwaZulu-Natal deploys three Companies along the borders of; Swaziland, Mozambique and Lesotho, respectively to prevent cross border crime. These deployed Companies are based in close proximity with rural parts of KwaZulu- Natal. Inevitably the deployed forces are confronted with cross border criminal activities including, the illegal smuggling of firearms, The General Officer Commanding of the Interim Provincial attempts by undocumented persons to illegally Command KwaZulu-Natal, Brig Gen Siphiwo Dlomo, delivering a cross the borders, vehicle theft by syndicates speech at the handing over of the new Mtshali family home. and the smuggling of contraband (which includes but not limited to Cannabis, Cigarettes deployed in KwaZulu-Natal family. The identified family and counterfeit goods). commits to a course of uplifting consists of six children (the oldest ABOVE: Assisting with the furbishing and cleaning of the Kumalo Brothers’ House (Bravo Company Projects) Op CORONA ensures that cross border the community. These acts of being 17 years old) living with their criminality that threatens South Africa’s socio- kindness by the soldiers forge a unemployed mother. After Command KwaZulu-Natal, Brig Gen Siphiwo to ensure that the project was grant but Sipho is not a beneficiary economic progress does not go unabated. The strong bond between the local observing the dire circumstances Dlomo. completed. of this grant as he does not have deployed Companies make sure that they do not population and the deployed that the family was living under, During her address, Lt Col Matimbe quoted The act of benevolence by an identity document. adversely affect their area of responsibility by forces. the soldiers decided to contribute the late former South African president, Mr deployed SANDF members did not The community of Ndumo had taking into consideration the social, political, An example of the soldiers’ financially towards building a house Nelson Mandela: “There can be no greater gift end in Pongola. On the side of the started to build a house for the cultural, religious, economic, environmental engagement with the community for them. than that of giving one’s time and energy to Mozambique border, 4 Artillery Kumalos however, the project and humanitarian factors of the areas that they was highlighted when deployed As per military protocol, the help others without expecting anything in Regiment members of Bravo couldn’t be completed. To ease are deployed in. soldiers in Pongola while on patrol Battalion Commander, Lt Col return“. She thanked members of the SANDF for Company deployed in Ndumo, their difficulty, neighbours do During their tour of duty, each Company took an interest in Ms Mtshali’s Mimmy Matimbe and Cpln Boyki working tirelessly and utilizing their expertise decided to give back to the their best to assist the brothers

14 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 15 SA Soldier EVENTS HEALTH MATTERS SA Soldier SANDF units in KwaZulu-Natal commended for low cases of Covid-19

By AB Samuel Ramonyai The new home of the Khumalo brothers, built by Photo by L Cpl Paul Mpangala The old house of the Khumalo brothers. SANDF members. he Department of Health in Kwa-Zulu Natal (DoH KZN) commended the SA clothing. Stolen vehicles worth R3, TNational Defence Force (SANDF) units in 5 million were seized before they KZN province for having less and manageable could be smuggled into numbers of Covid-19 cases. The commendation Mozambique. Among the was given subsequent to the Area Military thousands of people stopped by Health Unit team furnishing the DoH KZN with a soldiers during their patrols, 47 quality awareness campaign, said Lt Col undocumented persons were found Mlungisi Magubane, Officer in Charge (OiC) of and handed over to the South the Regional Health and Safety Centre, Durban. Lt Col Mlungisi Magubane, Officer in Charge - Regional Health African Police Service and the and Safety Centre, Durban. Department of Home Affairs. As early as February, the multidisciplinary team health practitioners most of AMHU KZN Regional In the western side of KwaZulu- under the leadership of Lt Col Magubane was which were Occupational Occupational Health and Safety Natal, the Natal Carbineers under established to conduct Covid-19 Awareness Health and Safety (OHS) department also introduced a the command of Maj Msizi Campaigns in all units around the province to qualified. All unit Officers 50/50 rotation schedule to slow Msimango recovered dagga worth educate all members about preventative Commanding in the province the spread of the virus in the R36,7 million, vehicles worth measures. were advised to make sanitizers work place. “When Coronavirus The Khumalo brothers posing with members of Bravo Company in front of R310 000. Other notable seizures available at all entrances of reached our shores, our soldiers their new home with donations made by SANDF members . were that of weapons and livestock. Seeing that the Coronavirus was ravaging China their units, this was put in place knew what to do as we had with food and basic items at least once a day. in February, Lt Col Magubane said they did not way before the whole country prepared and given them proper With the help of community structures, the hesitate to conduct proper education and was brought to the awareness of education about the Covid-19. Gunners committed to assist the family. training on the prevention of transmission and sanitizing, said Lt Col The Department of Health KZN The soldiers took over the Kumalo brothers’ spread of Covi-19. He added that what Magubane. now commends us for the great failed housing project and purchased building motivated them even more to start the job we have done for our soldiers. materials and completed the house. On the day campaigns was when china built a hospital in 11 The scope of education covered Around KZN we do not have a of handing over the house, the soldiers also days. “This happened way before the how to use sanitizers, how to large number of infected donated furniture, clothing and food hampers Commander-in-Chief of the SANDF, President sanitize electronics and soldiers,” he confirmed. for the siblings. With the calamitous socio- Cyril Ramaphosa declared the state of disaster advising members to shower economic conditions in the area, the members in South Africa as an instrument to curb the before making conduct with Lt Col Magubane appreciated the of Bravo Company also displayed their spread of Coronavirus”, he said. family members; keeping social Officer Commanding AMHU KZN, humanitarian side by donating food parcels and distancing, wearing a mask at Col Trevor Pillay for allowing clothing in partnership with some community The OiC indicated that it is their responsibility all times as well as drying them to proactively conduct members in Ndumo as an initiative to assist as Health and Safety Officers to ensure the laundry by using the sun and these campaigns early. safety of SANDF members. He believes that if iron to kill the virus. More than impoverished residents. The General Officer Commanding of the Interim Provincial Besides the acts of ‘ubuntu’ displayed by Command KwaZulu-Natal, Brig Gen Siphiwo Dlomo, speaking to they educate soldiers, they will pass it on to 1000 soldiers received this Today AMHU KZN Regional members, the SANDF prides itself with the members of the Mtshali family in their new home. their dependants and ultimately the whole education in Covid-19 Occupational Health prides itself performance and the successes achieved by province would slowly but surely be educated. awareness around the province, for slowing the spread of the members of 4 Artillery Regiment as part of Op R1, 9 million as well as contraband All of these successes shows the by then there was not even a virus amongst soldiers through CORONA. With the allocated resources, 4 valued at R10, 9 million which was dedication of the SANDF in The multidisciplinary team comprises; nurses, single reported case in our campaigns and dissemination of Artillery Regiment confiscated dagga valued at mostly cigarettes, alcohol and combating cross border crime. doctors, medical officers and environmental country, he continued. relevant and quality information.

16 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 17 SA Soldier INSIGHT INSIGHT SA Soldier

identified, it needed shower facilities. Lt AMHU KwaZulu-Natal combat ready Col Danny Pillay who spear-headed the establishment of the facility, negotiated against Covid-19 with the government service provider who committed to building the facility. The CHA centre is ready with beds and cardboard partitions to demarcate the area. There are also five newly installed showers for males, female and people with disabilities as well as fresh-drinking water facilities. The centre can accommodate at By AB Samuel Ramoyai least 40 patients at a time, he said. This Photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala initiative was taken after realising the slow process of establishing quarantine centres, he Officer Commanding AMHU KZN, Col Col Pillay mentioned. “I didn’t want to Trevor Pillay, Speaking in an interview have my members struggling with :Twith SA Soldier recently, to explain the quarantine centres should they be infected. sterling job that Area Military Health Unit We wanted them to have a place where KwaZulu-Natal (AMHU KZN) have been doing in Lt Col Virginia Verdhan, a member of the province to fight Covid-19; indicated that the coordinating committee of while international countries were grappling Response to Covid-19. with the new pandemic, Covid-19 (coronavirus Early in February, the unit had already disease 2019, which according to scientific started with sewing masks for every member of AMHU KZN and their Officer Commanding Area Military Health Unit Durban, dependents. Covid-19 education was also Col Trevor Pillay. facilitated to each unit in the province by SAMHS Nursing College members namely; Covid-19 reported cases with 3200 Maj Elsie Mashigo, Capt Dabea Shabangu deaths, The Col mentioned. and Lt Tebatso Seoketsa. Clinical teams were set up, On 11 March 2020 when South Africa planning started as early as was declared to have 6 cases, Col Pillay and February 2020 for the procurement his crew were already ahead with of Personal Protective Equipment preparations. Currently Col Pillay and his (PPE). Demands were sent to the SA team have just completed a project of Military Service (SAMHS) putting together a quarantine Concurrent Procurement Unit, that’s how Health Assessment (CHA) centre at the serious AHMU KZN proactively took Bluff Military Base. When the site was A Quarantine Centre established for SANDF members and their Covid-19 said Col Pillay. Lt Col dependents. ABOVE and LEFT: Members of Virginia Verdhan who shared Col the Area Military Health Unit research was caused by the virus SARS-CoV2); continuously. “We knew that the pillay’s sentiments, said AMHU KZN sewing masks at the onset of the AMHU KZN began putting measures in place virus was going to hit us very has been working very hard and has the Covid-19 threat. in anticipation of the virus, before it could hard”, he said. since been part of the provincial reach our shores. AMHU KZN could therefore be Col Pillay added that the disaster management team. they can self-quarantine if they come said to be a trailblaser as it had prepared itself meetings were designed to track She added that AMHU KZN also into contact with the virus”. against Coronavirus well in advance. the global cases of Coronavirus rendered medical support in Col Pillay mentioned that As early as February 2020 AMHU KZN and to have a full understanding partnership with Port Health at the everybody in the unit has been started mobilizing it’s forces and resources in of the nature of the newly King Shaka Airport as well as actively participating to ensure all preparation for the outbreak of Coronavirus. discovered pandemic. The screening and scanning of all airline the projects succeed. Indicating that The unit started setting up coordinating knowledge gained enabled the passengers. “Medical support was Col kubess Mordley from his unit committee meetings that comprised the coordinating committee to rendered at the KZN border posts. sewed the fitted sheets for the CHA management team and clinical Healthcare mobilise medical support so that Comprehensive medical support Centre beds as they are functioning Practitioners. The first meeting took place on 07 the unit would be able to offer including psycho-social support to on a tight budget. The quarantine February 2020, way before many South Africans medical support to all all deployed troops within our area centre is ready and will soon be in took the virus seriously, said Col Pillay. Every stakeholders. At that stage, of responsibility as part of Op use after the proper handing over of morning since that day the committee meets internationally there was 93000 NOTLELA was rendered,” she said. the site to the OC AMHU, Col Pillay.

