What a great way to end 2017 with some of these great stories included in this magazine. Our area Chairman’s and Committees, members and wives, what incredible effort you all make to keeping our unit and units of others less active, alive and we all remain proud as vets and Rhodesians. Well done RLI!

Thanks to Martyn, Dave and team who keep our museum and Troopie pristine. This is such an important part of the RLI and its memories.

On the home front, we have had to return to the old Flame Lily now named Australian Adventure Park and give it another go. See web and FB C:\Users\Jimmy\Desktop\RLI CHEETAH MAG\Dec 2017\www.australianadventurepark.com.au http://www.australianadventurepark.com/. We continue to run the Z Special Commando Tours on Fraser Island and now represent the P+O ships docking so some positive response. https://www.zspecialunittours.com/

What a fantastic experience to jump out of a C17 Cargo plane (est. 76 tons pay load compared 20 tons of C130) out of Waverly Air force Base and into Ramblers near Brisbane with CSM Bill Cochrane, RLI Hon Life Member and close friend to us and to the RLI. Talk about huge. Congrats to Keith Blanchard for going airborne and completing his A License and believe more. I feel honored to understand I helped inspire this.

May you and your families all have a wonderful Xmas and all the best for 2018? Be Safe!

CHAIRMANS MESSAGE

Greetings to you All

As I sat down to write this message for Cheetah, I received the sad news of the passing of our popular Commanding Officer, Lt Col Charlie Aust MLM. All our thoughts go out to Pam and her children at this sad time. He will always be remembered with respect and affection.

The Association is still surging ahead, and it is good to see the South African Branch are now over 500 Members, which is good news, the UK/Europe Branch is around 400, and the Australian Branch over 100, with a scattering of members elsewhere around the world.

Martyn Hudson, the founder of the UK/Europe Branch has gone into semi-retirement in Lincolnshire and has stood down as UK Chairman and Museum Curator. I would like to thank him most sincerely for all his outstanding efforts over the last 11 years. He formed the UK Branch, rescued The Trooper Statue, Colours and other Memorabilia from the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum (BECM) and despite ill health organised the superb Rededication of The Trooper and Laying Up of our Queens Colours in Hatfield House. He then went on to create our splendid Museum in Bedford. He really deserves a huge vote of thanks from everyone for his sterling efforts to “Preserve our Heritage”. Thank you to Martyn for a job well done. I wish his successor as UK/Europe Chairman, David Roberts, and all the best in continuing the momentum in the UK.

In respect of the Museum it is looking good and the rent is now paid up until 2020. David Roberts and his son have been digitalising all the group photos of Commandos, Sports teams, Messes etc., some of which were starting to fade anyway. They are now going to be displayed on two flat screen TV’s in the Museum. It has been decided to close the Museum for the UK Winter, as it rarely has any visitors and also it will give us chance to find a new Curator. So, it was closed on 1 September and will reopen on 1 April 2018(It will of course be opened if any Branch Function is held in Bedford, like Remembrance Day). During this time it is hoped to create a small section within the Museum, remembering Rhodesian civilians who contributed to the war, Troops canteens, Agric alert, etc. When it reopens the UK Committee are looking to having a regular opening time once a month, with a committee member in attendance, rather than the ad hoc arrangement of being open on request when Martyn lived in Bedford. This will enable people wanting to visit from UK and abroad to plan their programme. Once finalised Museum Opening times will be published on the web site, before the reopening. You can all be assured that the Museum is still in good hands and will continue to be so until the end of 2020, when we will have to make a decision on its future.

Apologies for being so ‘long winded’ about the Museum, but it is essential that all members know, it is still there, still in good condition, and is only closing for the UK Winter.

I take this opportunity to wish all members and their families a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2018.

May the Saints keep marching on Ian Buttenshaw

Chairman RLIRA

PATRONS-CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

“Yet another year has flown by. Where has time gone?

2017 has been a busy year for the association and has witnessed changes in leadership in Australia and the UK. I am ever grateful to our committees for the willing work they do to keep the flame alive. We are all in good hands and long may it continue.

Thanks to all our members for your wonderful support and in particular the magnificent generosity towards welfare demands. As you know the needs of those who find themselves in difficult positions due to ill health or lack of job opportunities has increased. The fact that we have kept abreast of demands has been a remarkable achievement.

Rest assured that no one of our ouens will be left to starve.

It has also been a year of sadness with many of our members passing to higher service. Here I pay tribute to the late great Lt Col Charlie Aust and pass our deepest sympathy to the Pam and family. This wonderful leader and soldier will be sorely missed.

I had the opportunity to visit Perth during the year and tried to get together with our newest branch. Unfortunately the heavens opened on the day and we were unable to move due to flooded roads. We did manage to meet with Dawn and Phil Losper, Dawn is doing a great job in establishing this branch and deserves our highest praise.

To all our brave men and women, have a wonderful and blessed Christmas and a fantastic and healthy 2918.

Our best wishes

The Saints keep marching on”

Ian & Alannah Bate

CEO REPORT

As I give thought to the Associations development in this 56th year since the birth of the Battalion we need also to remember the RLI Regimental Association celebrates our 50th Anniversary in 2018. Over the past ten years or so there has been remarkable growth of the Association worldwide. It is only a few years (2020) now to the celebration of that all too important 60th Regimental Birthday and it is my sincerest wish and hope that we all will make it. This edition is a bumper edition with a special emphasis on our late Sunray Charlie Aust. Thank you to all that submitted material and for all the branches submitting reports. In some instances not all the photographs could be used as they would make the final magazine difficult to manage. The magazine does take up a lot of bandwidth so to print this will fell a forest of trees. Rather save to your PC and read at leisure. A copy will always be available from the website NEWS page.

Of course as we go to press we mourn the sad loss of our ex Sunray Lt Col JW Aust and a tribute to our once leader is the theme of this edition. A thoughtful photographer focused on the faces and some of these photographs appear in the tribute. I would like to thank Jimmy Swan for stepping forward eighteen months ago to be the editor. Jimmy has now completed his ‘contract’ and takes a break. The editor’s post is now vacant and as I was unsuccessful in finding a replacement I will take on the task for the time being.

Below appears some report back on a number of the events I attended in this last reporting period. 16 July 2017 – Transvaal Scottish Memorial-Johannesburg Delville Wood Remembrance Service This is an annual event by invitation of the President of the SA Legion and we usually only see a handful of members turning up. Richard Haye carried the Association Standard on the March this year

Cenotaph-The View Parktown Johannesburg Patrons Day and Operation Uric Remembered 2 September 2017 – Garden of Remembrance-Dickie Fritz Shellhole-Johannesburg

I was privileged to attend this important event in the Africa Branch calendar and to lay the wreath on the behalf of the RLI Association. A detailed report of the parade is given later on in the newsletter by the Africa Branch. As usual a very well prepared and executed activity. Berets must go off to the Africa committee and to MC Neil Swart for an excellent parade. BSAP Annual Luncheon 15th October 2017- Indaba Hotel – Fourways I was invite to attend the BAP Association Luncheon and as always very well presented and the meal was of the highest standard. Thank you to the BSAP (Transvaal) Selous Scouts Annual Dinner 26th October 2017- Indaba Hotel – Fourways

Sylvia and I were invited to the Selous Scouts annual dinner at the Indaba Hotel-Fourways Johannesburg on the 26th October. Dave Scales gave a very interesting feedback on his visit to the USA. It was good to see so many old comrades and catch-up.

Sylvia Wiggill Bruce Harrison Basil and Joanna Rhodesian Armed Forces Memorial 12 November 2017 Dickie Fritz Shellhole Garden of Remembrance

We were invited to attend the Rhodesian Forces Memorial at the Dickie Fritz MOTH Shellhole on the 12th November. This event has grown numerically annually and the normal facilities can no longer accommodate the gathering of ex Rhodesians to this no doubt highlight of their year. The Memorial Committee under Alan Strachan’s headship opted this year to go to the open air environment at the Garden of Remembrance at Dickie Fritz. The event was very well organised and went of like clockwork.

The parade under Reg Lotter numbered 105 boots on the ground and this is significant. There was quite possible between 60 and 70 RLI members present which also was a good showing. The general number of attendees in my estimate was 280-300 Well done to Alan and his committee for a good job. Some pictures below to give scale to the event.

The RLIRA Contingent

Johannesburg Mayors Remembrance Day 12 November 2017-(14h00) The Cenotaph- Harrison St-Johannesburg I could not linger after the Rhodesian Armed Forces Memorial above and have to move off to Johannesburg rather smartish to kick off at that Service at 14h00. I was more or less alone and the only friendly I saw was Major (Ret) Dumpy Pearce representing the Flame Lily Organisation. None the less I was very honoured to lay the wreath on behalf of the RLI RA

We bid farewell to the following RLI members who have marched off the parade ground for the last time

May – November 2017

Lt. Col Charlie Aust MLM (Retd) Noel van Niekerk Graham Peak (SAS)-RLIRA Neil Moran Brigadier Vic Walker (Retd) Richard Knight Leonard Neville Woodhouse A.L. (Butch) Pelser Ian Burton Derek Longhurst Christopher Bernhard

Anthony Frank Howard

______

"Requiem for a Soldier"

You never lived to see What you gave to me One shining dream of hope and love Life and liberty With a host of brave unknown soldiers For your company, you will live forever Here in our memory In fields of sacrifice Heroes paid the price Young men who died for old men's wars Gone to paradise We are all one great band of brothers And one day you'll see we can live together When all the world is free I wish you'd lived to see All you gave to me Your shining dream of hope and love, Life and liberty

We are all one great band of brothers And one day you'll see - we can live together When all the world is free

(You can watch a YouTube Video of this moving song at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Opg7LwUdPs) New Boots Signing Up

Gordon Morris Jeremy Smeiman

Andy Sloan Rick Dixon

Clive Cooke Rex Harding

Gerry Cilliers Carl Underhill

Kevin Raath Russell Penton

Richard Gower Stewart Alexander Mackie

Keith Waton Lewis Jones

Michael Boyd-Monk Louis Coffey

Owen Walton James Doyle

John Van Niekerk Neil Swart

William Boyle Heath Fourie

Tjaart Van Der Walt Hayley Fourie

A very warm welcome to our new members and hope we see you at the various functions being held in the regions.

Faithfully

CEO-RLIRA

TRIBUTE TO Lt Col JCW (Charlie) Aust MLM

Dickie Fritz Shell Hole –Johannesburg- South Africa-1 December 2017 Ian Bate

“Charlie Aust was born in Enkeldoorn, Rhodesia in 1942 from Pioneer stock, his Grandfather fought in the Matabele War and his Great Uncle died with Alan Wilson in the famous last stand at the Shangani River. He was educated at Rhodes Estate Preparatory School and Plumtree, before doing his National Service at the age of 17. His National Service ignited an interest in the Military and he enlisted in the Central Africa Federal Army as an Officer Cadet in 1962 and underwent a 15 month Officer Cadet Course. He passed out with the Sword of Honour as top cadet, as well as the Sam Browne for the best academic cadet.

This followed a 3 year posting to 1RAR, followed by a 3 year posting to the School of Infantry as a National Service Officer Cadet Instructor. After this he was posted to HQ 2 Brigade as GSO3 (Operations), and then came the posting that would change the direction of his military career. He was posted as a Captain as 2IC 2 Commando 1RLI in 1972 and then on promotion to Major in early 1973 assumed command of 2 Commando.