18 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 19 SA Soldier INSIGHT INSIGHT SA Soldier Everybattleisfirstwonandlost the virus and how it is contracted, Maj deployed needs to be fit mentally. is a need for mental health experts Khumalo mentioned that Tele-counselling It is our job as psychologists to to deal with the fallout from the in the mind was provided. “This was the most distressing play our part in ensuring that we Covid-19 pandemic, she said. and critical stage where an individual would send out mentally fit soldiers. “Mental wellness has been taken need a physical support system that couldn’t Because Coronavirus is new, seriously to mitigate the dire be provided. The loss of loved ones while in everybody is frightened including consequences of Coronavirus. isolation then buried without the opportunity deployed soldiers. We ensured Psychology practitioners at AMHU of paying last respects was the saddest ongoing psychological support KZN continuously provided care experience leading to prolonged and complex and visits were maintained and through a Caregiver Program to grief. Members in isolation were encouraged debriefing sessions were provided. the frontline health care to video call and communicate with their Follow-up visits were increased practitioners (community testers) By AB Samuel Ramonyai families regularly, to eliminate boredom, and deployed members would be to boost their morale and prevent L Cpl Paul Mpangala loneliness and worries.” encouraged to abide with COVID- fatigue associated with their job”, 19 regulations.” she highlighted. n consideration of the She added that psychological department “Lockdown regulations aimed devastating effects of practitioners continued with psychological What do you do in instances where at flattening the curve in South ICoronavirus, launching a battle support to members in isolation until the you are faced with a “situation” Africa, took a psychological and against this invisible enemy is as member was discharged and followed-up far above your expertise of solving psychiatric toll on most. Some daunting as engaging in a thereafter to ensure psychological wellbeing that specific problem? smokers resorted to concocting biological war. In biological and adjustment. Covid-19 is not only a medical substances which unfortunately warfare, soldiers are acutely priority but mental health priority led to the emergence of aware of the existence of the Is there a need to provide soldiers with too. The impact of lockdown psychiatric conditions induced by enemy and the need to fight back counselling when they are going on a mission? regulations on the mental the use of substance not but they do not see this enemy. “Yes there is a huge need, any soldier wellness has been immense, there scientifically tested, proven and Since Coronavirus was reported Maj Khumbuzile Khumalo, SO1 Psychology AMHU KZN. approved for human consumption. on our shores, the SA National Psychiatric cases were outsourced Defence Force (SANDF) has experienced the magnitude of the assignment that details of all psychology to ensure psychiatry evaluation feeling of fighting a biological war where the soldiers had, demanded department practitioners to be and pharmacotherapy. All viral infection of your comrades renders them psychological support before and contacted during this phase were problems that were above our your enemy. Coronavirus has brought “fighting during deployment. “We tried by distributed during the training expertise have been referred and for survival” into a sharp reality check. all means to give them session to all deployed soldiers in managed appropriately.” psychological support that was KwaZulu Natal. While the enemy is invisible, fellow brothers/ directly proportional to the The Covid-19 pandemic and the sisters in arms must physically and assignment they had to perform”, Maj Khumalo indicated that introduction of lockdown psychologically do all they can to protect asserted SO1 Psychology AMHU psychological counselling was regulations have had an immense themselves knowing that protecting oneself KZN. provided to those who got infected psychological impact. from this enemy is protecting your comrades. with Coronavirus. She said: Reconstruction and adjustment Psychology Training Program was “Psychology department (New Normal) is crucial. Multi Deploying the SANDF to fight the invisible rendered to all deployed soldiers practitioners have been providing professional intervention and enemy; Coronavirus would have indeed been in KZN. This program was psychological support to all mental health awareness is of catastrophic if soldiers were not prepared in intended to develop insight on the members on quarantine (Under paramount importance. every respect to fight this enemy. The Area physiological reaction that occurs Investigation) and in isolation Military Health Unit (AMHU) KwaZulu-Natal when there is perceived harm, (confirmed COVID-19 positive) The “new normal” compels us to (KZN) has had to psychologically prep soldiers event or attack (Coronavirus), Maj telephonically. Various be conscious of our behaviour and to go out to face the invisible enemy. “Every Khumalo said. psychological problems and to make deliberate efforts to battle is first won and lost in the mind”, said important consequences in terms of protect ourselves. We must be Maj Khumbuzile Khumalo, SO1 Psychology Even if Coronavirus at this stage mental health including anxiety, mindful of following simple but AMHU KZN. was regarded as a medical frustration, worries, stress and proper hygiene protocols such as priority, deploying forces had to depression emerged progressively”. the washing of hands with soap or When Covid-19 was declared a pandemic, South be resilient on a psychological sanitizer. Cover your mouth and Africa instituted lockdown regulations as one of aspect such as anxiety, etc. and on Members in isolation who nose with a tissue when you cough the measures to curb the spread of the virus. how to spring back to normal life presented with comorbidities were or sneeze. Throw used tissues in Soldiers formed part of the Safety and security (dealing with fears). Pamphlets prone and vulnerable to mental the trash. If you don't have a team to enforce adherence to lockdown with relevant psychological illness hence psychological support Maj Khumalo's team rendered advice to units deployed around tissue, cough or sneeze into your regulations. Maj Kuhumalo reported that the information as well as contact was provided. Due to the nature of KwaZulu-Natal elbow, not your hands.

20 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 21 SA Soldier SUPPORTTOTHEPEOPLE SUPPORT TO THE PEOPLE SA Soldier Army Support Base Durban doing the most to keep units running amid lockdown

By AB Samuel Ramonyai Photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala

ince the President of South Africa and Commander in Chief of the SA National WO Raveen Motilal off-loading ration-packs for distribution Sgt Wiseman Hlatshwayo arranging ration-packs. to different operation points. SDefence Force (SANDF), Mr Cyril Ramaphosa declared a National State of that the stability of a tree was only as strong as Disaster, the Army Support Base (ASB) Durban its invisible roots in the ground. Indicating that continues to step up efforts in performing its not he but the unit members were the invisible core duties by supporting all Military Units and roots giving him the support, stability and operations in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) region sustainment he needed. under the leadership of the Acting Officer Besides keeping the operation running, Lt Col Commanding (OC) ASB, Lt Col Deon le Roux. Le Roux and his unit had to continue doing their One would certainly avow that it would daily duties of providing procurement to all KZN have been impossible for KZN military units to units, manage all the transport for the SA Army, battle Covid-19 were it not for the support do technical repairs, general stores and supply fuel as well as managing other units. “We have Acting Officer Commanding Army Support Base Durban, been very busy throughout the whole year. At Lt Col Deon le Roux. some point we were working till late and on weekends when the need arose. My members did not have a 50/50 work schedule during the deployed forces on the ground to lockdown. We wanted to ensure the smooth different areas of operation in KZN. running of all the operations within the province. We however managed to pull through I am eternally thankful to my members for their against all odds due to the team spirit endless support and working very well with me we have in my unit. We were also the during this difficult time. It was challenging for naval entry point for PPEs for all KZN every member in the unit. However, we all fought Lt Col Le Roux enjoys both questions with the intention of units as well as the nodal point for for one common goal. I can boldly say ASB has performing ASB mandatory duties learning more. I believe I don’t distribution across the province to indeed promoted and put itself in the spotlight, and solving problems of his know everything. I learn even our areas of responsibility. My we strive for better service delivery always”, said subordinates. Whilst mindful of the from the lowest of the lowest members had to pack 8000 patrol Col Le Roux. rank, he does not let the rank be the ranks”, he reflected. ration-packs per week for more than He added that this sterling job and hard work deciding factor when it comes to The Acting Officer three months.” was done with the citizens of the country in who he helps as he welcomes Commanding took the challenges In all these projects, the acting OC mind: “we knew we were working for the citizen whoever has a problem to walk into that came with Covid-19 lockdown Mechanics of the Army Support Base Durban repairing vehicles used during deployment. commended his members for of this country, we did not think of ourselves. We his office. “This helps me to build a as a learning curve. What affording him support in ensuring decided to put our country first.” strong relationship with my unit. continues to make him happy is offered by ASB Durban. The ASB “pulled all the strenuous for the ASB to support that the unit performed its delegated Lt Col Le Roux mentioned that, being a Today we stand together, work the experience he came out with stops” in ascertaining that in the quest for its all these units within a short tasks successfully. “I could not have commander for a unit like the ASB is not easy but together and win together. The from this challenge. He takes this vision to satisfy its clients through dynamic period of time in the beginning. done the sterling job by myself. I have rather a challenging position. Besides managing success of the unit comes from the challenging year as an opportunity support, it gave its clients what they needed at “There was no reasonable time a very strong team; every single the daily duties of the unit, Lt Col Le Roux contribution of every individual in that might not happen to any all times in fighting Coronavirus. to get combat ready, get and member was a contributing factor to indicated that the post comes with managing this unit. I have learned a lot also commander that may come after The ASB supports 25 units in the KZN supply Personal Protective the success of this unit”. social matters of subordinates, which means one from the members of this unit. I am him, to him this year came as a region. Lt Col Le Roux highlighted that it was Equipment (PPE) and getting Metaphorically, the Col narrated also becomes the social worker at the same time. one person who is not afraid to ask learning curve.