In late 1973/early 1974, RLI started to adopt the Fire Force concept, and Charlie Aust was there in its infancy and helped to develop and hone the Fire Force Tactics. He proved a most outstanding Fire Force Commander; he was possessed of great tactical skill and a fine eye for detail. Of his skill in this capacity, Dennis Croukamp in his book “Only my friends call me Crouks” wrote:

“Not only did he have the uncanny ability to anticipate the terrorists’ every move, but he was able to re- direct ground forces to cut the terrorists off. He could encourage the ground forces to go the extra distance, pushing themselves to their limit and beyond. Most Selous Scouts pseudo commanders loved having Major Aust in the K Car directing the action and they considered him the best among many successful Fireforce commanders’ “.

For his work in this capacity he was made a Member of the Legion of Merit (Combatant).

It was during his period as OC 2 Commando, that he became absorbed by the unique spirit and comradeship of the Unit, and he changed his parent Regiment from RAR to RLI. In late 1975, he was posted as a Grade 2 Staff Officer to the Joint Planning Staff in Milton Buildings (the forerunner to HQ Combined Operations). In 1977 he returned to RLI as Battalion Second-in-Command, and then in 1978 he was promoted Lieutenant Colonel and posted as Commandant School of Infantry, Gwelo. He returned to the RLI as Commanding Officer in December 1979, and had the sad task following the Independence Elections of organising the disbandment of the RLI at the end of October 1980.

Following the disbandment, he left the Army and moved with his family to South Africa, before returning to Zimbabwe in 1991 and taking over his family farm in Essexvale. He was expelled from his farm in 2001 during Mugabe’s infamous “Land Grab”. As a result he moved to England with his family. Throughout his military career, he proved to have a superb tactical brain, this came to the fore as the Fireforce concept developed and he was one of the leading lights in its development into a most successful anti terrorist tactic. He was well respected by his Troopies and had superb man management and RLI was very lucky to have such a competent officer in its ranks. He was extremely erudite and gave some fine speeches during his time as CO and Patron of the RLIRA.

In summary Charlie Aust was a great all round officer well suited to the unique camaraderie that existed within the RLI. The Unit was lucky to have him as the Commanding Officer, to guide the Battalion through the difficult months leading up to its disbandment.

He is survived by his wife Pam, two daughters and a son, and four grand children.”

“Gone, but never forgotten”

______

“Dear Wonderful Friends of the RLI,

On behalf of my mum, Pam, my brother, Patrick, my sister, Cherry, and I, I would like to say how touched and deeply grateful we are as a family for all the effort you have made to ensure Dad was remembered, celebrated and ultimately given a superb and emotionally fitting send off. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of collective sadness and rich memories of Dad that have flooded into our family over this time; the wonderful memorial services in South Africa all planned at the same time as the one here in Denton, Lincolnshire, the support and loyalty shown by the friends Dad had in the RLI and the deep ties that link this band of brothers. Words cannot convey how immensely comforting your support and superb organisational skills were to our family during this sensitive and difficult time. The RLI had a special place in dad’s heart... we, as his children, are really only beginning to understand just how extraordinary our Dad was as the last Commanding Officer of a fine battalion of men. We take great comfort knowing our dad will always be remembered ... at the going down of the sun and in the morning. God bless each and every one of you and your families this Christmas season... wherever you are in the world ... and may you continue the good work of keeping the memories and traditions of the RLI alive.

Kind regards Caroline Milligan (Charlie’s oldest daughter) “

FACES of AFRICA 1 December 2017 – Dickie Fritz Shellhole-South Africa “We shall remember him”

JOHN AUST EULOGY DENTON-UNITED KINGDOM- 1 DECEMBER 2017

Doug Lambert

It is my privilege and an honor to reflect on the military career of Lt Col John Charles Aust.

My great friend and comrade, an amazing man with huge intellect and humbleness… a very principled man, supported always by his loyal and devoted wife Pam

Known to many of you as Charlie, to me he has always been John and so bear with me, I am going to refer to him as John

There are many people that we know in our lives who are talented and who achieved a lot. There are only a few who have true greatness, and John was one of those with many qualities that set him apart.

John and I were commissioned into the Rhodesian Army together. We grew through many stages of our careers along side of each other.

I remember as we commenced our careers on an officer cadet course. 28 cadets started the course but only 7 passed. Many cadets were removed from the course at regular intervals and John’s batman, with worry all over his face, would ask me “what about Johnny Aust” inquiring whether John was still part of the chosen few

Let me start with a brief overview of John’s military career.

 John was awarded the sword of honour when he was commissioned into the Rhodesian Army in 1962.  His first posting was as a subaltern in the RAR  He then ran National Service office cadet courses at the School of infantry in Gwelo.  This was followed by a GSO3 Operations staff role in HQ 2 Brigade in Salisbury,  In 1972 as a major, John assumed command of 2 Commando 1RLI. During this period John changed his parent regiment from 1RAR to 1RLI.  He then had appointments at JPS the forerunner for Combined Operations for Rhodesia,  John then returned to RLI as Battalion 2IC,  Following this John was appointed as Commandant School of Infantry  Finally John took over as the CO of 1RLI in 1979. John retained this position until the unit was disbanded in 1980 An illustrious career by any standards. Had his military career not been cut short, there is no doubt he would have become the Rhodesian Army Commander

Throughout his military career, John excelled. He gained the respect and devotion of all who served alongside of him

During his command of 2 Commando IRLI he established himself as an outstanding Fire-force Commander and was decorated for his work on operations. He was made a Member of the Legion of Merit (Combatant)

John had an uncanny ability to anticipate the enemy’s every move, with exceptionally successful outcomes from many encounters.

He had a way of engaging ground forces to go the extra mile and push themselves to their limits.

When John took over as the CO of RLI in 1979 he sent a message to all soldiers.

John expressed his pride as be assumed command of the battalion. Part of John’s message and I share this with you because it epitomizes him. The message related to expected behavior. John said

1. If you are not proud of your unit you shouldn’t be here. Wear your uniform with pride. Better still, behave with pride. Don’t make a spectacle of yourself in Uniform. I will be totally unhappy with any behaviour which brings discredit to the unit. It comes under the heading of ill-discipline 2. I want you to adopt a professional attitude. Don’t tell war stories (particularly after a few grogs) . Keep your mouth shut unless you are asked to open it in the interest of your job. Be quiet but good at your job. People will trust you if you do this 3. Look after each other. We must stick together as a unit-at all times How will you recognize me?

 I am 6 feet tall  Large protruding ears  Dark brown hair  Seedy moustache  Glasses and intensely ugly  Two false teeth Lets all get on with the job in the best of RLI traditions. The best battalion in the world. I believe it is, but let’s prove it to the world

John was a man who demanded and expected the most of each person. In return, he had the well-being of each member at his very core

Later towards the end of the IRLI era, John reflected as follows

As we enter the final days, defeated by the enigma of politics, the RLI and all ranks showed consistent courage at an extremely sensitive time.

They had won on the battlefield yet had lost all to an insensitive, ill-informed country. Alas, the behavior of the current ruling party holds no surprise for me, as I knew what would follow.

The regimental conduct and behavior of the RLI in those difficult times once again reflected an amazing unit.

Our beloved green and silver marched into history with pride, with outstanding discipline and with true military conduct

The Saints go marching on and will continue to do so throughout unfolding history We have so much to remember about John. He was an icon and a role model. A professional soldier, a great and humble human being and a very private man

We have received so many messages from friends around the world who are not able to be with us today but whose thoughts are with Pam and her dear family

Memorial services are being held simultaneously at various centers in South Africa. This is an affirmation of the love and respect for John across the globe

I now share with you a synopsis of messages that I have received

Some of the descriptions sent by Pat Armstrong

The scruffy, unassuming, self – effacing officer who often wore no rank while roaming the RLI operational area,

Thick clouded specs, bareheaded, tousled hair, missing tooth- all enveloped in a haze of cigarette smoke, old T shirt half stuffed into rumpled PT shots, shabby Vellies, no socks, fag in hand.

That was the remarkable, gifted, forthright and adored Charlie Aust.

One of the finest commando and then battalion commanders of the RLI. Razor sharp

You never heard any body say a bad word about him nor heard him speak about himself.

Humble and devoid of any arrogance.

Natural leader, revered by all who served with or under him.

Completely devoted to his beloved soldiers.

A true servant leader, albeit tough and demanding.

Brilliant tactician and renowned fire force commander.

He enjoyed a good party and had a good turn of voice.

The only guy who could sing “Sloop John B” his signature song, after a few pints, better than the Beach Boys.. Or so he thought

Here is to Charlie, One of the finest

Roddy Smith said

Outstanding soldier, complete gentleman, man of honour and the ultimate example of a leader of men by sheer inspiration and charisma

Tim Bax said

No frills but a caring man. He was intolerant of anything but the best, but always returned of his best . He led by example and he set the example and there was ne’er a time when he wasn’t seen leading from the front.

He was Lt Col Charlie Aust former Commanding Officer of the RLI and today we mourn the untimely news that he has bidden us a final farewell. Bayete Nkosi. We shall remember always your gregarious laugh and salute the impact you shall continue having upon our lives

From our close friend Tom Douglas who was part of the same officer cadet course as John and myself  The first thing I remember about John, on cadet course, was his deep laugh and him sliding under the table on one occasion as he was laughing so much  Secondly his talent; intellectual, literary, artistic and military  Thirdly his modesty and humility, In spite of his great talent he could mix at any level but he thrived on communication with the soldier and would squat, break twigs and speak to them  His love of the nature and the outdoors. I remember going around Denton farm with him He knew where every kudu was and when we got back to the homestead a babbler would sit on your head as you watched warthog in the garden

From Rick Van Malsen, It always amazed me how even those hardened individuals always gave of their best when it came to Boss Charlie. He was always intensely loyal to his men. I will always be grateful for the faith he placed in me. I was one of the thousands of men who like me had their lives touched by him

Fox Watts will never forget how John has so impacted his life, commissioning him into the Army and then guiding and inspiring Fox and helping him to achieve his own heights

Neil Storey has given an enormous amount of unconditional support and devotion to John, especially over the period after John retired from the Army.

Neil says, Its difficult to put into words a description of a man who conducted himself with such enormous dignity , whose integrity was beyond question and whose chuckle leading to a full blown guffaw was a pleasure. He was truly an officer and a gentleman

Trevor Des Fountain says

I saw Charlie in many different roles at the School of Infantry and soon discovered that although he is charismatic, he had no ego. What you saw was what you got, there were no agendas or complications with Charlie Aust. He was a soldiers soldier and was at ease in any company at any level

Yet he dominated an environment through his personality, knowledge, military acumen and common sense

Charlie had a gifted sense of humor and an ability to laugh at himself in any circumstance

I, Doug Lambert have lost my closest friend, an outstanding man with true greatness in him.

We have heard so many words about our John.

I think of the many things we did together and even in recent years when we were living in different places, we often spoke and laughed together about happenings from the past

For me what stands out especially is John’s integrity, his transparency and authenticity and showing vulnerability that led to everyone having complete trust in him.

Like all exceptional leaders, he had a sense of near and far in him, of genuinely caring about people but being tough when he needed to be and this created healthy challenge and stretch that brought the best out of others.

In any situation John was always dignified and gracious and kind in the way he engaged others

A great loss for the Lambert family. We have so many wonderful memories. The Aust’s have been such an important part of our lives and will always be an important part of our lives. We have been through thick and thin together for over 50 years

Our love and sympathy to our dearest Pam and her beloved family Pam you have been an absolute tower of strength and have always been there for John and your family. We love you up to bits and will always be there for you Pam

On many occasions while talking to John in the recent past I would say “John Charles Aust, I am standing to attention and clicking my heels together and saluting you”

We now all salute you John Charles. Hamba Gashle. You will never be forgotten. Your legacy is boundless

God bless you and rest in peace

A Tribute to Charlie’s Memory

Cliff ‘Doc’ Webster

LT. HOLLINGSWORTH

Few people know of the battles that occurred in German South West Africa during the First World War. Probably even fewer know that 1st Battalion Rhodesia Regiment fought there, and the 2nd Battalion Rhodesia Regiment fought in German East Africa. The 1st Battalion participated at the battle at Trekkoppies and Lt. Hollingsworth died there on 26th April 1915 leading the battalion Maxim machine gun detachment. Pam Aust mentioned by phone a few years ago that Lt. Hollingsworth was a great uncle of Col. Charlie Aust

At the outbreak of World War One on request of the British Government the Union of South Africa invaded German South West Africa with over 70000 men on four fronts. The German schutztruppe (Colonial Troops) only numbered just over 7000 well equipped men, particularly with artillery. The biggest of the four Union forces landed at Walvis Bay, then a Cape Province enclave, and advanced on and occupied Swakopmund 33 kilometers to the north. As the schutztruppe withdrew inland towards their capital, Windhoek, and further north, they destroyed their narrow gauge railway from Swakopmund to Windhoek as they went and poisoned the wells. General Louis Botha advanced up the Swakop River with his cavalry, consisting mainly of Boer Commandos, and tasked the Union 3rd Brigade, commanded by Col. Skinner, to act as protection for the parties rebuilding the railway which was vital for logistical purposes. The 3rd Brigade consisted of 2nd Transvaal Scottish Bn, 2nd Kimberley Regiment and 3 squadrons of 1st Imperial Light Horse. They only had one artillery piece as Gen. Botha had withdrawn the artillery to Swakopmund as he thought the Germans would not attack the 3rd Brigade. Interestingly the brigade had a squadron of Rolls Royce light armoured cars attached. They were each equipped with a Vickers and were used effectively in the battle much to the surprise of the Germans. This was the first time armoured cars were used in Africa, and possibly in the world at that time.

The Rhodesia Regiment was being kept in reserve at Arandis Railway Siding 22 kilometers back down the line towards Swakopmund. Col. Skinner himself led a squadron of ILH to scout inland during the night of 25th April towards Ebony siding where a schutztruppe force of 700 rifles and two mountain-gun batteries were camped. Col. Skinner's advance scouts discovered that the Germans were in fact advancing to attack Trekkoppies at dawn! Surprisingly the Germans have no advance scouts out so they did not see the large Union scouting force. Col. Skinner hastily withdrew to Trekkoppies to prepare for the coming attack and called forward the Rhodesia Regiment from Arandis. There was a train standing in Arandis at the time and the regiment was on its way to Trekkoppies immediately, arriving at dawn. They had barely got into hastily dug trenches when the German artillery opened up with a heavy barrage and the schutztruppe attacked. The armoured cars were central to blunting the German attack, together with the Maxims.

Unfortunately Lt. Hollingsworth was killed in the battle. He lies buried in the Trekkoppies Military Cemetery with 8 Springbok soldiers and 11 schutztruppe. Every year, on the nearest Sunday to 26th April, the MOTHS hold a memorial parade at the cemetery. We are always joined by schutztruppe representatives, including from Berlin. ______

RLIRA –AFRICA BRANCH REPORT

Brian Lewis -Chairman - Africa

General Feedback

The year of 2017, despite plans to slow down, has been anything but slow in Africa. This has been a good thing for the Africa Branch, and the committee has been kept on their toes planning and managing numerous events and functions. More detailed reports of the various functions will be covered under the Regional Reports later.

It has been one of the most successful years we have had in terms of the generous donations received and the membership fees paid.

Welfare Donations received - R235K

Subs Payments received -R65K

Membership Subscriptions

The committee acknowledges with grateful appreciation the response we received from our appeal earlier in the year for membership fees to be paid. Many of you heeded our Call, and did “The Right Thing” –Thank You. We in fact achieved a significant increase in the payment of membership fees, the highest on record to date.

There are many however who have yet to take up our Appeal, despite numerous promises to do so, payment has not been forthcoming. Some of these are people who regularly attend RLI RA functions and the benefits that ensue yet are not prepared to assist with fees. Guys We Need You – Please Pay your membership subs. Those who did make full payment of their membership subs can now regard themselves as “Members of Good Standing” within the RLI Association and are eligible for the benefits that entails.

Donations I and my committee continue to be humbled and constantly in awe of the generosity from our members, friends and supporters. Many of the donors to our Welfare Fund have chosen to remain anonymous and to them we say a VERY BIG Thank You.

The committee wishes to acknowledge with grateful appreciation the ongoing support and generosity of all those who faithfully attend our functions and events, and those who give so generously toward the Welfare Fund. Without this support and generosity we would not be able to provide financial assistance to the growing number of RLI men and their dependants.

For the financial Year to date The RLI RA Africa has managed to help some 14 members who have needed assistance of some sort, this includes the widow of one of our “Old” Soldiers.

Welfare payments made -R195K

As the years pass and our members get older we receive an increasing number of calls for a “helping hand”. To date we have not had to turn a genuine request away, though there have been people who have requested money on spurious grounds. These requests are obviously declined. With the continued support from our members and supporters we are confident that this state of affairs will continue.

Mark Taunton our “Gold Finger” has been kept on his toes, and has done a sterling job ensuring that we remain financially sound, and produce a “clean audit”.

It is my pleasure to report that we are in a healthy financial situation, the best on record to date, and this is solely due to the generosity of our members and supporters. As at 31 October 2017 our total cash at bank position was R692K.

I would like to Thank–You one and all for the ongoing generosity and support.

Regional Representatives Reports

This year I have requested each of the SA Regional RLI RA Committee Representatives to submit their respective reports and to include photographs where available. Each will cover the main events, parades and functions held over the last ten 10 months, all of which have been outstanding and well supported by our members, friends and supporters.

The Future of the RLIRA

In September the Africa Branch initiated and hosted an open meeting at Dickie Fritz MOTH Shellhole for members and supporters to discuss this issue. The meeting was well supported with some thirty five members participating. Our CEO Bill Wiggill and Patron Ian Bate were present. Bill read a message on behalf of the Chairman Ian Buttenshaw, outlining his views on the future of the RLI Association worldwide. It was agreed that the Africa Branch would put together a paper on its views for submission to, and discussion by ExCo by end March 2018.

The following points were agreed by the Africa Branch:

The RLI RA continues to function and exist in its current format until 2021. At this time ExCo will announce definitive plans on the future of our Association.

The Legacy of the RLI RA must be preserved if possible for “All Time”. The questions were how will this be achieved?

A number of suggestions were raised including: The Digitalisation of all records, historical documents and photographs: This was considered to be a strong option to ensure the preservation of our documented history. A custodian of the digital data will need to be decided. .

Legacy Membership: Each Region must actively encourage the Sons and Daughters of current members to join the Association. Legacy members must be afforded the opportunity to serve on the Committee to gain the required attributes to manage an effective committee.

Statues, Flags, Colours, Memorabilia and Museums: Although these items are currently important and revered they will not stand the test of time and neither will we as custodians.

Conclusion: The management and sustainability of the RLI RA worldwide will become increasingly difficult, if not impossible as our numbers and support declines due to natural attrition. Please note that the MOTHs are experiencing a decline in numbers with some Shell Holes in SA considering amalgamation as opposed to closure. However consider this, the “Poppy” and “Remembrance Sunday” in November, remember the fallen of the two world Wars and other conflicts. This Legacy has endured for 100 years. The RLI “wrote” their Legacy between the years of 1961 to 1980 and this cannot be changed. It is therefore up to us to ensure that that Legacy endures in the minds of others. Therefore the RLI RA needs to find “Our Poppy” whatever that may be.

My personal suggestion is for us to consider having an Association silver medal struck. This medal would to be available to every man or woman who served in the RLI. The medal could consist of The Troopie surrounded in a wreath of Flame Lilly’s on the front side with Rhodesian Light Infantry inscribed across the top, and 1961-1980 inscribed at the bottom. The reverse side would reflect the RLI badge with the words The Saints along the top and The Incredibles along the bottom. The backing ribbon would reflect the colours of our stable belt.

Our Remembrance Day is 1St February and in Africa this is celebrated by a Memorial Service held on the closest Saturday to that date. This will endure for as long as we “Keep the Flame Alive”.

Another idea is a definitive book on the RLI giving the complete history from 1961 to 1980. Although there have been a number of books written on the RLI there is no single conclusive book that tracks the Battalion history from beginning to end.

Acknowledgements

The committee wish to thank our CEO Bill Wiggill for the sterling work he does managing and maintaining the Associations communications and records, including the RLI webpage. Despite Bill not displaying any outward signs of slowing down, we do feel that the time has come for some succession planning, and for someone to step up and assist him with a view to taking on some of his work load. Any takers?

Colonel Charlie Aust MLM

As I write, news has just broken of the passing of our last Commanding Officer Lt Colonel Charlie Aust MLM. A very sad time for us all, as we prepare to bid farewell to a man who is much respected and dearly loved by all in the Battalion.

On behalf of the Africa Branch Committee and Members, we extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Pam and the Aust family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Rest in Peace –Sir.

On behalf of the Africa Committee and our members we wish you all a Safe Happy and Blessed Christmas. May 2018 is all that you wish it to be for you and your family.

Gauteng Region

Neil Swart

PATRONS DAY PARADE & SERVICE - IN MEMORY OF OPERATION URIC & PUMA 164

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – 2nd SEPTEMBER 2017 On Saturday 2nd September 2017 over 200 people converged on Dickie Fritz MOTH Shell hole in Johannesburg, site of the replica RLI “Trooper” statue which is positioned next to a South African Puma helicopter. The reason for this gathering was to pay our respects to all who fought side by side in Rhodesia, those who lost their lives in the war and in particular to pay tribute to and show our respect for those members killed on the ill- fated Puma 164 at the battle for Mapai during Operation Uric some 38 years ago.

Patron’s day, the vision of Lt. Col. Ian Bate was launched by the RLI Regimental Association (Africa Branch) in 2016 in combination with the commemoration of Operation Uric which took place during the first week of September 1979. This Memorial Day was combined with a social program afterwards to allow for the many friendships to be rekindled, and offer an opportunity for some inter unit banter to take place whilst consuming a few cold ones. As with 2016’s success, this year’s turn out both on Parade and at the social function far exceeded that of last year. A brilliant sunshiny day greeted us providing the backdrop to an emotional day on parade.

Units represented on Parade were Engineers, BSAP, Rhodesian Air force, South African Air force, SAS, Selous Scouts, Internal Affairs, RLI, RAR and John Redfern laid a wreath on behalf of the Rhodesian Army. I would like to thank the Engineers and Rhodesian Airforce for the enthusiasm shown in motivating their many members to participate in all the events. Once again a kombie load of Engineers came all the way from Bulawayo and KZN to pay their respects to their fallen Brothers. What fantastic Rhodesian spirit! Our guest speakers included Lt. Col. Ian Bate MLM, Maj. Grahame Wilson GCV, SCR, BCR and Capt. Neill Jackson with Alf Herbst conducting the Prayer, Blessing and Benediction. Grahame shared a gripping account of his experiences during that week of the fight for Mapai with the audience so engaged in the events as they unfolded. Jimmy Gallagher from 1 CDO was chosen to unveil the cross, a replica of the cross situated at the Puma 164 crash site at Mapai. After the unveiling Neill Jackson followed up with the repeat of the dedication made by Bob Manser when the original cross was erected at the actual crash site in 2009, and the Roll of Honor of those lives taken on Operation Uric was read out. Tears flowed unrestricted this time as tough soldiers became comfortable with showing their emotions while honoring fallen comrades in arms.