22 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 23 SA Soldier TRIBUTE TRIBUTE SA Soldier SANDFaffordanothergiantandheroof our freedom a special category 1 funeral

By AB Samuel Ramonyai Photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala

uman rights lawyer and a social activist, Advocate George Bizos was accorded a befitting a Special Official Funeral category 1 at the Greek Orthodox Church in Mr Alexi Bizos, paying tribute to his H SANDF members paying last respects to the struggle stalwart. Johannesburg. A category 1 funeral is a laudation reserved for dear departed father. the most distinguished South Africans. Only the President holds He was more than a top-drawer lawyer, he Ramaphosa concluded his eulogy Peloponnese in Greece. He was the prerogative to determine who gets this state’s special and was Madiba’s confidante and one of three people saying: "Madiba your friend of 65 born on 14 November 1927, highest final farewell. (along with Justices Dikgang Moseneke and years is waiting to welcome you". although this was recorded Mr Bizos had a well-established practice as an Advocate from Themba Sangoni) trusted to serve as executors The Chaplain General of the incorrectly on his South African 1954, mostly defending opponents of apartheid, and held many of Mandela’s deceased estate. Bizos dedicated his SANDF, Brig Gen (Rev) Andrew identity documents as 1928, other appointments including serving on the Judicial Services legal career to fighting for human rights while Jamangile added that Advocate owing to his father's declaration to Commission (1994 - 2009), an Acting Judge in the High Court of representing numerous political activists, Bizos did what was right in the the authorities upon arrival in South Africa, and a Judge on the Appeal Court in Botswana, to including Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, sight of God. He added that his Egypt. name a few. He was the recipient of numerous Honorary among other accused in both the 1956 treason voice still speaks even though he is In May 1941 at the age of Doctorates, and national and international awards. Notably, he and 1963 Rivonia trials. no more. “He was a man of faith thirteen, Bizos and his father was awarded the Order for Meritorious Service Medal by Drawing on Bizos’s memoirs, President Cyril and it was in this climate of that helped seven New Zealand Army President Nelson Mandela in 1999. Ramaphosa attributed his commitment to faith he fought for justice, equality soldiers (Don Gladding, Mick He also played an instrumental role in the negotiations for defending members of the anti-apartheid and fairness,” he added. Karup, Peter Martin, John Lewis the release of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners and movement to Bizos’s own experience of “being a When he landed on the shores and three others) who were hiding together with Arthur Chaskalson and others, assisted in the second-class citizen in the land of one’s birth” of South Africa, the apartheid in the hills to escape the German- drafting of our democratic constitution, which he then defended after he was forced to flee his native Greece as a population were utterly helpless, occupied Greek mainland for vigorously. He was a lifelong refugee from the Nazi occupation. his work as a lawyer, political Crete. He recounts that the escape The President and campaigner against the use “It astounded him that he, a refugee from activist, and fighter for human did not go well – he was adrift for of the death penalty, and led Commander in Chief of the SANDF, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa Europe, had more rights in South Africa than the rights showed this nation how three days until he managed to the team that successfully giving the eulogy during black majority,” said President Ramaphosa. strong Bizos was. He described him attract the attention of crew on acted for the Government Advocate George Bizos’ “He could not and would not accept how he, as an incredible and a unique the British destroyer, HMS arguing that the death funeral service. a white immigrant, could be well-fed, clothed human being who dedicated his life Kimberley, which was on its way penalty was and educated while the native people of the for other people. to the Battle of Crete. After the unconstitutional. family members speaking at the country lived in squalor and deprivation.” “He had empathy and battle, HMS Kimberley dropped Uncle George or George funeral, Bizos was described as a Though Bizos was well known for his special compassion for the marginalised. him off at Alexandria, Egypt. as he was simply and humble man who rejected relationship with Nelson Mandela, mourners He made room in his heart for the As a refugee, Bizos was sent to affectionately called by materialism. Throughout his life were reminded that he defended countless other desperate and dispossessed. All his the Union of South Africa and those close to him, died at and distinguished career, Adv Struggle activists too: among them Barbara grandeur, self-esteem and strength landed in Durban. From there he his home of natural causes Bizos was a self-proclaimed Hogan, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela on more were compatible with humility and went by train to Johannesburg, at ripe age of 92. He was eternal optimist, a lover of than 20 occasions, and the late Ronnie Mamoepa. simplicity of devotion,” he said. disembarking at the Braamfontein buried next to his wife Rita liberty and democracy, and He also acted for those defending freedom “When it was not fashionable, railway station. At the time, the at the Westpark Cemetery in inspired by Aristotle, a and democracy in other countries, including the particularly to white South Ossewabrandwag, an Afrikaner Randburg. determined fighter against late Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Africans, George Bizos chose the group with Nazi sympathies, were His funeral saw the President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Bizos family. injustice and inequality. Tsvangirai. side of the powerless,” said former demonstrating against the arrival honour of the Commander His special relationship with "The apartheid government punished him Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang of refugees. in Chief of the South African National Defence the Greek Orthodox Church former and late President Nelson quite severely by denying him citizenship for Moseneke, who got his own start in The Ossewabrandwag blamed Force (SANDF), President Cyril Ramaphosa, in had to be kept in accordance Mandela captured the imagination and over three decades and there he was living law as Bizos’s junior. Jan Smuts for bringing the attendance as well as other luminaries of the Alert Level 3 lockdown he has been credited with adding the stateless in a country that he had adopted," vuilgoed (rubbish) of Europe to political, legal and civil society spheres who restrictions. crucial phrase “if needs be” to Madiba’s Ramaphosa said. George Bizos Obituary South Africa. The local Greek shared space with family and friends of the Numerous people who paid famous “I am prepared to die” speech The regime told him "he was not fit and Mr Bizos was the son of Antonios community helped integrate him veteran advocate at an event which Mr Alexi tribute remembered him as a from the dock during the Rivonia Trial, proper to become a South African citizen," said "Antoni" Bizos, the mayor of the into society. Bizos did not go to Bizos, the son of late Uncle George hinted had man of humility, integrity, and challenging Mandela to fight to live to the president. Mr Ramaphosa further described small village of Vasilitsi, south of school for his first two years in the been a challenge to organise due to strict Covid- above all as an advocate with a see the dismantling of apartheid in him as a "hero", a "lover of freedom" and Koroni and Kalamata on the country, because he could not 19 restrictions. The number of mourners inside passion for justice. Among South Africa. likened him to a "baobab tree". President Messenia peninsula of the speak English or Afrikaans.

24 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 25 SA Soldier TRIBUTE TRIBUTE SA Soldier SANDFbidsfarewelltoaformer Surgeon General

Article and photos by AB Samuel Ramonyai The Minister of Health Dr Zweli Mkhize, paying he long-time medical doctor to Ms Rosa Ramlakan, paying tribute to her father. homage to Lt Gen (ret) Vejay Ramlakan. the late former President Nelson TMandela, and former Surgeon General, as well as a struggle veteran, Lt Gen (ret) Vejay Ramlakan, died on 27 August 2020. Lt Gen (ret)Ramlakan died aged 62 The Chaplain General of the SANDF, Brig Gen (Rev) Andrew Jamangile leading poll bearers out of the city hall to the military hearse.

Health Services (SAMHS),” The minister said. Minister Mapisa-Nqakula said Lt Gen Ramlakan had a very Lt Gen Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of Lt Gen Rudzani Maphwanya, handing over Lt Gen Vejay special relationship with Madiba, Joint Operations. Ramlakan’s military uniform to Ms Rosa Ramlakan. describing it as extraordinary. The SANDF, a position he held until his retirement in first met Lt Gen (ret) Ramlakan in the commander of “Operation minister recalled how “tears were May 2015.” the 1980s while they were Butterfly”, a programme to running down Lt Gen Ramlakan’s The Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize studying. Naidoo said he would develop an integrated political- face” when Mandela died. “Vejay delivered the eulogy which recounted the time not permit considerations of military underground command was attached to Madiba,” she said. he served with Lt Gen Ramlakan in the Butterfly religion, race, politics or physical structure in the greater Durban She added that he was “brave Unit. “He was a brave warrior and we pay standing interfere with his area and a campaign to and eloquent” and committed to tribute to his wife Sandy Africa, who was also mission. destabilise the border regions of improving military health while part of the struggle. He chose a life of Lt Gen (Dr) Ramlakan South Africa. The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa- he was part of the service. patriotism. He fought a good fight and we immersed himself in the struggle His obituary mentioned that Nqakula addressing mourners at the funeral service. Outlining his career in the SANDF, honour him, may his soul rest in peace.” for freedom has had an illustrious he was born on 28 September following a suspected heart attack and was laid Veterans described Lt Gen the minister said: “His career saw The struggle stalwart, Mr Mac Maharaj also political, medical and military 1957, and came from a family of to rest in Durban with full military honours. Ramlakan as a humble servant of him holding various posts paid tribute to Lt Gen Ramlakan’s Children and career raging from serving on the eight children that shared a The funeral service was held in eThekwini the people and a courageous including his appointment as the wife. “I disagree that the suffering we endured Medical Students Representative loving home with their parents municipality’s City Hall. Among those who paid soldier. “Not only was he a soldier Director Planning of the SAMHS, in the struggle should be seen as sacrifice. We Council from 1979 to 1980 at the in Cato Manor, Durban. Lt Gen tribute to him were the Minister of Defence and but he was a man who was a Inspector General of the SAMHS, made our choices with little regard for the price University of Durban Westville, Ramlakan Joined Umkhonto we Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa- doctor, whose medical experience the General Officer Commanding to be paid by our loved ones. It is they who and later at the University of Natal Sizwe (MK) as an underground Nqakula, Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize, exposed him to health needs, not Area Military Health Formation, made the sacrifices. In that spirit I want to Medical School. Qualifying as a operative in 1977 and received African National Congress stalwart, Mac only of our troops but those of our Inspector General of the recognise Vejay’s three Children. You are medical doctor in 1980, he initially military training in South Africa Maharaj, Lt Gen Rudzani Maphwanya, Chaplain ordinary citizens. He contributed Department of Defence, Chief children of the revolution, may you always walk worked in the casualty and neighbouring Swaziland. General, Brig Gen (Rev) Andrew Jamangile and immensely to the policies, health Director Strategic Planning, tall.” He said. Department at King Edward VIII Lt Gen (ret) Ramlakan was his daughter Ms Rosa Ramlakan. strategies and structures of the Surgeon General of the SANDF and The obituary was given by another Butterfly Hospital. cremated at the clare Estate The minister of Defence and Military SANDF through the SA Military Chief Corporate Staff of the Unit comrade, Mr Ricky Naidoo, who said he Lt Gen(ret) Ramlakan was also Crematorium.