Wreath and cross laying by the units, parade members and next of kin brought on another wave of almost uncontrolled emotions with Piper Alf Whiston delivering a moving rendition of “Going Home”

Alf Herbst pulled us back into control with his final comforting words of the Benediction and encouraged all to take advantage of “Reflection time” at the memorial site consisting of the “Trooper” statue and Puma now bedecked with flags, wreaths, crosses and a large poster of the Puma 164 Roll of honor. Parade commander, Rudi Van Aarde who took control of the parade squad throughout with precision, then marched the squad off the square.

By 12h00, we had over 220 people in the Ridgeback beer garden sipping on bitterly cold drinks, listening to great music and tucking into some excellent Portuguese cuisine reflecting the “Back to Moz” theme. What a brilliant day of emotions and friendships rekindled.

Gauteng Regional Xmas Party in Pictures

Eastern Cape Mark Taunton

We continue to have our prayer meetings each month at the South Ender Pub and usually have full attendance with the exception of Mark Snelgar who is now flying in Canada.

This year we have had Rob Tapson join us and Keith Leighton has attended a few meetings but travels a lot. We have also uncovered Log Enslin who resides in Port Alfred but still have to rope him in. 1. Bob Howard and I came up to the Regimental Day parade in Johannesburg in February and Bob did and amazing job as Parade RSM. 2. Parachute Veterans Organization Raid

Our First Prayer meeting was raided by our SA PVO mates and a few SA Marines who did us proud and a great evening was had with some great ouens. They loved the evening and the way we ran things and have introduced the Roll of Honor reading at their monthly meetings. 3. Visit by Don Price

We were very privileged to have Don Price pay us a visit and we arranged an impromptu Prayer Meeting at the South Ender that was well attended. Don really enjoyed the evening and plans to pay us more visits in the future. 4. Kowie River Cruise with the BSAP

We had a great day with the BSAP on the Kowie River and then were hosted by the Battleaxe Shellhole in Port Alfred for a braai. It was a great day with great humor and camaraderie. Unfortunately Jimmy and Julia Jameson cancelled at the last minute which was a huge disappointment.

56th Anniversary Parachute Battalion

We were invited to the 56th Anniversary of the formation of 1 Parachute Battalion. It seems The RLI is two months older than they are. We had a great day with the Batts.

5. Visit by Dave Pickering

Dave Pickering came to town so we had an impromptu payer meeting with him at the South Ender. We had a surprise visit from Charmaine Hugo who does all our embroidery for us and she had commissioned a RLI painting to be done and presented to us. It was a very touching gesture and greatly appreciated. The picture will be hung up in the South Ender Pub.

Dave getting Bob back for all the The Guy in the blue shirt looking over my and Bob Howard’s extra guard duties Bob gave him shoulder is Craig Cooper. Capt. Plank Cooper’s son. back in the day.

Rhodesian Combined Forces Day

On the 29th October we had the Rhodesian Combined Forces day. This was the third we have done and by far the best in terms of atmosphere and enjoyment. The monies raised went to the Zim Pensioners Support Fund. We had a Rhodesian Moth learn some of the old Rhodie songs and that went down really well. We also had a two piece band called the Mad Hatters entertain us and Jeanine’s father was ex RLI and she grew up at the RLI Barracks

John (Slim) Callahan laying Jeanine who grew up at The social afterwards the RLI wreath. Cranborne barracks.

The Last Post

Memorial Service for Lt Colonel Charlie Aust MLM

On Friday we arranged a memorial service at Sunset Shellhole, Winston Churchill Cottages in PE. Pete Gombard led the valediction and Committal. We had the privilege of having Don Price come through from Port Alfred to deliver his personal eulogy and then had Bob Howard read out the eulogy prepared by Lt Col Doug Lambert that was also presented in the UK at the same time. I read out the speech that Lt Col Charlie Aust made at the RLI final Parade. Torty King of the SAS spoke on the close working relationship and deep respect between the SAS and RLI and on the magnificent team that Charlie Aust and Graham Wilson of the SAS had been. Finally Ian (Shonk) Shaw related his childhood memories of Charlie who had been a good mate.

The year has been a busy one but very enjoyable. The spirit and bond here in the Eastern Cape is great and we are a band of brothers.

KwaZulu Natal Skippy Michell

In the last edition of E Cheetah I mentioned “I suspect that the greater KZN district is home to a large number of ouens from that formidable Battalion of ours, the challenge remains to get them to break cover and congregate as the Gauteng ouens do at the Dickie Fritz at their monthly meetings”. This unfortunately has not been the case and numbers have dwindled to such an extent that our monthly get together at the Natal Mounted Rifles on the first Saturday of every month has become a non-event. I am currently trying to formulate a plan to re-ignite the KZN membership to support our/your Association.

FUNCTIONS.

a) Having opened with that dismal news the annual GFL (Get Fired Lunch) was held at Stokers Arms in Kloof this last weekend (25th Nov), and was attended by 40 ex Rhodies from various units. Even Comedian Barry Hilton joined us!

b) Again this year the SAS RA extended a formal invite to their brethren in the RLI to represent our Regiment at their annual Remembrance parade at the Flame Lily Grounds where their plinth proudly stood, now replaced with an equally auspicious monument to their fallen. The RLI was represented by myself standing sentry at their Memorial during the parade, and RSM Robin Tarr laying our wreath, as usual.

c) Armistice Day this year fell on Sunday 12th November and Durban, like everywhere else, held a parade at the Cenotaph at Durban City Hall. This year was marred slightly by the fact that our local scavengers desecrated the Memorial a week prior by stealing 18 or so brass Roll of Honour plaques (a few tonnes of metal) and selling it to an unscrupulous scrap dealer who was sending it to China. Fortunately the miscreants were apprehended in a massive joint op between Metro, SAPS and Military Vets Organisation and the plaques recovered (a number already cut up though). The SA Legion did a great job of covering up the scarred memorial with poppies and the RLI was remembered with a wreath being laid by yours truly. The attending General (the Surgeon General) complimented Durban on holding the “most professional” parade in the country.

d) It is with sadness we report the passing of Lt Col C Aust MLM and KZN hosted a memorial service for Charlie on 1st December at St Agnes Anglican Church, Kloof. The memorial service was poorly attended with only about 20/25 attending – considering how extensively this was communicated through all social media platforms and direct e mail invites it is concerning to say the least that such apathy and quite honestly, such disrespect, exists in our ranks. A big thank you to all those that made the effort to bid final farewell to a much respected Commanding Officer.

CAPETOWN

Picture of the RLI (1CDO) vs. SAS (Special Air Stewards) golf test match Won by 1 CDO! NOTE – RLI walked and SAS took a cart. Was a wonderful day – We have all been friends for nearly 40 years.

Many thanks to the Cape Field Artillery's RSM Bennie Havenga, S-Sgt Pipe-Major Andrew Imrie, Drum-Major Bill White, Sgt. Deidre Basson and The Barman Par-excellence Bombardier Regan/Reagan . . . for yet again graciously hosting the Rhodesian Artillery, the two RLI 2 Commando 10 Troopers (Ingram & Gabriel), and the one C Company Parachute Regiment's Mark Bouillon last Saturday 10th June.

54TH ANNIVERSARY

Mark Bouillon, Nigel Bowerman, Patrick Smeda, Derek Percy, Barend "Bennie" Havenga, Cavin Bowerman, Maurice "Angel" Gabriel, Cole Liebenberg, Steve Ingram, Rick Whitehead, Richard "Rick/Coxie" Cox, Tim Rowett, Steve Cary, Andrew Imrie, Rob Ervine & William "Bill" Stephen White.

WELFARE FUND RAISER-Correspondence

“The RLI RA Cape Fund Raiser for the 8th July has required a lot of time and effort to organise, as you know The RLI Ouens on the ground in Cape Town are minimal compared you Ouens up North, but the projected attendee numbers (still to be finally determined by the end of this week) is looking considerably better than estimated. We were looking at +-70, but it could be closer to 90. Accommodating that number in Timour Hall IPA (International Police Association) venue presents quite a challenge logistically, but a good challenge for The RLI.

In my opinion the response from the various Rhodesian units (especially The BSAP) and other South African units rallying to the cause of the RLI has been magnificent. The biggest challenge this week is to track and chase and secure payment from the very diverse groups of people/associations’ that have been invited. Our cut-off date was this Wednesday 28th June, so I and we’ll be “cracking the whip, nicely”.

Steve Ingram

“Good morning Bill (please pass this on to Brian Lewis)

Maurice Gabriel and Cheryl, along with his local team consisting primarily of Steve Ingram, Gerry Arrow (and Harriet), Andy Johnson and Steve Cary put in a huge amount of time in planning and running the 8 July fundraising event and deserve high praise for their initiative and dedication. The event, which was well attended by members and spouses of the BSA Police, SScouts, SAS, MOTHs and some SA military Services, was a resounding success and further put the RLI Association ‘up-front’. The final attendance figure was 92.

A number of substantial financial donations were made, especially from those who could not attend, and these were from – Dick Lockley (R2,000), Yolanda MacIntyre (R700), Ian Pringle (R2,000), Alan Hunter (R1,000), Danny Greuenthal (R2,000), Maurice Habib (R500) and R5,000 from me (on behalf of the Rhodesian Security Forces). The profit was R20, 556.80 and that amount is being transferred to the RLIRA fund (to Mark Taunton).

I frequently read that welfare funds are much needed and I am left wondering why other ‘provincial RLI teams’ are not encouraged – indeed prevailed upon - to run similar fundraising events; it cannot be that only one provincial team and the odd Commando teams are contributing to the essential cause. One has to work hard and with imagination to garner funds and management pressure is always required. I’ve been running the M’dala Trust for twelve years now and can speak with some experience! These provincial fundraisers could be a welcome alternative for those members who cannot afford to pay their subs? “

My best wishes. LJ “ (Leon Jacobs- M’dala Trust) ______

“Good afternoon All I would like you to join me in congratulating Maurice Gabriel and the team in Capetown for a very successful Fund Raising event held on the 5th August.

Mark has confirmed that an amount of R20k was received and banked into the Associations account.

Maurice and his team put in some hard hours organising and preparing for this event, and it is wonderful to see the fruits of their labour have borne fruit.

From all accounts it was a well managed event that attracted a lot of support, and this bodes well for the future.

I would also like to Thank Maurice for his personal efforts in caring for Louis Van Zyl.

Maurice in my opinion has gone beyond the call of duty in ensuring the wellbeing of Louis , and for this I wish to Thank him for his personal and ongoing dedication in the care he gives Louis . “

Well Done guys -Thank You. Kind regards Cheers Brian Lewis Africa Chairman ______

UK/EUROPE BRANCH David Roberts - Chairman UK and Europe

As we wind down to the end of a very sad year with the passing of the last commanding officer of our beloved regiment, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Charlie Aust and many other members and friends who have succumbed to various illnesses. May we take this time to reflect on all those who have passed to the 2nd Battalion the Rhodesian Light Infantry.