26 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 27 SA Soldier TRIBUTE TRIBUTE SA Soldier Defence Foreign Relations offers send-off Former Training Command General Officer to late Tanzanian Defence Attaché Commanding laid to rest LEFT: The late Brig Gen Nelson Msanja's son, Mr Samuel Msanja carries his portrait as Article and photos by Sgt Nkosinathi Nkosi Article and photos by S Sgt Itumeleng he observes Makhubela the send-off parade n Thursday morning, 03 September 2020, the Mabuza family and friends gathered at the rig Gen Nelson Msanja, the Tanzania proceedings. Defence Advisor and a member of the OFourways Cemetery in Johannesburg to bid BMilitary Attaché Advisory Corps (MAAC) their final farewell to the departed Maj Gen (Ret) passed away while on his tour of duty in South Gen Nelson Msanja Manfred Mabuza. He held various posts in Defence Africa. Defence Foreign Relations (DFR), remain with us Intelligence and was eventually appointed Senior Staff conducted a send-off parade in honour of the late forever and may Officer Strategic Intelligence. He was later promoted Brig Gen Msanja as his mortal remains are his soul rest in and appointed as a Personal Staff Officer (PSO) to repatriated to his home country. peace.” former chief SANDF, Gen Siphiwe Nyanda. Maj Gen The Chief of Defence Intelligence (C DI), Lt Maj Gen (ret) Mabuza was later transferred and appointed Director Gen Jeremiah Nyembe described him as an Gaudence Milanzi, Covert Collection before being promoted to Chief individual who contributed immensely to Tanzania High Director Counter Intelligence, a position he held until fostering and sustaining good relations between Commissioner he was appointed the Tanzania People's Defence Force and the SA expressed his General Officer appreciation to the Commanding government of the Republic of South Training Command Africa, in particular the Ministry of and responsible for Foreign Relations and Cooperation and all training the SANDF for their intervention and institutions of the assistance. Gen Milanzi said the send- off parade gave them the opportunity SANDF. He held this to witness a befitting military honour position until his and were grateful as it would remain a retirement in memory which would be cherished for December 2014. some time. Among those The Tanzania High Commissioner present to pay their further indicated that he was touched last respects were the in the manner in which SANDF and all Chief of the SANDF, relevant South African authorities Gen Solly Shoke and have handled the situation from the V Adm Asiel Kubu as the chief mourner The late Brig Gen Nelson Msanja's remains are airlifted with Tanzania the Chief Human time they received the sad news of the Maj Gen (Ret) Manfred Mabuza. handing over the national flag to the widow of aircraft carrier to prepare for his burial in his homes country. Resources, V Adm Maj Gen (Ret) Mabuza. passing of their colleague Brig Gen Asiel Kubu. During National Defence Force (SANDF). Lt Gen Nyembe Msanja started serving as a Nelson Msanja, following the his tribute, Gen Shoke said he was saddened by when it came to his work but on regulations and to take extra indicated that the deceased general strived for defence advisor in the Republic preparation for the transportation of the sudden passing of Maj Gen (Ret) Mabuza the other hand had a great sense precautions when it comes to their the continuance of the already existing bilateral of South Africa, he ensured that the his remains. because of the special friendship bond they had of humour. “Wally was a great health. agreements that were concluded few years ago. he always represented his Dean of the MAAC Corps, Brig Gen formed over the years. He said Maj Gen “Wally” as pleasure to work with, he had the Tributes honouring the late “We have gathered here today to pay tribute country with diligence and Norman Mathuvhunye said it was a those close to him affectionately called him, was capacity to perform his work very former Training Command General to our colleague, the United Republic of integrity. sorrowful day as they were gathered to more like family to him. Gen Shoke said that professionally and diligently and Officer Commanding came from Tanzania and the bereaved family and the He said: “He was accredited bid farewell to the late Brig Gen Nelson MAAC. The SANDF is indeed saddened and as a defence advisor under the Msanja, saying: “He was untimely taken when he announced the news of the passing of that will always show in the family, friends and colleagues all heartbroken by the passing of the fellow SANDF on the 15 of July 2018. away from us when he died in duty as a “Wally” to his own family it was received with quality of his output”. described him as a man who dearly brother, Brig Gen Nelson Msanja”, The Chief of The SANDF and the Tanzanian Tanzania defence advisor. His passing disbelief as almost everyone in his family did not Gen Solly Shoke also took the loved his family, his fellow men and Defence Intelligence lamented. Armed Forces have lost a great on has left a gap in our midst. We also foresee Maj Gen Mabuza’s untimely departure opportunity caution the mourners a man who was passionate about Lt Gen Nyembe said he salutes and honours soldier, a man of stature who pray that God grants the family of the from the land of the living. gathered in a small cemetery serving his country. Brig Gen Msanja for his role in striving to worked tirelessly to achieve the late Brig Gen Msanja strength to bear The CSANDF described the late Maj Gen chapel about the seriousness of Maj Gen (Ret) Mabuza is achieve peace and security in the region, objective of the defence attaché. the untimely loss of the head of the Mabuza as a highly devoted patriot, a servant of Covid-19 pandemic and advised survived by his wife Tshepo Mabuza highlighting that ever since the late Brig Gen May the fond memories of Brig family.” the people, a competent and meticulous man them to continue adhering to set and two sons.

28 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 29 SA Soldier TRIBUTE HEALTH MATTERS SA Soldier TheMilitarycommunitybidsfarewell AMHU KwaZulu-Natal continues to to theWarrant Officer of the SAMHS accelerate the fight against Covid-19