The UK/Europe branch has seen a year of hard and tireless dedication by various members in keeping the heritage of the unit alive with work in ensuring our “Troopie Statue” is looked after and presentable for visitors who visit its current home at Hatfield House and spending long hours at the Museum at Bedford cleaning and maintaining the displays. Of special note to our curator and past chairman Martyn Hudson and his good lady Mary, who travel long distances transporting the equipment which they store at their home and all members that give up their precious spare time.

Two functions of note this year were the Remembrance Sunday at the Bedford war memorial where we had approximately twenty five RLI / RAR /Rhaf / Intaf and other units giving their respects to all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for Rhodesia.

We were honored to be invited to the barracks of 2 Para Regiment at Colchester, Essex on a very cold and windy day to see the DC3 (Dak) that is being lovingly restored where we had a great afternoon touring the barracks and having a bit of nostalgic fun on the Para school swings before we were treated to a very tasty and much needed curry supper and drinks in the sergeants mess. A big thank you to Sergeant Jim Kilbride for this unforgettable day.

Myself and my wife Judy together with the Reverend Clive Larrett and his good wife Brenda represented the RLIRA at the Royal Air force Association 80th anniversary evening at the RAFA Club, Bedford on the 18th November 2017.

Christmas is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate and I would like to take this time to wish all members and friends of the Rhodesian Light Infantry family, a very happy Christmas and hope for a prosperous 2018 to all. ______Australia and New Zealand Branch

Doug Paxton – Chairman Australia & New Zealand

The end of the year is fast approaching; many activities are centered on the forthcoming festivities and summer holidays. The cricket has started and the “Poms” haven’t fired to any extent. Apart form work these have been a few of the distractions that most of us have had.

The Association has been relatively quiet here in Australia, with so many ouens in different parts of the country; its usually just social small group catch-ups that are the norm. Three 2 Commando ouens have been getting together for a drink and a Braai in Adelaide every few months this year and many others in Perth and other cities.

We’ve started to make plans for the ANZAC Day 2018 in Perth. It has been many years since the RLI Association has had the Anzac gathering here; indeed it has been in Brisbane for the last 5 years. This was decided at our last AGM held prior to the ANZAC 2017. There are more RLI ouens in Queensland and WA, Perth than other places in Australia, so it’s obvious to be going to Perth.

During the time that we have met up in Brisbane we have been able to develop closer ties with other organizations and members of the Rhodesian Security Forces (RSF) wider Diasporas. It has been noted that the turn out for the ANZAC day march has shown an overall improvement, during this time, in Non-RLI attendees to the point that the contingent, all be it close to the end of the March always gets a loud acknowledgment from the gathered spectators. This in part has been due to the work started by the previous RLIA chairman Jimmy Swan and also the formation of the Rhodesian Veterans Association by a number of people in the Brisbane area but particularly driven by Clive Cooke. This has lead to the improvement of dress on the march. Clive has been instrumental to get a blazer badge for the association so that now all attendees to the marches are dressed in Jacket, Tie with relevant medals and unit badges displayed. This fundamentally means that there is a gathering point in Brisbane for those members of the association who cannot travel to the ANZAC parade when it’s held out of Brisbane.

Remembrance Day 11/11/2017, Brisbane.

The Rhodesian Veterans Association in Brisbane organized this event and the gathering was along the Brisbane River in the Botanical Gardens. (This is a very similar place to where we have held our ANZAC memorial service prior to the March). It was an opportunity for all to gather and pay respect to the fallen of all wars and recognition of Rhodesia’s contribution. There was a wide representation of the different braches of the Rhodesian Armed Services: RLI, SAS, RAR, Grey Scouts, Rhodesia Regiment, Indep Co’s, BSAP and others. Richard Johnson led the service with contributions from many others. The Choir from The University of Queensland Musical Society added a special extra to the morning with the Hymn “Abide with me “and also a beautiful rendition of the Australian National Anthem as well as the singing of “Rise O Voices”. There could have been a few more people attending and this was despite a wide spread email and social media exposure for the event. I had the pleasure of meeting Susan Hirst who had come down from the Sunshine Coast for the ceremony. Susan is the sister of Hamish Macintyre (2cdo 6 troop Officer) and daughter of Major Gen Derry Macintyre.

Following the service we spent some time at the Port Office Hotel, for some liquid refreshment.

ANZAC 2018 Perth.

The major activity for the year ahead will be in Perth. There will be a dinner 24th April, with the March 25th April and a post March braai and get together.

There is additional significance for the Anzac Day this year, it being the centenary of the end of the Great War. The majority of Australian troops departing to the war did so from the West Australian ports.

There will be more detailed arrangement notices early in the New Year but make a diary note now especially those who might be able to travel to join us, taking advantage of cheaper flights.

There have been a number of our own who have left us this year whether as a result of a sudden or chronic illness. I have always been humbled on hearing of their passing as perhaps I have not known them personally but we have all shared the brotherhood of the Battalion. It was particularly sad to see the death after a long illness of Lt Col C Aust, who was OC when I was a Troopie in 2 Commando in 1979, to meeting him at the 50th Anniversary celebrations in the UK, where he was a most gracious and quiet man. Obviously, there are many who new him much better than I and where tributes have been made to him and will be made with in this publication.

I wish everyone and their nearest and dearest a wonderful, peaceful Christmas and New Year, with renewed vigor to take up the challenges of 2018.

BLASTS FROM THE PAST!!!!!!

“They have the Faces of Boys but they fight like Lions”

“Images by Charlie Aust”

“Excerpts from Cheetah Magazine December 1978”

A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE from LT GENL G.P. WALLS, GLM, DCD, MBE.

"I was delighted to receive the first edition of 'Cheetah', the regimental newsletter in a new and attractive format. At the same time, I was honoured and privileged to be invited to write a Christmas message for this issue.

Christmas is traditionally a time for families to draw together, spiritually, mentally, and where possible, physically, and I welcome and applaud the renewed efforts by the RLI Association to keep all those who wear the Green and Silver In touch with each other. The Association has done good work in the past; may the present surge of effort result in even greater effectiveness.

It seems so many years ago that I took my leave of the Regiment as CO, but what I said then still applies, and is even more appropriate now. I remarked that when the going became really tough, and when all the chips were down, I hoped I would find myself among RLI guys and bolstered by their morale, spirit, and fighting qualities. With the RLI on our side, we can only be winners! But more than that, the camaraderie and will to fight, provide the best environment in which to be. The going hasn't become all that tough and the final play is not yet to hand, but we live in momentous times, when the future of our civilization and standards are at stake. Thank God for the incredible RLI; the country owes you so much, and I have so much pride in still "belonging" through the Association.

A happy Christmas to all members and families of the Regiment and the Association; and full confidence In the maintenance of standards, opportunities, and pursuit of happiness in 1979 and beyond."

JOKES FOR THE BLOKES

"Come on Doctor, let's have it. How am I?" "Well, your teeth are all right, but those gums will have to come out." * * * The teacher was warning the children against catching cold in the rotten, snowy, freezing weather. She said: "I had a little brother once who was only six years old and one day he took his brand new sled out into the snow. But he caught pneumonia, and three days later he died." Silence. Then a voice asked: "Where's his sled?"

"Uncle John! Gladys has eaten a poisoned mushroom!" "I'm busy, Fred." "Uncle John! Now Gladys has fallen in the river! She's drowning!" "The mushroom would have got her anyway."

I had 18 bottles of whiskey in my cellar, and I was told by my wife to empty the contents of each and every bottle down the drain, or else! I said I would, and proceeded with the unpleasant task. I withdrew the cork from the first bottle and poured the contents down the sink, with the exception of one glass, which I drank. I extracted the cork from the second bottle, and did likewise with it, with the exception of one glass which I drank. I then extracted the cork from the third bottle and poured the whiskey down the sink which I drank. I pulled the cork from the fourth bottle down the sink, and poured the bottle down the glass which I drank. I pulled the bottle from the cork of the next, and drank one sink out of it, and threw the next down the glass. I pulled the sink out of the next glass and poured the cork down the bottle, then I corked the sink with the glass, bottled the drink and drank the pour. When I had everything emptied, I steadied the house with one hand, counted the glasses, corks, bottles and sinks with the other, which were 29, and as the house came by, I counted them again, and finally had all the houses in one bottle which I drank. I am not under the affluence of incohol, as some thinkle peep I am. I am not half as thunk as you might drink. I fool so feelish, I don't know who is me and the drunker I stand here, the longer I get.

A certain WO2 on having landed by parachute in potentially hostile area, at the top of his voice — "Gather around me, I'm a married man!"

______

FIREFORCE (Article by Rhodesian Air Force Association - )

Fireforce is a variant of the military tactic of vertical envelopment of a target by helicopter-borne and parachute infantry developed by the Rhodesian Security Forces during the Rhodesian Bush War. Regiments involved included the Rhodesian Light Infantry (RLI), the Rhodesian African Rifles (RAR), the Rhodesian Special Air Service (SAS) and the Selous Scouts, assisted by the Rhodesian Air Force. The Fireforce counterinsurgency missions were designed to trap and eliminate ZANLA Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army and ZIPRA Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army insurgents before they could flee.

The idea of a “Fireforce” was initially discussed by a few forward –thinking RLI Officers in the early 70’s together with some Air Force pilots who had first-hand experience of the benefits of a flexible, heli-borne assault force in the early (1966) incursions and Op Hurricane after 1972. Col Pat Armstrong then of the RLI and later Selous Scouts put it crisply – “why waste time and resources with ground troops bumbling around the bush when the experts were there to find them (the enemy)?”

Wg Cdr Peter Briscoe, then of 7 Squadron (Alouettes) expanded “the main problem facing any Commander in a counter –insurgency campaign is basic. How do you find and force the guerrilla into confrontation (contacts) on your own terms, given the fact that the enemy’s tactics and training make him adept at avoiding these situations....in order to locate the guerrilla and force him to fight or surrender, the peculiar attributes of ground and air forces acting in concert are required. Employed in the appropriate manner they provide the best possible chance of inflicting heavy casualties, and combined they provide a formidable fighting force”

Fireforce was under operational command of the senior Air Force member of a JOC, typically located at a FAF (Forward Airfield) in the one of the operational Areas, and deployed in reaction to enemy ambushes, farm attacks, or observation post (OP) sightings, and could also be called in by trackers or patrols who had made contact with the enemy and then called for reinforcements. Fireforce was first deployed in January 1974, and saw its first action a month later on 24 February 1974.[3]

The operational Fireforce assault or response usually composed of a first wave of 32 soldiers carried to the scene by three helicopters (G-Cars) and one Dakota (ParaDak), with a command/gunship helicopter (K-Car) and a light attack aircraft in support (Lynx). One of the advantages of the Fireforce was its flexibility, as all that was needed was a reasonable airstrip.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fireforce - cite_note- Cocks.2C_p_32-2 There were three distinct types of Fireforce operations: Pre-emptive strikes, callouts and rapid-reaction Fireforce. Pre-emptive strikes were usually mounted as a result of Special Branch intelligence gained from captured terrorists, SAS or Selous Scouts reconnaissance teams or aerial reconnaissance. These were usually planned well in advance and normally timed for first light. Callouts were generally from ground troops in clandestine OPs; there would be little time to plan the operation, usually less than 30 minutes from call to airborne. Rapid reaction would be undertaken if ground forces or civilians were under attack, and the Fireforce would be briefed over radio while en route to the scene

The Fireforce principle required a high level of cooperation between the Air Force and Army and this was maintained at all times. The Army provided the combat troops while the Air Force supplied the helicopters, fixed wing aircraft, their pilots and deadly air to ground firepower. The Commando OC directed ground operations from the K-Car from an orbit above the contact area. The troop carrying helicopters ferried troops to and from the contact zone, carried out casualty evacuation and resupplied troops with arms and ammunition. The objective was to deploy troops into the contact area in the shortest possible time. Once the G-Cars had deployed the first wave of troops, they returned to base to fetch the second or third waves. Depending on distances, the second wave would sometimes proceed toward the contact area in vehicles loaded with drums of fuel for the helicopters, to reduce their turnaround time.

Aircraft were allocated by Air Force HQ in response to changing operational circumstances. By retaining centralised Command it was possible to allocate air power into all corners of the country. In the later stages of the war it was not uncommon for an aircraft and its crew to be carrying out strikes in three different areas of the country in a single day, making optimum use of these scarce resources. Aircrew deployed in Fireforce flew up to 8 hours a day at the height of operations, an exceptional rate of effort

Helicopters are complex machines requiring careful maintenance. Each hour of flying might require up to 12 hours of maintenance and servicing. Month after month in the 7 Sqn diary the figure of 95% serviceability appears. The Air Force maintained the highest Alouette III utilization rate of any Air Force anywhere in the world. This was achieved by careful monitoring and management of the aircraft and maintenance schedules so that major servicing such as an engine change was staggered. But the highest praise must go to the total loyalty, dedication and outstanding ability of the technicians, or plumbers as they were sometimes called. They were neither clock-watchers or trade-unionists. Moreover, Technicians doubled up as Air Gunners, and apart from pre and post flight inspections and first-line servicing would attend to any snags that had developed, often working through the night to make sure the aircraft was serviceable at first light

In every hour of flying an Alouette would consume a drum of Avtur (Aviation Turbine Fuel). Initially pumped by hand, eventually all helis carried a “Putt putt” to speed up refuelling. Drums of fuel would be pre- positioned at Police Stations and FAFs. Fuel resupply to the forward areas was an ongoing logistical challenge to meet the operational requirement, initially using 220 Litre drums in trucks deployed from main bases and depots, and later pillow tanks at FAFs replenished from (old and slow!) Leyland “Reiver” tankers which transported bulk supplies from Oil Company Depots into the forward areas. These required escort vehicles and armed escorts drawn from Station Security and Air Force HQ personnel on 24 hour standby.

The Fireforce tactics resulted in remarkably high kill ratios (80-1) in favour of the Rhodesian Security Forces, while enabling them to patrol vast swathes of territory with a relatively small number of soldiers and aircraft. Their skilful use of airpower as an envelopment technique was as groundbreaking as it was deadly. The Rhodesian Security Forces were arguably the most effective counterinsurgency units in modern military history. It is noteworthy that the references quoted most frequently on websites are those of Richard Wood and Chris Cocks, below

The very last Fireforce operation was at Ruombwe Mountain near Inyazura on the eve of the ceasefire on 28 December 1979. The last word, perhaps fittingly, came from a Zanla document captured in a Fireforce operation: “We were never told about the power of fireforce on the other side.”

 Cocks, Chris (2009). Fireforce: One Man's War in the Rhodesian Light Infantry. 30° South Publishers. ISBN 0-9584890-9-2.  Wood, J.R.T (2009). Counter-strike From the Sky: The Rhodesian All-arms Fireforce in the War in the Bush 1974–1980. 30° South Publishers. ISBN 1-920143-33-5  Beryl Salt (2000). A History of the Rhodesian Air Force 1920-1980 ISBN: 978-1-920143-73-2

THE MANNE SPEAK

Russian Military Academy St Petersburg on Rhodesia The commanding officer at the Russian Military Academy in St Petersburg gave a lecture on 'Potential Problems and Military Strategy'. At the end of the lecture, he asked are there questions? An officer stood up and asked, "Will there be a third world war? And will Russia take part in it?" The general answered both questions in the affirmative.... Another officer asked, "Who will be the enemy?" The general replied, "All indications point to China". Everyone in the audience was shocked. A third officer remarked, "General, we are a nation of only 150 million, compared to the 1.5 billion Chinese. Can we win at all, or even survive?" The general answered, "Just think about this for a moment: In modern warfare, it is not the quantity of soldiers that matters but the quality of an army's capabilities. For example, in Rhodesia in a population of just over 6 million, there were approximately 52,000 security forces, and they literally took on the rest of the world. After a small pause, yet another officer from the back of the auditorium asked: "Do we have enough Rhodesians? ______

By Doug Mackay

I enjoy reading the Cheetah and I’m always grateful that someone else has made the effort to tell their story. I didn’t think my RLI story would be of any interest, so I never wrote it - but Jimmy Swan is short of material.

This is a story about a small group who never fired a shot in anger but played their small part. We were conscripts in Intake 150, January 1976. In 1975 the government had closed all the loopholes for people like us who planned to go to tech or university. Chris Cocks records it as a "watershed in the history of the RLI. Intake 150 was the largest ever, and was made up mostly of 18-year-old national servicemen, many of whom simply did not want to be there". Damned right we didn’t - it was dangerous.

After basics, a few of us were selected on the basis of goodness knows what, to go to the School of Infantry to do the Drill and Weapons Course - Inf. 139. Like many interesting things that happened in the RLI at the time, I think it was Brian Lewis’ idea.

There were 8 of us conscripts along with Billy Wiggill and Bundu Peters (both Corporals at the time) who went to Gwelo. By then, the QM had blown the year’s uniform budget on the 4th at Borrowdale, so we didn’t get KD shorts, puttees and long socks. We were grateful for this. It gave us another 10 minutes in bed while the others struggled with their puttees. This was also 10 more minutes to sleep-off the rum-flavoured meths they served in the corporal’s mess. At 6.00am inspection on the drill square, Dino Martin and his fellow instructors stood one pace back from the fumes which were visible in the cold morning air.

It was an interesting mix of RLI, SAS, MP, BSAP, Artillery and a small group of Coloureds who had to stay in a different hut. Apart from Billy Wiggill demonstrating how to start marching with the right foot and right arm at the same time (credit due: he got about 5 paces into it) those guys were funny. They had their own marching style: 50% jive-ass and 50% fuck-you.

The RLI names I remember were Ian Richards, Justin Graham, Brian Carrihill, Andy van den Heever, Ron Lindsay, Chris Rabe, Gareth David and Willem Coetzee. I used to travel with Ron Lindsay in his Datsun 120 back to Salisbury on weekends. It was a one-case trip, doing about 150 along the strip roads via Lalapanzi and Mvuma. Ron had one cassette: Rodriguez ‘Cold Fact’. When it got the end, we’d turn it over and start again - every Friday and Sunday night. I never got tired of that music and went to see Rodriguez in Brisbane in 2016: 40 years later.

A number of us were then sent to Mt Darwin to join DC Barry Mulder training Guard Force recruits how to defend a Protected Village with a .303, 5 rounds of WWII ammunition and 4 week’s training. For all our many months on the drill square, us whiteys had nothing on these guys when it came to marching. They sang when they marched: ‘Pamsuro pe gomo teno tenderera; (repeat twice); zwarai zakanaka”. It was heart-stirring to hear them coming from a long way away. I often wonder how many of these poor buggers survived.

The Mt Darwin mess had two records: Rocky Horror Picture Show and I never thought I’d forget the other one, but I have. When Brian Lewis wasn’t looking we’d hitch hike back to ‘Burg (Budgie Shearer’s term). I’ve done a lot of things since then, but not many match the pride we felt wearing the RLI stable belt and that little silver beret badge in First Street. We were also aware of how good we had it at Mt Darwin: we listened to the radios and saw the choppers going out that day to collect Cpl Locke and others.

The memory fades, but sometime in late 1976 I was sent back to Cranborne to train an intake with about 80% foreigners including Marines from Vietnam and Brits fresh out of fighting in Ireland. We went on a training exercise up near Mazoe with CSM Moose Erasmus and Capt Peter Cooper. We established camp, dug the big hole for the thunder box and erected the hessian fence. We had a good tent for our staff mess, as it rained a lot that week. This, combined with the clay soils in the area, meant that the long-drop did not soak away as planned, but continued to fill.

One morning, towards the end of the exercise - not joking - Moose retired to the hessian enclosure for his post-breakfast movement. He hadn’t reached the Herald sports pages, when the sodden timbers finally gave way and the thunder box, Moose and assorted planks lurched backwards into the hole. I will never in my life forget the bellowing and swearing. Birds fled the trees and small animals ran for cover. At gunpoint, Capt Cooper bravely dispatched the most junior of us to do a Reece. We arrived, wide-eyed and unarmed to an arresting sight: Moose on his back, still seated on the box, his feet in the air, shorts around his ankles and his arse about one inch above the liquid. There was no humour involved at this stage. In fact, not for a few days. Moose was a big man, and the slippery surface surrounding the hole required super-human powers to extract him, without risking further sink age.

The Signals guys gave us a call sign: Woodpeckers. I never found out why, but I have the beer mug, a lot of pride and lifelong memories of some funny moments. I read the stories of hardship and courage in the Cheetah and I’m thankful that braver men than I stepped-up to do the heavy lifting. Thanks fellas.

______

Taylor from Zim reflects on the evening of polling in Zimbabwe/Rhodesia in 1979 - or - 80 (can’t remember!!!!)

I was in Assault Pioneers, Support Commando, and we were assigned to go and guard the broadcasting studios of the RBC Zimbabwe, African, services.

In MY pip, what the HELL (!??) - we’d just “lost” a war that we’d actually “won” – and my brain was in total turmoil as we motored to our latest task in the Highfield area of the then Salisbury.

On our arrival and after designating fire positions, guard rosters and whatever it was soldiers did in those sort of situations in those days I took a stroll around the area. My thoughts went to the Liberian situation and the surname, Taylor, came to mind; why couldn’t I, Colour Sergeant Taylor, pull the SAME move, and take over the broadcasting station, and inform the world that we in Rhodesia just couldn’t let the Communists have the country just for the whims of a few pommie politicians?

As we all know this never came to pass!!!! Ironically though, it HAS happened 37 years down the line, where Zimbabweans have now liberated themselves from their “liberators”!!!! We have some interesting times ahead up here! Just for a change! For those who HAVE them, download my book, “Full Circle” from Amazon, on your kindles. I am working on trying to get “Lost In Africa” back into print.

I must apologise for lack of communication and support of the Association, but am not really in a position to do much; Paddy and I barely survive in the harsh environment up here!! Go safe and have a good Festive season and may 2018 be good for all of us.

Cheers, Stu and Paddy Taylor.

______Reminiscences of a time long ago in a land far far away

By Bill Cochrane

I am writing this as you are all aware nearly 40 years after the event so my memories might be a bit hazy but as they were momentous days I remember most of what happened. Just to clear the air I did not serve in the Rhodesian Army and certainly not in your very fine unit The Rhodesian Light Infantry but I did have some interaction with the RLI during our 3 months in Rhodesia I was an Australian Infantry Corporal attached as a member of a Coy based team embedded with 3 Indep Coy RAR at Inyanga in the Eastern Highlands an area which my boss Lt Dave Crago of the Royal Australian Engineers and I were informed was a hotbed of Terrorist activity and it did have it’s moments while we were there. I am a member of your association and assist with the RLIRA Australia & New Zealand Branch I am their Australian Military Liaison a post which Jimmy Swan created for me. I am proud to be associated with the men of the RLI but I am starting to ramble on so are you sitting comfortably? Well let us begin.