members in their area of responsibility who tested positive were sent to DoH facilities. By AB Samuel Ramonyai “The unavailability of a Photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala dedicated log and By S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela transport support team Photos by Cpl Jonathan Mogano hile insurance companies advocate for means that team immediate death benefit pay outs for members who were he SA Military Health Service WCovid-19 deaths, Area Military Health busy with testing duties (SAMHS) laid to rest the Unit KwaZulu-Natal (AMHU) continues to ramp- also had to run logistical up its efforts in testing communities to reduce errands and supply Warrant Officer of the service T the already large number of Covid-19 cases in the runs. Through it all, the after her untimely passing from a KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province. The earlier the teams ensured that the short illness. SCWO Nomsa Sebone as Coronavirus is detected and treated, the higher clinical tasks were not affectionately known, was described the chance of recovery and preservation of life. compromised,” she said. as a disciplined military member and The AMHU testing team moves from one Maj Sudha Bheemsan, SO2 Nursing, The Maj added that a person of great humility. community to another in KZN providing Covid-19 AMHU KZN, testing teams knew that The Surgeon General, Lt Gen Zola tests under the leadership of the Operational Maj highlighted. Testing is not only they would face challenges hence Dabula expressed grief at the loss of The Warrant Officer of the SANDF, MCWO Mothusi Kgaladi (right), Commander, Lt Col Rodwin Lewis, and Maj Sudha offered to the communities, they had plans and were prepared the life of SCWO Sebone. He said the handstheMemorabiliaofSCWOSebonetotheSurgeonGeneral, Bheemsan, SO2 Nursing AMHU KZN as the team members of the DoD also have their since Covid-19 went global in Commander for the Community Testing and Maj identified units where they can be February 2020. This has ensured last time he spoke with her was on Lt Gen Zola Dabula . Nomusa Nhlumayo, the team leader for the tested accordingly. The DoD testing that most of the challenges that the 12th of September while she was in hospital with her in Angola during exile SCWO Sebone Joined the SANDF Department of Defence (DoD) testing site. The site focuses primarily on DoD came their way were addressed and told her that she was not supposed to be being promoted to a General”. in 1995 with the rank of Staff entire testing team comprises 27 members members and their approved before they became a major where she was. “I told her that she was Maj Gen Mxakato said Sergeant at Area Military Health divided into five smaller teams. Each team has a dependants who are referred by the problem. supposed to be out there working with me to SCWO Sebone regarded her as Unit (AMHU) Gauteng (Gauteng Capt Primary Health Care qualified (PHC) as a sickbay, or the tracking and tracing In dealing with team and the help change the SAMHS. And her last words a sister because they are both Medical Command) and continued team leader namely: Capt Revelene Govender, office. individual fear of the invisible were, “Thanks you so much General, I am so from Soweto. She said that she working in different SAMHS Units Capt Ndumi Mbatha, Capt Zile Mkhize and Capt In performing this operation, enemy, Maj Bheemsan indicated glad to hear that from you.” will be remembered as a including, AMHU NC, and 7 Med Bn Thabsile Mthethwa. Maj Bheemsan indicated that the that they were confident that the Lt Gen Dabula told the bereaved Sebone soldier that epitomised Gp. In 2000 she was transferred to Maj Bheemsan’s role in this mission is to major challenge has been the training they have received was provide the overall management and scheduling family that it was a great honour and privilege discipline and dedication. SAMHS HQ as a chief clerk at the inadequate supply of Personal good enough to save them. She of the teams’ troubleshooting as well as filling the Protective Equipment (PPE). added that, Maj Nhlumayo who is to have met her and should also celebrate her The beginning of her Surgeon Generals’ office. gap in the testing site should any of the PHC However, she said they have been their Infection Prevention and life. “She was a woman who wore many caps; military career was in exile In 2001 she was promoted to the nurses be unavailable or if there is a large number fortunate that the OC of AMHU Control coordinator and herself, first as a mother to her children, sibling, an when she joined the ANC rank of WO2. In 2005 she was of people to be tested. In her capacity as Nursing KZN, Col Trevor Pillay has been together with the DoH have had all aunt, a grandmother, a colleague and most Umkhonto Wesizwe in 1977. promoted to WO1 and appointed as Area Manager, Maj Bheemsan said she also adamant and dedicated in ensuring the members from the testing importantly and a struggle icon to the SCWO Sebone was born 13 July RSM at Institute of Aviation ensures that the clinical environment at the sites that all members get the basic teams trained to ensure their revolutionary movement. We will remember 1961 in Alexandra Township. Medicine. In 2007 she was that they are expected to work in, is safe and requirements even if it meant using safety. “We repeat protocols to our her with compassion for she had care for all of She attended her primary appointed as Chief Warrant Officer meets the requirements for Covid-19 prevention. Unit funds to purchase such PPEs. members and we ensure that they us. She displayed diligence for work and school in Orlando West at Military Health Support “We cannot afford to risk the lives of our “The bureaucratic and protracted are performing all necessary members, before we go to any place for testing unparalleled love and commitment in Extension, and completed her Formation. On 01 September 2012, procurement process impacts on protocols every day. The we ensure safety first,” she said the timeous availability of critical dedication of our Unit in ensuring everything that she does.” Said the SG. High School at Alexandra high she was appointed as Warrant She confirmed that every morning the team PPEs, but we persevere. It is that we have the required PPEs has Maj Gen Mammy Mxakato also spoke highly school in 1976. Her career Officer of the South African Military assembles at the Bluff Military Base with a through commitment to the safety also given the team the confidence of the late SCWO Sebone, she indicated that the highlights while on training in Health Service till her untimely protection section and then leaves to their of our personnel that we have had to perform their tasks”. last memory she had of SCWO Sebone was on exile include, being selected to death. Her post nominal titles were designated site (the sites change according to the such a low rate of infection amongst While the country is on eased the 1st of June 2020. It was the day she was partake in the Moscow youth MMS, MMB. Her achievements also Department of Health (DoH) requirements). On the team,” she mentioned. lockdown alert level 1, being promoted when SCWO Sebone came in festival in the Union of Soviet included the Unitas Medal; arrival at the site, the team starts screening the Despite the efforts by the OC of Coronavirus is not gone and a holding her ranks and handing them over to the Socialist republic (USSR) in Tshumelo Ikatelaho; 30 year general community or household and performs swab tests AMHU KZN, Col Pillay and the vaccine has not been discovered Surgeon General to bestow on her shoulders. 1985. She was recommended to service and good service within and for those that are symptomatic. These swabs are General Officer Commanding yet. Therefore the AMHU will taken by the DoH to their laboratories where they “On that day I remember in her face that she study political science in the beyond the borders of RSA. Interim Provincial Commander continue to accelerate its efforts are processed. KZN, Brig Gen Siphiwe Dlomo, Maj to safe communities by providing was very jovial and happy. She also mentioned German Democratic Republic SCWO Sebone was married to Based on the test results, the DoH Joint Bheemsan mentioned that they screening and testing, she said. something that resonated with me. She said to (GDR). She was posted to serve the late Warrant Officer of the Operations Centre generates contact lists and have not been able to The AMHU testing team has me that she never thought in her lifetime she in the ANC Department of SAMHS, SCWO Moses Matumi hotspot areas. These lists are then given to the operationalize their own quarantine gone and continue to go into the would witness that one of her own who trained information and publicity. Sebone. teams to go out and do testing and screening, the facilities. This meant that the lion’s den.

30 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 31 SA Soldier HEALTHMATTERS FRONTLINE HEROES SA Soldier SAMHSdevelopsacontainerisedmodule Frontlineworkersappreciationparade of a Level 2 Field hospital at 2 Mil Hospital inWynberg

Article and photos by AB Thabang Ramphago, Public Information Centre, J TAC HQ Western Cape Article and photos by Lt Thabo Tukula, SAMHS Corporate Military Hospital in Wynberg held a Communication special appreciation parade to honour all 2South African Military Health Service he SA Military Health (SAMHS) frontline workers on 17 September Service (SAMHS) has 2020. The parade was aimed at acknowledging Tbuilt a concept module those who sacrificed their lives in the line of for a containerised Level 2 field hospital. A Level 2 field hospital is the highest level of medical care facility within the combat zone. In land-based operations, the Level 2 field hospital deploys in the B Echelon and can be as Frontline Workers Appreciation Parade at 2 Military Hospital in Wynberg. far as 80-90 kilometres away from the A-Echelon. The Level 2 field hospital normally deploys near an existing airfield and/or A containerised module of a Level 2 Field hospital was developed by the close to main or secondary SA Military Health Service. roads as well as rail network to expedite casualty evacuations. It forms part of combination of all of the demands in a limited timeframe, as the medical battalion group deployment and aforementioned. it can be expanded within a matter supports a force from a Battalion to Brigade of seconds and thus be operational strength. In combat, the wounded need immediately. In addition, the design access to a safe environment, could be of such a nature that it can The Chief Director Military Health Force where they can receive competent be airlifted by the current lift Maj Amelia Du Plessis and Maj Helen Support Maj Gen Lesley Ford designed the surgical treatment backed by good capability of the South African Air Moteane lighting the candles in Level 2 containerised field hospital module. It nursing care all within a well- Force (SAAF). remembrance of fallen soldiers, frontline is made of a steel container, which will organised system equipped with workers and their independents who lost enhance the SAMHS in its deployment adequate supplies such as water For the longest time from early days their lives during Op NOTLELA. capabilities in the future. and power. Such a facility is highly of formal defence forces, a critical duty and appreciate the ones currently fighting mobile and can be deployed under relationship has always existed an unseen enemy, the Coronavirus pandemic. Depending on the configuration, the module canvas facilities for most combat between military technology, the The members of South African National can be remotely controlled from a mobile or Peace Support Operations away tactics of its employment, and the The national flag is lowered during the Frontline Workers Defence (SANDF) are in the frontline fighting an Appreciation Parade held at 2 Military Hospital in Wynberg. phone. This new wave of technology was from the normal built psychological factors that binds its unseen enemy in our communities and conduct conceptualised and took Maj Gen Ford years of environment. users into units. Therefore, success Covid-19 screening, testing, educating and appreciation programs. victory. A positive mindset and research and planning using his personal in combat relies on creations and creating awareness amongst various the The OC of 2 Military Hospital, willing, patriotic individuals will resources. Hence, the intellectual property The birth of the SAMHS innovations such as this module. communities in South Africa daily. Col Jack Molomo encouraged win the war against Covid-19. My remains that of the designer. The prototype containerised Level 2 hospital Moreover, this Level 2 hospital Apart from the provision of personalised members to continue displaying gift to all of you is what I call an was built with a used container, painted and module embodies all the could possibly be produced by counselling services, preventive, promotive and ‘Ubuntu’ by selflessly caring for the “Ubuntu ATAC” which stands for fitted by SAMHS artisans who were the important elements needed, as SAMHS artisans, and thus serves as workplace programmes, the Social Work nation even at the risk of their own ‘All Together Against Covid-19”, he products of Studies at State Expense at the time plays a crucial role during an opportunity to promote the skills Department with the support of the Officer lives. He applauded the role of the said. The OC encouraged the nation Technical Support Unit. This container can operational health support to and development of soldiers. This Commanding (OC), Chaplaincy and Warrant SANDF in its efforts to support the to support health care workers and either be powered by electricity, solar power injured soldiers. This container prototype has been presented to the Officers and other multi-disciplinary teams of Department of Health. “A unified to continuously be vigilant and to or by use of hydrogen fuel cells, or a will be able to handle such SAMHS Command Structure. 2 Military Hospital focused on smaller team approach will lead us to abide by the regulations.

32 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 33 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE SA Soldier

SecretaryDay-Takingacloserlookinto Ms Botha was again School (CFS) as a Senior Secretary. transferred to AFB The Officer Commanders was Col Hoedspruit as a data Blom and Col Donavan Chetty the hard work of secretaries in the SAAF typist to Base Aircraft (current OC). She gained an Servicing Section. After immeasurable amount of three years at AFB knowledge from CFS and the Hoedspruit, she was members working there, she transferred being back learned to appreciate people that to Pretoria to AFB cross her path and to respect their Waterkloof, 21 views. Squadron where she Article by Amn Zandile Jantjies was the secretary. “I have been to many places, met Photos by WO2 Renier Botha and From 21 Squadron she many people and as a Defence F Sgt Bernadette Gildenhys was transferred to Civilian, I’ve seen a lot of changes Armscor, Defence over the years serving my country. ome specialized positions are Headquarters, I am still very proud and blessed to so indispensable that it is quite Directorate Military be working for the South African Sinconceivable not to have Strategy. In the years Air Force. I attribute my success them in our everyday professional she served at and the ability to have a positive lives. A case in point is the position Directorate Military influence in my work environment of a secretary. Those who benefit Strategy, Brig Gen Les and the people around me to my from the administrative support Rudman has been a Savior, Jesus Christ”. Said Ms services of secretaries are quick to person of great Botha. express how hard and stressful their influence who expected her to do the During an interview with Theresa From Left to Right: Ms task assigned to her a couple of personal revelations Theresa Botha, Ms Joelaine Chetty, Col correctly the first time about her encounters and Donovan Chetty and and with enthusiasm. experiences were mentioned and WO2 Renier Botha: Attending secretary that her biggest fascination was PhotobyFSgt courses helped to her ability to turn what usually Bernadette Gildenhys. enhance her capability, comes as a small piece of paper to become a successful whether it is a request or a secretary. message into something larger. in the South African She also shared stratagems that National Defence Force as a After some years at keep her going. “Being the OC’s Public Service Act Personnel Defence Headquarters, secretary you learn to be Certificate received from Col Donavan chetty, Theresa was once again constantly alert and precautious at or civilian. Ms Botha was Officer Commanding of the Central Flying School at born and raised in Air Force Base Langebaanweg. Photo by WO2 transferred back to the all times”, she said. Northwest, Rustenburg. Renier Botha. Air Force at 68 Air Because of her father’s School where she was In conclusion in her beautiful career, she moved a fair career at Air Force Base (AFB) Waterkloof, staffed as a Senior Secretary. The contagious laugh, Theresa amount of times from place Central Phototechnical Establishment (CPE). Officers Commanding that she confessed in her line of duty there to place across South Africa Her first Officer Commanding (OC) was Capt served at 68 Air School were Col is always a room for improvement while growing up. Her Fanus Schoeman. During this period at CPE, Patrick Sehlare, Col Frank and skill development, she career in the military started Capt Schoeman taught her the inner workings Whitehouse, Col Dirk Blom and Col expressed that typing faster is a in 1990, her father who was of the Air Force and how the Air Force Abel Letlape. Giving secretarial skill that she could improved. a Regimental Sergeant Major expected one to perform one’s duties support to these OCs compelled her Members of the previous Silver Falcons team with Ms Theresa Botha. From Left (RSM) in the military played diligently. to be efficient due to the fast paced Secretaries are an integral part of to Right: Maj Bheki Shabangu, Maj Tiaan Stander, Ms Theresa Botha, Maj environment that she found herself the organization. May we always Omphile Mutloane, Maj Corne Van Deventer, Maj Sivu Tangana. Photo by WO2 a tremendous role in her Renier Botha. chosen path. Shortly after she started at CPE, she was working in, her experience and appreciate those who work in transferred to Air Force Headquarters in knowledge helped her to be the administration, handling of jobs would be without the effective and efficient honour our beloved sedulous For the past 19 years she has been Church Street, Pretoria where she worked as a right arm of the different Officers appointments, and the managing help of their secretaries. secretary Ms Theresa Botha who living in Langebaan with her two data typist at Directorate Public Relations. Commanding. of paperwork. Keeping everything on 27 September 2020 reached a children and her husband Warrant She was later transferred to Display Services organized and moving, they do Recently we celebrated Secretary’s Day on the milestone of 30 years in her career Officer Class 2 (WO2) Renier Botha. behind the new HQ building where she was Lastly Theresa was transferred to what most people cannot do on a 2nd of September 2020 and what better way to of unbroken service as a Secretary Theresa started her Secretary the secretary to OC, Capt Willie Smith. AFB Langebaanweg, Central Flying day to day basis.

34 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 35 SA Soldier FOCUSONPEOPLE FOCUS ON PEOPLE SA Soldier

I then presented to 2 are always in the frontline”. Frontline healthcare practitioner highlights Military Hospital and AMHU WC staff How has Covid-19 changed your members. These daily routine as an IPC roleofInfection,PreventionandControl presentations served as practitioner? core knowledge for staff “The reality is that with the at 2 Military Hospital members to equip them advent of Covid-19, a normal with the necessary forty hour week is no longer knowledge and practical possible. The added Covid-19 IPC skills to manage Covid-19 responsibilities require extended cases. With the working hours and irregular continuous change and standby hours. The IPC By Maj Siphokazi Dlakamela update of the disease department’s administrative Photos courtesy Capt Cornel Cloete information, training is involvement is to identify and ongoing. It is the follow up positive Covid-19 cases, hile the country battles the scourge of responsibility of the IPC thereby reporting positive or the Covid-19 pandemic, healthcare practitioner to negative results directly to Wworkers in the fore front of this battle, disseminate new and patients and further logging have been hailed as “superheroes without capes”. Iillustrating the wearing of a mask. relevant information”. positive cases on the NICD While some people had the luxury of finding platform. Situation reports refuge behind locked doors during the National Communicable diseases notification is priority What are your fears in the frontline (Sitreps) are compiled daily and State of Disaster, healthcare workers soldiered on, set by law which include for example in the fight against COVID-19? sent to various stakeholders for showing immensAe dedication in preserving lives Tuberculosis (TB), malaria, measles and the “In my opinion, the fear of the the broader tactical and in their respective professions. recent Covid-19”. unknown is most unsettling. The operational management of the Capt Cornel Cloete is one of the frontline “The IPC department collaborates with the awareness of the fact that as the pandemic. The IPC department is workers at 2 Military Hospital responsible for Quality Assurance department and facilitates all infection rate increase, there would further involved in alluding Infection, Prevention and Control (IPC) with her in-service training and workshops. All new be an influx of Covid-19 positive Occupational Health and Safety extended scope of practice to Area Military Heath Capt Cornel Cloete, overseeing Infection and Prevention products related to infection prevention and patients to 2 Military Hospital, (OHS), Environmental Health and Western Cape (AMHU WC) and the Institute for Control measures at 2 Military Hospita, in her office. control are tested and evaluated before needed one to be ready. My only City of Cape Town Disaster Maritime Medicine (IMM). In any health facility, of the virus while promoting hand In addition, I completed Nursing disseminated to the various departments. concern was the availability of Management about the necessary emphasis and priority is put on infection control hygiene. The IPC department Administration in 2006 at the Inferior products impacting infection Personal Protective Equipment contact tracing, cluster outbreaks as a crucial preventative measure to ensure compiled Unit Orders and University of South Africa (UNISA) prevention and control are reported timeously (PPE), high probability of frontline and self-isolation issues diseases are contained or brought to manageable Standard Operating Procedures as well as a postgraduate diploma to the necessary authorities. Strong relations workers contracting the virus and respectively”. levels. In the span of the contagious coronavirus, that were to serve as guidelines in in Infection Prevention and and collaboration with the logistical department whether the nation will experience “On the clinical platform, IPC IPC contributes immensely to curbing the spread the management of suspected or Control in 2006 at the University of are essential for IPC to maintain and deliver its resurgence”. is involved in liaising with the coronavirus. confirmed Covid-19 cases. Stellenbosch”. mandate”. logistics department regarding Capt Cloete joined the SA Military Health Furthermore, the team was tasked What does it mean to serve in the the procurement and supply of Service (SAMHS) in 1996. She was raised in a with setting-up screening and What is a daily routine for IPC What does it mean to be entrusted with a role to military, especially serving in the PPE with precise specifications military environment that entrenched the love testing stations, establish Covid-19 member at 2 Military Hospital? manage infection control during the surge of front-line against Covid-19 as beyond the normal process prior for serving in the military. She said what inspired ward and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) “A standard day would include highly infectious coronavirus? woman? to Covid-19. The pandemic has her in joining the military was the environment with Nurses and Doctors at 2 clinical, administrative and liaison “The following quote by Rosa Parks puts the ‘What you do makes a difference, also fostered deeper where she grew up. “I was raised within a military Military Hospital. duties. The day typically starts at current situation and my responsibilities as an and you have to decide what kind of relationships with the private environment whereby our family resided in a Capt Cloete’s functions in 06:30 with priority visit to the IPC Officer in perspective: ‘Knowing what must difference you want to make’ – Jane and public sector. Tele- military home and my father served in the South curbing the spread of infections in microbiology laboratory to obtain be done does away with fear’. The unknown has Goodall. “As women, we have to communication regarding Covid- African Army for thirty years. The constant the hospital includes clinical a list of all specimens that were been very daunting because as frontline workers trust in what we think and we do 19 matters have also added to the military exposure inculcated deep rooted military supervision in ensuring a high requested the previous day. we were and currently are treading in not need magic to change the already mammoth task. The attributes of discipline, to care and to serve. standard of cleanliness Monitoring and disseminating unchartered waters. The current pandemic has world, we already carry all the success in the management of Joining SAMHS was a natural progression to heed throughout the hospital. This these laboratory results to the been the most challenging time for IPC power we need inside ourselves. Covid-19 cases can be attributed the call to serve my country and its people but varied from medical waste to linen ward is essential information for practitioners globally. Despite the challenges, it There is no limit to what we, as to a dynamic Covid-19 patient also to continue the military legacy of my father”, management. She takes us daily ward rounds but also has been the most rewarding feeling as an IPC women, can accomplish. As a management team who consists Capt Cloete narrated. through her role as an IPC officer essential to monitor for potential practitioner in the fight against Covid-19 to be military Nursing Officer, it is not of myself, Maj (Dr) Sanshiya The IPC team was initially deployed in the at 2 Military Hospital. healthcare associated infections. part of a knowledgeable team at 2 Military the absence of fear, it is overcoming Singh and Capt (Registered fight against Covid-19 in February 2020 at Cape Administrative duties are vast, but Hospital”. it whether you are holding Nurse) Susanna Kotze”. Town International Airport where the team was What did you study? the essential daily tasks include someone’s hand taking their last mainly tasked to screen all inbound international “I studied a four year Nursing updating all health associated Are you providing any training to the other staff breath or fighting an invisible Remember to wear your passengers. As the cases of Covid-19 in the Diploma in General Nursing statistics on various platforms members? enemy. We are born to serve. In mask, wash your hands and country were reported, Infection, Prevention and Science, Midwifery, Community which include the broad categories “Since the discovery of the pandemic, the these times, I emulate the SAMHS adhere to social distancing…we Control team rushed against the time to Nursing and Psychiatry at SAMHS of communicable and non- National Institute for Communicable Diseases motto that says Audaces Servamus- are in this together, one for all disseminate core knowledge about transmission Nursing College from 1996 to 1999. communicable diseases. (NICD) provided Covid-19 related training, which We Serve the Brave and the brave and all for one.