I had been in the Australian army for 8 years and was a section commander in one of our regular infantry Battalions (8/9 RAR) at the time I was in C Coy but had been in B and Spt Coy prior to that so I was a reasonably senior Junior NCO I just happened to be amongst my other specialist skills a Regimental Signaler a job I was particularly good at (or I thought so anyway) but at the time of the Rhodesia deployment I was a rifle section commander in C Coy. I had been on a number of deployments since joining the army in 1971 but nothing really special. We had all been hearing about your war in Rhodesia over the years and a couple of us planned to finish up our 6 year contracts and see if we could come on over and give a hand. Vietnam was over and we were getting bored the odd tour of Malaysia was wearing a bit thin (I had done 3 by then and we had a Brit Sergeant in the Battalion who had a brother in RLI who kept telling us young blokes to get out and go to either the Paras or RLI for some excitement. Fast forward to Nov 1979 I was sitting in the stand by room at PTS waiting for the weather to clear to go for a jump when the announcement was made over the radio that Australia was going to contribute to a Monitoring Force in Rhodesia my ears pricked up and I said to one of my mates “I reckon I’ll be on that” it was just a premonition.

I returned to the Battalion on a Friday afternoon and once showered and changed went out looking for my mates it didn’t take long to find them as Diggers are creatures of habit and they were boozing in our local pub The Brook Hotel not far from the Barracks. We were the bane of John the bar manager’s existence, he barred us for life almost every Saturday but always let us back in the next weekend because he knew where most of his money came from and it was only Digger’s youthful high spirits. Once I had a beer in hand and was sitting with my mates bullshitting about jumping out of planes and conquering the local RAAF beauties an Willytown (where our PTS was located in those days) my mate said “Fred (our CO) wants to see you on Monday” and as I had been away for 3 weeks and hadn’t been in any trouble that I knew of I thought Rhodesia.

On Monday I was told by my Pl Comd to head down to Bullshit Castle and speak to the RSM so off I trot in my highly starched jungle greens to BHQ. The RSM who was my first CSM in a Battalion 8 years before sits me down and we wait for the summons from Fred who was a Coy Comd in the same Bn all those years ago. Lt.Col Fred Pfitzner comes in we give him time for a brew and the RSM ushers me in Salutes etc and with formalities over invites me to sit down. “How would you like to go to Rhodesia as a part of the Battalion’s commitment to an Australian component of a monitoring force?” says Fred, mate I nearly jumped over the desk and kissed him.

Back up to CHQ and it’s down top Trg Coy to meet the other members of the Battalion who will be going. Of course I know all of them and I am pleased to see my Pl Comd is also down to go. From here on in it is a mad rush of briefings, medicals and needles, the one for Bilharzias is a beauty it’s the consistency of super glue and takes about 10 minutes to administer via your backside the clearly gay medic seems to be enjoying it more than me and all he can say is “Keep wiggling your toes dearie.”

This is late November 1979 and we are waiting for news of a deployment date while we do this we are training for the deployment PT, Lectures on the composition of The RSF, mine drills, break contact drills and the like. Each day we hope to be told we are off but the Rhodesians have other ideas and blow up bridges in Zambia to slow down any possible ZIPRA mechanised advance into Rhodesia and this upsets the Bleeding Hearts in the West but finally on the 21st December 1979 we fly out to our staging area in Perth WA along with the Fijian contingent as they don’t have any planes of their own.

Perth WA 21-24 Dec 1979

The contingent concentrated in Perth at the RAAF Base it is pretty much made up of Infantry, Armour and Engineers all what we call Arms Corps. There is the we are armed for our own self defence each soldier has a SLR with at this stage 3 magazines and a 9mm Browning SLP (which I had to guard with my life as you Rhodies kept trying to swap it for one of those shitty Star things) with2 magazines which when we got to Rhodesia we beefed up to 6 mags for the SLRs and I was given 2 grenades by my Rhodesian hosts along with some 7.62 tracer for my magazines.

We are held up for a day in Perth as a Cyclone sweeps across the Indian Ocean and as our midway stop is in Mauritius we are put on hold so another day of hurry up and wait but soon enough we are on the RAAF flight and are on our way.

Most of the mob are on the RAAF 707 but some lucky ones are travelling by C130 and have left a few hours ahead of the main body we will overtake them en route. Finally we land in Mauritius and are transported to our hotel on the outskirts of Port Louis, the Capital City. The Cyclone has ravaged the hotel and there is no glass in the windows the rooms are wet and the power is out. As the power is out we wait for ages in the candlelit dining room for a meal after which we decide to go into port Louis to see what it is like. During the evening we bump into some Rhodesians on holiday and they ask us what we are doing there when we tell them they tell us we will only last a week before the Gooks kill us we tell him “Get fucked mate we are Australian infantrymen it will take at least 2 weeks”.

The next day is Christmas day we get on the RAAF 707 and it is decked out with Christmas decorations and we are told we can have 2 beers each by this time we are starting to think about where we are going and what we are doing so even though it`s only 2 beers I give mine to a mate.

Suddenly it’s time and we begin our circuitous descent into Salisbury the plane lands taxies and stops we are sprayed and given a quick talking to and it’s off the plane wait out in the open for our gear I just want to be reunited with my rifle.

Once we have all our kit we are taken to a tent and issued with a CLAMOR (Commonwealth Liaison and Monitoring Organisation) ID Card which with my Aussie one will be used to identify me. We are then transported to the RLI transit lines at Cranbourne Barracks. We debus and are allocated a hut where we go and dump our gear on a bed then the RLI have put on a Christmas dinner for us we have that and I think the BOS is an Aussie which is why he has been stabbed to work Christmas day.

After lunch it’s off to Morgan High School for lessons on the Pommie Radio gear and more briefings at we get back to the lines at about 2400. Put Talc over our Sops and get our gear ready for a 0500 C130 flight to Gran reef.

26 Dec 1979 – 03 Jan 1980 Ceasefire (part 1):

O445 we are down in the revetments filling our magazines with 7.62 & 9mm rounds when along comes some high ranking Pom asking us how we were going and which AO were we deploying to, a bit of chit chat and it’s up up and away us and some Kenyans a little late we are landing at Grand Reef and are greeted by a curious mob from the RLI Fire Force in location. There is also a Crocodile from 4RR there to take us and our mountain of kit which includes everything from a marquee tent to a silver T pot to Rusape. We drop in at the JOC next to the Hotel Cecil and it’s off to Rusape with this big RAR soldier and his MAG riding shotgun.

A while late we pull into the fort at Rusape and again are briefed by the CO 4RR who I believe was a Rugby player of note on the tactical situation my boss and me then go to a local motel and have a tub and get changed into civilian clothes as we have been invited to Christmas dinner with the 4RR boys. I tuck my 9mm down the back my jeans and we walk the short distance back to the Fort. Christmas dinner on Boxing day we ask. It seems they had a call out on Christmas Day and missed it so today it is and let’s hope we don’t get another one. The mess is a make do affair made out of hessian and wood but the company is good so it’s a good night we walk back to our room where I tell my boss to let me know if he gets up in the night so I don’t shoot him. I put my 9mm beside my head and sleep it’s been a long week.

The next day we wait for our transport to take us on to Inyanga and when it arrives we have a bit of a laugh. It`s a long way from the armoured Crocodile it’s a Datsun van! We have a mountain of kit me my boss and a shotgun from 4RR (who seems to think he is a Selous Scout) all to fit in this car it’s gonna be interesting and it is. We break down on the road and it is up to me to see if I can get this Pom radio working after quick soldiers 5 the night before and our “Selous Scout” telling us every 5 minutes we were going to get a snotty whatever that meant. Anyway I got the message through and a while later the unit Peugeot pulls up with Capt Sally Simpson the Coy 2IC who tells Cpl Rob Page our driver to stay with the gear ad the Datto as a recovery vehicle was coming and he could keep the Selous Scout for company so off we went. 3 Indep Coy RAR Inyanga:

A time later we drove through the gates of Inyanga barracks home for almost the next 3 months it is a hive of activity with soldiers running everywhere and crocodiles driving up to the CHQ building. As we go up to CHQ we can hear someone working the radios in the Ops Room at one end of the building it is the OC trying to get a Casevac chopper in for one of his young pl Comds who has been wounded in a running fight with a Terr gang in Juliasdale, they have stolen beer for a Christmas drink. Sadly 2Lt Gus du Toit is KIA and some of his Pl wounded. It is a dramatic and tragic introduction to the Operational Area and Rhodesia; we are briefly introduced to the OC and taken away to the Officers Mess for another briefing. I am to live in the Sgts Mess and once the formalities are over we are shown to our CP area. We set to putting up a huge antenna for our Comms we are given an office in CHQ to work out of and before we know it is 2100 and time to call it a day so I grabbed my rifle and my gear and went down towards the Sgts Mess. Those of you who know Inyanga will know that to get to the Snake Pit you have to go past the Cpls and soldiers mess and as I walked past it I realised I was thirsty and wondered if I could go in and buy a coke. It sounded pretty busy in there and I was wondering what my reception would be as we were expecting some resentment from the Rhodesians as we were here to give their country away. As I pondered this a head appeared out the door and said “You must be the Aussie” I think it was the slouch hat that gave it away “Get your arse in here” So in I went and it was packed with tough looking young men some still sporting camo cream and all having a beer. I had my first Castle beer thrust into my hand and that was that, I like to think I made some friends that night that I still occasionally converse with on FB but they certainly looked after me for the entire time I was with them. Names of some of them are Rob Page, Mike Christmas, Fred Bassett, Kevin Friend, Lloyd Flint just to name a few. Suffice to say we had a few beers over the next few months.

Ceasefire 27 Dec 1979 – 03 Jan 1980 (part 2):

This week was a very busy one for us and the local BSAP Inspector Eric Hurd as we had to get any bands or loose groups of “Ters” to AP Echo (manned by my mates from 8/9RAR and some Poms) before the week ran out and they would be fair game again. The first group we went out to meet were walking along the road from Juliasdale we zoomed out in the BSAP Renault with a white sheet on a broom stick flying out of the rear window and when we saw them approaching we stopped short and got out. My rifle was already on action and I wondered if I should slip the safety catch onto fire the Black BSAP constable also looked a little concerned and we watched as my Boss and Inspector Hurd approached the gang and asked them what they were doing. They told him they wanted to go to Echo so we sorted out buses for them and got them there. Another day we were in Juliasdale and 3 truck loads of ululating women and “Terrs” pulled in and as we were sorting this out Rob Page drove in on his way back to Inyanga stopped and said to me he had never seen so many gooks in one place I am out of here and drove off. Now I know you RLI Ouens are going to say Agh Man they were only tame “Terrs” the real ones were out and about intimidating the locals and these “Terrs” were only Mujibas It was not until I was “educated” by my RAR mates and actually saw real Terrs for the first time that I knew the difference. This routine of go out find the groups and get them to AP Echo continued for the week after which Lord Soames decided that he must let the RSF off the leash to counter the rampant intimidation of the population in the TTLs so our role changed.

04 Jan – 02 Mar to the elections:

Things quietened down here for a while but there were some incidents in the 3 Indep AO. We went looking for cached weapons. A local was held up by a gook on the Juliasdale road but he managed to grab his AK and drive off with it. I bet he had some explaining to do. A RLI Stick commanded by Griffo an Aussie dropped in after a contact and we had more than a few beers when I woke up they had gone and I found 2 Chicom Stick grenades, a set of bloodied Chinese Chest webbing and 3 full AK magazines beside me a gift in exchange of my Aussie webbing which I wasn’t using as I had been wearing Faradays chest webbing for a while. A bus was ambushed on the Salisbury Road and a box of Australian Army ration pack matches was found on a body in the ambush site, this was traced back to AP Echo and the OC 3 Indep insinuated that the Gooks were being allowed to come and go as they please and wanted to eliminate the Australian Capt an Artillery officer as he was not doing his job.