36 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 37 SA Soldier EVENTS EVENTS SA Soldier

certain instances where people 1 Military Hospital adds a state-of-the-art would be housed in small areas, we were requested to isolate those ICU facility to its anti-Covid-19 arsenal areas either by putting a physical barrier or closing off completely.” Maj Gen Ledwaba continued. He indicated that apart from other facilities, 1 Military Hospital was a huge project that required not only isolation or quarantine spaces, but high care and ICU with high-end medical equipment. Maj Gen By S Sgt Itumeleng Makhubela Ledwaba added that the facilities Photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala will remain operational for many years to come as they were he 7th floor at 1 Military Hospital, the constructed with future utilisation country’s premium military hospital saw in mind. Tan extensive reconstruction and refurbishment which resulted in a complete The new ICU units fitted with state-of- transformation of the floor. 78 Intensive Care the-art medical equipment. Unit (ICU) beds with state-of-the-art equipment that post the pandemic, we now will have a ward were installed at the institution. It is envisaged this huge as an ICU unit,” the Minister that the “structural facelift” will drastically The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe confirmed. improve the institution’s high care and life Mapisa-Nqakula officially unveils the upgraded 1 Military The Surgeon General of the SANDF, Lt Gen support capability. Hospital 7th floor. Zola Dabula said Covid-19 presented a unique challenge as they were concerned about the state of readiness of facilities and had to move swiftly to create capacity at 1 Mil. He said the hospital needed to prepare and ensure that there were enough beds for any worst case scenario. The ward will still operate post Covid-19 as a response to any pandemic of similar nature as the Coronavirus. Lt Gen Dabula said: “The term Legacy Project came up when the Minister chaired a meeting with her Deputy, at a time when it seemed Reconstruction stage (a) and the reconstructed (b) isolation difficult to achieve the completion of the floor units where members will be monitored under quarantine. renovations on time. However, with the assistance and support of leadership and refurbished and prepared to allow In addition to the renovations dedication of our members, we made it happen.” us to set up and accommodate at the 7th floor, the DWF has The General Officer Commanding Defence members. installed the hydrogen fuel cells. The ward during reconstruction to a state-of-the-art ward (left) and the newly reconstructed and refurbished ward (right). Works Formation (GOC DWF), Maj Gen Joseph “We have travelled They provide power supply to the Ledwaba who has been at the forefront of the throughout the country to find field hospital that was set up at the The Minister of Defence and Military the crisis created an opportunity “I am happy about the renovations said they were proud that the floor suitable structures in all the areas, parking area of 1 Military Hospital. Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula recently to speed up the process of partnership which we have with the was completed in adhering strictly to the World also bearing in mind the number Maj Gen Ledwaba said the unveiled legacy project meant to mitigate the renovations at the hospital which Development Bank of Southern Health Organisation (WHO) standards and of people and what would happen Department of Science and impact of Covid-19 within the South African has been in the pipeline for some Africa (DBSA) and the work that guidelines. should they be affected in large Technology was on early stages of National Defence Force (SANDF) and ensure that time,” she said. have been done by the Defence He said DWF was guided by South African numbers. We then considered how experimenting on the hydrogen the hospital is better placed to cater for the After the reconstruction and Works Formation (DWF) which was Military Health Service (SAMHS) to articulate those people could be fuel cell and they approached healthcare needs of its patients. refurbishment, the ICU, high care completed in only five weeks. We their structural needs so that it can be followed accommodated and assisted.” said SANDF to have them installed at Speaking to SA Soldier Magazine at the and isolation wards were fitted now have 78 ICU beds with state-of- by designs and partitioning of spaces. For the GOC DWF. the hospital. unveiling, Minister Mapisa-Nqakula said that with high-tech equipment which the-art infrastructure. In fact, we instance, they may indicate certain areas for “We have also looked at other Further upgrades are expected the outbreak of Covid-19 demanded that swift included much needed ventilators are moving forward with all the isolation and others for ICU. areas wherein the SAMHS to continue in the rest of the action needed to be taken to create capacity for for covid-19 patients. Minister other floors, particular casualty and The DWF also shared the responsibility of requested that we create yellow hospital to give the SANDF the hospital to extend care to a wide pool of Mapisa-Nqakula said the SANDF theatre, which can be done within a building quarantine facilities around the country areas where patients would not be members and the entire military patients. “When Covid-19 outbreak started in was moving with speed to avoid short period of time. The reason I with other stakeholders. Most were built in less permitted to mix with people who community the best health care South Africa, a conscious decision was taken as losing soldiers to the Coronavirus. call it Covid-19 Legacy Project is than a month as a lot of them were mainly would be providing food. In experience.

38 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 39 SA Soldier EVENTS INSIGHT SA Soldier The Commandant of the Military Academy Reserve Force Council’s Proposed Reserve presented medals and long service Force Model certificates

By Maj Engela Meintjes Photos: Cpl Kea Kgori

he Commandant of the Military Article and photo by Academy, Brig Gen Gerald Pharo Tsundzuka Vicky presented thirty-three medals and two T Mthombeni, long service certificates during a medal parade Communication Officer held at the unit in Saldanha on 9 October 2020. Defence Force Service Due to Covid-19 that hit South Africa earlier this Comission year, the all-important parade had to be postponed. he Reserve Force In a first of its kind parade, members Council (RFC) Ms T. Clarke TChairperson, Maj receiving her ten Gen (Ret) Keith year Long Service Mokoape, made a certificate. presentation to the Defence Force Service and sacrifices from Commission (DFSC) loved ones that plenary session held at From left to right, back standing: Adv. Nokuzola Khumalo (Commissioner), Dr enabled soldiers to the DFSC Head Office, Ziyaad Essop (Commissioner), Mr Joseph Jongile (Commissioner), Dr Siphelele achieve these awards. Pretoria, on 16 October Zulu (Commissioner) and Adv. Linda Mbana (Commissioner). Brig Gen Pharo 2020. He presented the Proposed Reserve Force From left to right, front seated: Ms Sebina Hlapolosa (DFSC Deputy Chairperson), then congratulated Mr Ian Robertson (DFSC Chairperson), Maj Gen (Ret) Keith Mokoape, (RFC the newly appointed Model towards a holistic Chairperson), and Col (Ret) Monica Muller, RFC Councillor. Officers and reminded and integrated Reserve them of the Force system to the DFSC. by Maj Gen Roy Andersen and to reiterated what the Minister said responsibilities the Deputy Minister of Defence when the she indicated that South accompanying their The presentation outlined the roadmap for the and Military Veterans, Mr Africa had reached a point where new appointments. He future Reserve Force system that will support Thabang Makwetla. it must make a decision on the also encouraged them the developmental agenda. In his presentation kind of Defence Force it wants and to be proud of their Maj Gen (Ret) Mokoape quoting a proverb He further indicated that most of what it can afford. ranks and continue saying: “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if the presentation focused on striving to make, and you want to go far, go together”. He emphasised challenges outlined by the The presented model was then be, positive the importance of joint collaboration of the two Minister of Defence and Military agreed and accepted by the differences in their entities to work together towards the Veterans, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa- Commission. They all agreed that Members receiving their twenty year “Getroue Diens” medals. In front, the improvement of the conditions of service and Nqakula especially in the May the model will be best workable as Commandant of the Miltary Academy, Brig Gen Gerald Pharo. working environments. service benefits of the South African National 2018 Budget Vote. The a tripartite alliance of the DFSC, received either ten or twenty year “Getroue Gen Pharo congratulated the Brig Gen Pharo concluded by Defence Force (SANDF) members, both development of this model was RFC and the Defence Reserve Diens” medals, as well as ten and twenty year recipients of the awards and congratulating everyone that permanent and Reserve Force respectively. propelled by the contents this Board as per the presentation. The Long Service certificates all masked up and thanked them for their received an award and said: “Wear speech. “I have directed that the DFSC Commissioners and RFC adhering to Covid-19 social distancing rules. commitment and loyalty towards your medals and ranks with pride Retired Maj Gen said that the RFC was whole Reserve Force system must Councillors present agreed to work After conferring the medals, as part of the their country. He mentioned that and dignity and please continue embarking on a consultative process with both be overhauled. I expect the together to advance the proposed formalities, Brig Gen Pharo also promoted medals were a way for the SANDF with your loyal service towards the internal and external stakeholders. He Reserve Force Council to make Reserve Force Model towards a twenty seven Officers from among the student to thank them for their service. Military Academy, SANDF and our highlighted that the model has already been inputs in this regard”, said the holistic and integrated reserve body. During his address to the attendees, Brig He also acknowledged the support country.” presented to the Defence Reserve Board chaired Minister. Maj Gen Mokoape also force system.

40 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 41 SA Soldier EVENTS EVENTS SA Soldier Joint Senior Command and Staff Programme hosts virtual Graduation Ceremony

Article and photos by L Cpl Paul Mpangala

he Joint Senior Command and TStaff Programme (JSCSP) is a learning programme that prepares selected senior officers for senior appointments at the operational level, with distinctive overlap JSCSP Student officers of 19/2020. onto the military strategic level by and the rest of the JSCSP student body. The fact commenced with the evolution of success of the course was not developing their that two students lost their lives during the warfare course. Due to the hampered by these new command, staff, problem academic period took a toll on her. “Being the pandemic, these presentations adaptations. “However, with solving and analytical youngest member on course and a medical had to be conducted by means of a innovative thinking the outcome Lt Col (Dr) Nokulunga Ndlovu receiving her best overall academic student award skills which broadens the presented to her by Brig Gen Nombewu, the Commandant of the War College. doctor meant that I had to provide my medical virtual online communication was successfully achieved by student professional expertise to fellow students and to a certain format to eliminate the possibility using different methodologies of understanding of single service joint luxury due to the volume of for as a military medical extent offer assistance to staff members too,” of contacting the deadly delivery taking full advantage of combined operations. work,” she confessed about her practitioner,” she said. she added. Coronavirus. technology and other convenient lack of sleep due to the workload. ways without necessarily nor “As busy and as challenging 2020 was, it didn’t Not only was she a student on the Lt Col Ndlovu said: “Pursuit of Brig Gen Siseko Nombewu, the Commandant of “In adapting to the Covid-19 new deliberately putting the students’ disturb me nor deter me from my academic JSCSP, she was also fortunate to be excellence, knowledge and the War College, indicted that in addition to all reality, the 2020 JSCSP had lives at risk of contracting the performance. I believe in hard work and afforded the opportunity to understanding has been a motto I the empowerment advantages that the JSCSP to adjust the academic modus virus”, quipped Gen Nombewu. doing my best each and every time”, these register for the Postgraduate have lived by since my younger course brings; it further exposes and equips operandi by not conducting any were thesentiments from the overall Diploma in Defence studies with years and this has carried me students to the complexities and convolutions capability visits to the Western The JSCSP 19/2020 comprised JSCSP achiever, Lt Col Nokulunga Ndlovu the University of Stellenbosch. through until now.” of the management of a Defence Force in Cape, the military history staff 40 Student officers from the speaking with SA Soldier during the peacekeeping missions and various aspects of ride to Kwazulu-Natal and the South African Army, 13 from the JSCSP virtual graduation ceremony. Lt Col “This meant more work and Not only was she academically disaster and or conflict management to regional experiential study to South African Air Force, 07 from Ndlovu pushed all the odds to become the sleepless nights, but it also kept challenged but psychologically she effectively and efficiently fight and win future Angola and Uganda; which are the South African Navy and 08 best student for the Commandant’s research me focused. I learnt a lot during was put through her paces too. In wars. considered the highlights of the from the South African Military paper as well as the best overall academic this year. The subjects were really many respects, 2020 undoubtedly programme,” said the Health Service. Other students student for JSCSP this year. divergent from a medical degree, proved to be most challenging year. The Programme commenced on 20 January Commandant. who completed the programme and I guess this made it more Facing the Covid-19, lockdown and 2020. After the induction and team building were 03 from Defence This year has not been easy for Lt Col Ndlovu. interesting and expanded my quarantine during this course at the phase, the academic modules for the post Having the latter, Gen Nombewu Intelligence and 9 International “There were nights where sleep became a real knowledge - which I always strive War College was not easy for her graduate diploma in defence studies was quick to indicate that the students.

42 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 43 SA Soldier EVENTS EVENTS SA Soldier Air Force Base Langebaanweg plants trees at Noordhoek Primary School LEFT: Grade 6 learners who participated in the tree planting activities.

Article and photos supplied by Capt Gramville Kuilders, Environmental Officer Air Force Base Langebaanweg

fter a young and vibrant teacher requested Warrant Officer Michael Pedro Afor assistance to beautify the area at the school, on 16 October 2020, Air Force Base (AFB) Langebaanweg led an outreach programme at Noordhoek Primary School initiated by the Environmental Services Section. This project was managed and run by Capt Gramville Kuilders, WO1 Michael Pedro and F Sgt Shefton Maarman (Environmental Services Air Force Base Langebaanweg). Whilst the end result seemed to be to beautify the surrounding areas at the school, the main aim was to plant trees around the sport facilities at the school in Noordhoek (Velddrift) was to create awareness about the The Principal of Noordhoek Primary School, Mr Mervyn Ruiter planting the Ekebergia capensis - Cape Ash presented by Marceline first tree on behalf of Boois the school (Tree of to the Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries for making it the year: Ekebergia possible for us to educate people on the importance of trees and the capensis - Cape Ash/ Essenhout). role trees play in our daily lives . Thank you that we could help to Syzygium cordatum - Water Berry presented populate our areas and South Africa with indigenous trees supplied by Ashly Gordon by the people of South Africa for future generations.

Mervyn Ruiter and Ms Did you know? Dene Loubser who was the mastermind behind • Treesbenefittheenvironment- Trees absorb carbon dioxide as also invaluable for children to play in and the tree planting project. they grow and the carbon that they store in their wood helps discover their sense of adventure. Mr Darryl Dreyer slow the rate of global warming.They reduce wind speeds and • Treesgrowtheeconomy-People are attracted from the Fossil Park was cool the air as they lose moisture and reflect heat upwards from to live, work and invest in green surroundings. invited as a guest their leaves. Trees also help prevent flooding and soil erosion, Research shows that average house prices are The executors of the Arbor Day Celebration. speaker to entertain the absorbing thousands of litres of stormwater. 5-18% higher when properties are close to importance of trees. The theme for the project trees were planted during the learners by presenting the • Treesboostwildlife- Trees host complex microhabitats, they mature trees and pristine environment. was “Forest and Biodiversity” and the slogan ceremony which was presented by importance and the roll that trees offer habitation and food to amazing communities of birds, Companies benefit from a healthier, happier was “Trees in our lives” a few grade 6 learners who gave an play in our lives and how we can insects, lichen and fungi. workforce if there are parks and trees nearby. The Tree Planting Ceremony was held at overview of each tree. make a difference in the • Treesstrengthencommunities- Trees strengthen the distinctive Trees provide employment in timber field. Noordhoek Primary School in Velddrift where The tree of the year (Ekebergia sustainability of our environment. character of a place and encourage local pride. Urban woodland • Treesprotectthepast– Trees are outlives human the foundation phases and grade 6 learners took capensis, Cape ash/Essenhout)) Air Force Base Langebaanweg can be used as an educational resource and to bring groups population, their existence gives us glimpse of the part in this event. Eight different indigenous was planted by the Principal, Mr Environmental section is thankful together for activities like walking and bird-watching. Trees are past as they grow over time and be fossilised.

44 2020 Vol27 No9SASOLDIE R SASOLDIER Vol27 No9 2020 45 SA Soldier DEVOTION EVENTS SA Soldier StandingstronginGod’sgracein the face of challenge

To count my health not my wealth andmostofalltocountonGodbut notmyself. Amen By Cpln (Rev) Mzamo Draai, Solomon Let us now open our spiritual Mahlangu Regiment. eyes. With hope, confidence and deep faith we will surely be able hen our eyes are literally or to see God’s work in action. Let figuratively closed, we surely won’t our faith in God surpass those Wbe able to see anything and while who doubt even if they see God’s we can move, we would move with a level of miracles. Those who in doubt and cautiousness and hesitation. When our eyes disbelieve say it is impossible. are closed we are automatically rendered to a Remember there is absolutely temporary state immobility or slow progress. nothing impossible with our God. If we try to move with our eyes closed, we will He is the only one who is able to inevitably bump against objects or structures unlock and open closed and around us. When we do not see what locked doors. In other words surrounds us, we get into all sorts of trouble where there is no way, He that might lead to hurt and pain. Walking in becomes the way maker, in darkness He becomes brightness. that state causes anxiety and despair due to Cpln (Rev) Mzamo Draai, Solomon the fear of not knowing or have an assurance Mahlangu Regiment. As we travel in our long of what’s ahead that we can’t see. stressful and painful life’s During the period of closed eyes, we are in a who can be against us?” When God journey, we sometimes loose temporary phase that we don’t seem to be able to is with us, we can conquer any strength and hope. As we are about make sense of what’s around. We should not challenge that comes our way to give up He comes to our rescue, despair while in the state of closed eyes. Just like irrespective of the size, shape or refills us spiritually so we regain night time, it does not last forever as surely day velocity it approaches us with. power and leads us to our break will come and light reign over darkness. Nobody told us that this journey destinations with joy. Challenges Trials and tribulations, hard times, tears falling will be easy, we must at all times will never stop coming our way but down from our eyes, painfully physical ailments, stand strong and not be timid they are surely not permanently all come and go, they are not permanent in our because (I strongly believe that) we with us. God’s guarantees us that lives. were all created, born and moulded His grace is always sufficient for us As the word of God tells us in Ecclesiastes 3 to be strong in hope and faith. With all. verse 1: “There is a time for everything, and a God’s divine presence in our lives I urge you all dear beloved, be season for every activity under the heavens.” and Him on the throne watching humble, obedient and devoted. Be Everything that happens in this world happens at over us, nothing is impossible. The rejuvenated in knowing that the time God chooses. Beloved, allow me to tell psalm of David. Psalm 23 verse 1: through your sufferings God is with you that no one knows what tomorrow has in “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack you. With every step you take, God store for you, but what is of paramount nothing”. Philippians 4 verse 19: is carrying you to your ultimate importance for all of us is to be filled with hope “And my God will supply all your victory. Isaiah 43 verses 1 to and faith that the omniscient, omnipotent and needs according to His glorious 3: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed omnipresent God is forever watching over us. He riches in Christ Jesus”. Isaiah 40 you; I have called you by name, you will never fail us. His grace is sufficient for us all. verse 11: “He tends His flock like a are mine. When you pass through Whatever challenges you are dealing with, stand shepherd; He gathers the lambs in the waters, I will be with you; and strong and seek His grace. 2 Corinthians 12 verse His arms and carries them close to through the rivers, they shall not 9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is His heart. He gently leads the overwhelm you; when you walk made perfect in weakness”. Paul assures us of nursing ewes”. Ezekiel 34 verse 15: through fire you shall not be God’s grace, His grace sustains us in all our trials, “I will tend my flock and make them burned, and the flame shall not His grace is all we need for His power is greatest lie down, declares the Lord GOD”. consume you. For I am the Lord when we are at our weakest state of mind or In times of challenges allow me your God, the Holy One of Israel, phase of hardship in our lives. Isaiah 40 verse to offer prayer of faith: your Savior”. 29: “He gives power to the weak and strength to Oh lord when I grow weary, please help Hebrews 4 verse 16, we are the powerless”. me to remember each day To count my reminded and encouraged to have When we are in need, we are invited to come blessing not my crosses... confidence to approach God’s to God’s throne of grace to receive mercy and To count my gains not my losses... Throne where we will receive His find grace to help in any circumstances or To count my laughs not my tears... mercy, grace and strength to fortify situation. Romans 8 verse 31: “If God is for us, To count my joys not my fears... us through trials and tribulations.

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