Intimidation was rife and we went to the local hospital to see some local women who had had sharpened stakes shoved up the Fannies. A retired BSAP constable had been murdered and we went to dig up his body his wife had shown us where the grave was.

A stick from the Coy ambushed the local hotel in Mengandoza and as the gooks were getting away the stick MAG gunner followed the car as it went behind a Kaffir bus and some poor old bugger who was sleeping inside was stitched up. I was told that on another walk in 5 people came down a track after curfew and when challenged the lead person lifted what looked like a weapon off his shoulder so the MAG gunner engaged and killed one old man with an umbrella and 5 old ladies but I wasn’t there so I don’t know if it was true

I have mentioned my Boss was an Engineer and once we had got to know the Rhodesians and they had come to trust us we were asked to assist where we could and every time the Coy or a Pl went outside the gate I went with them. Every time I went out the gate I went to the same state of weapon readiness as my Rhodesian mates which was Action, I drove over the same mined roads in the Honde Valley and to Ruda and Nyamaropa

And while we were there took the same risks. We didn’t fight in your war but we were certainly ready to and defend ourselves if we had to.

My boss was asked if he would clear and pull a mine cache found at a regular crossing point on the Gairezi River so off we went again in the crocodiles to the DC camp at Ruda where we dismounted and walked to the crossing point. My boss located the cache and we all went and found somewhere to hide just in case it went BOOM! There was a huge Rock on the Mozams side of the river and crouched down behind it so at on one occasion I could say I had a foot or my arse in Mozambique on my holiday in Rhodesia. Cache made safe and a number of large Chicom AT mines recovered and it was back to Inyanga and the usual cold beers.

We got into a routine and the days flew past I had a couple of trips to Salisbury one of which I got a ride to Rusape and was required to hitch hike the rest of the way. I started walking along the road but stopped when I got to a sign which warned it wasn’t safe to continue past it after dark so even though it was only about 0900 I sat down on my gear and waited. I thought to myself that I had never hitched before with a loaded rifle slung over my shoulder and a 9mm pistol down the back of my jeans and got a lift. Not long and a car with a SA businessman and his wife picked me up and dropped me off in downtown Salisbury. I am not going to elaborate here except to say I went to all the places I should have The Coq Dor, Club Tomorrow The Prospector Bar and that place with the pool where all you guys used to go on a Sunday I have forgotten the name The Oasis? And then it was back to Inyanga with the OC and getting ready for the Elections.

01 Mar 1980 – 03 Mar 1980 The Elections:

A Coy of 4RR turned up at Inyanga they were our protection for the Voting station we were to man so we went off the a mission in the TTL I think it was Elim Mission but not the one in the Vumba where the missionaries and the children were murdered. Wandering around I picked up the tail fin of an RPG and there were obvious signs the Gooks had paid the place a visit at some stage I gave this to the British Bobby who was keen to take some souvenirs back to the UK with him. For this part of our deployment I was drafted as No2 on the 60mm mortar. The Coy set up its defensive position and ploughshares and we waited for the locals to come and vote which they did. We didn’t see any sign of intimidation but that had already taken place well away from here.

While we were in the voting station the Pls from 3 Indep were moving in to Op AP Echo just in case they had to take it out. My mates were getting ready to do a bolt in case the gooks in the camp decided to do them in they were very jumpy I had paid my mates a visit earlier getting a ride on a Dak full of tough looking young men who were going there to reinforce the police camp on a hill near the AP as the Dak flew over the AP the Gooks started to panic as they thought as the RLI Fire Force T Shirt says “Let us drop in on you it’ll change your life” they were going to get culled so they threatened the Monitors, with death and turned all their weapons on them men from my Bn led by a great mate and Vietnam veteran and it took a lot of persuasion to convince them this was not so. So when I walked into the camp and they were all standing to in the bunkers I asked what the f@#k are you guys doing? Jack Selmes the CSM said “Did you just fly in on that Dak?” “You nearly got us all killed.”. Then he saw my 2 grenades a HE pineapple type and a WP and said “You are not bringing those things in here”. And made me drop my webbing 50m away.

Anyway the elections were over and we went back to Inyanga to wait for the results we played the 4RR boys at cricket and waited. I gave what was left of my Australian kit away as by now it was shorts T shirt and chest webbing with my 9mm in a shoulder holster and veld skoens my Aussie mates thought the wrong bloke had got on the bus when we ran away.

03 Mar 1980 The Running away:

I think it was the 3rd of March we said goodbye to some now great mates and were dropped off at a Roadhouse near Rusape to wait for our bus to take us to Salisbury and back home to Australia I got on the bus and got some really strange looks with my T shirt shorts and Vellies wearing my chest webbing. Those of us who were with the Rhodesians were different to those who had spent their time in the bush with the Gooks.

We arrived at New Sarum and the Boss of the Monitoring Force General Acland said some nice things a couple of Fijians were presented with MMs for actions in Lebanon and we flew home via SA and left you all to your fate. To those of us who “soldiered” albeit for a short time and in no way am I suggesting we had a combat role in your war we felt we had left friends in the lurch, the guys from 3 Indep were still watching AP Echo and some of them almost were killed there but that was it that was my short time in your beautiful war torn country. Even today I have a guilt complex and as I see the news breaking about a possible coup and overthrow of that despot who we helped into power I just wonder if the devil you know is better then the devil you don’t.

I have probably left things out here but thanks for letting me submit this memoir in your Cheetah magazine.

Duty First

Bill Cochrane

9RAR,8/9RAR,1RAR,1RTB,PTS and ASCSR (Australian Services Contingent Southern Rhodesia)

Locations of all the CMF teams

Map courtesy of Russ Hayden Fulton ex RLI and RAR

______2 COMMANDO DAY DIAMONDS FROM THE ROUGH (Rob Marsh) Transcript of a speech made on 2 Commando Day held at Dickie Fritz on Saturday 3 June 2017.

“After the success of the Walking with the King Day celebrating Colonel Parker and 1 Commando I was tasked with putting together something on 2 Commando for today. After looking into the history of 2 Commando it became rapidly apparent that we had no big guys wandering around in pajamas or even baby blue onesies with a teddy bear patch. In fact it will become obvious that some of our officers didn’t have time to wear pajamas’.

So today I am going to give you a brief history of some of the legends or diamonds from 2 Commando who went on to spread their knowledge gained from 2 Commando elsewhere. We chose the theme “Diamonds from the Rough” because of the connection to the 2 Commando badge and also the book written by one of 2 Commando’s OC’s - Derry McIntyre. At this point I would like to thank Pat Armstrong, Ian Bate, Brian Lewis, Graeme Murdoch, Bruno Squara, Mike Rich and Wayne Furphy for their help in compiling these stories.

According to one source, both, the dagger and the diamond perceivably depicted the Commando's nicknames: "The Cutting Edge" and simply "The Cut" (diamond from the rough). In the same vein, "The Cut Above" was gleaned as a more popular nickname in 1977 once all the troops were Para-trained airborne forces. Please be aware that some of the stories may contain swearing and will be of a sexual nature so pay attention. Some of them may or may not have been embellished.

The Diamonds

Ian Bate

Affectionately known as Tufty by his friends and peers, his first operational posting in the Rhodesian Army was to 2 Commando where he was appointed as Troop Commander of 10 Troop. After a year in 10 Troop he served in various roles in other units until his consistent badgering got him appointed as 2 I/C 2 Commando under the leadership of Pat “the mobile wrinkle” Hill. After postings to Army HQ, School of Infantry 2 Indep and HQ 2 Brigade he was appointed as CO of RLI in 1978/79.

Ian told me he has many happy memories of those days particularly the excellence of the soldiers and NCOs. Names that spring to mind were CSM Lou Hallamore, CQMS Woody Williams, Ed Fouche but there were so many more. Ian says that 2 Commando were never a great sporting commando but easily won the shooting/assault course, drill and other military competitions.

On leaving the army Ian was employed in the Human Resources Department of a large retail outlet here in South Africa and he was responsible for finding jobs for many ex RLI members where he could. Ian is still involved in the RLI RA in his role as Patron of the Association and is still extremely interested in the welfare of ex members.

A very young Ian Bate.

Charlie Aust

Charlie Aust started his military career as a National Serviceman but enjoyed it so much he signed on and was selected for officer cadet course at the school of Infantry. He was awarded the Sword of Honour for his course and served in both1 RAR as well as RLI being OC 2 Commando in 1973/74, 2 I/C of the battalion in 1976/77 and Commanding Officer in December 1979 until the Battalion laid down its colours in October 1980. He was regarded as one of the RLI’s best K Car Commanders and was a favourite amongst the Selous Scouts pseudo operators. He was respected and adored by all who served with him.

Once in the operational area Charlie Aust would dress in shorts, veldschoens with no socks and one of those green army vests. He would attend JOC meetings, briefings etc in this dress mode the whole bush trip. This story of Charlie Aust’s scruffy attire leads nicely into the next 2 Commando OC I want to talk about-John Dawson.

John Dawson

As Charlie Aust was comfortable in his bush attire so was the John Dawson in his spic and span kit. His sartorial elegance made the late Roger Moore look like a redneck from Hicksville. He was smooth with a capital S. I am sure that he used a special hair gel made up from Vitalis, Araldite, Trinapon and Fibreglass resin. His hair never looked out of place even when he was walking to the chopper. Obviously the K car pilot was not allowed to start up until John had his helmet on and was miked up. John Dawson was quietly spoken, exuded an air of absolute calmness and never appeared flustered. Just the attributes you want in your Officer Commanding.

However, like all commanding officers in the Battalion was fiercely protective of his men. Bruno Squara recalls when 2 Commando was challenged by one the Indep Companies to a fight at the Queens Hall in Umtali. They made the mistake of calling 2 Commando pooftas amongst other things. Sandy Miller fell the Commando in and John told us to “go and sort them out”. We did. It was like a brawl in a Wild West saloon. 2 Commando guys were using chairs, tables, even the long benches to whack these idiots. After the mayhem was over and 2 Commando emerged victorious a formal complaint was laid against us. The next day John formed the Commando up again, ‘formally’ shat us out and then with a smile on his face informed us that “first round of drinks” from the canteen truck were on him that evening.

Major Smoothie

Pat Armstrong

Pat attended the officer cadet course and was commissioned into 2 Commando as Commander of 10 Troop. He then was an instructor at the Tactical Wing at School of Infantry before returning to RLI as Adjutant. Promoted to major he was Officer Commanding Support Commando before attending staff collage and Army HQ. He returned to RLI as Battalion 2 i/c before being promoted to Lt Colonel and Commanding Officer of the Selous Scouts. He joined the financial services industry in South Africa where he was in charge of Financial Planning division and sat on the ExCo of Alexander Forbes. In 2009 he set up his own management and leadership consulting business in Johannesburg. He now resides in a shack in Houghton and still hasn’t learnt how to cook braais but has not forgotten how to get Troopies to fill in for him.

Fraser Brown

Fraser joined 2 Commando in early 1976 and was posted to 10 Troop where after a year became Troop Sergeant. He spent three years on fire force, patrolling and external operations. On leaving RLI Fraser spent six months with Rhodesian Special Forces before returning to the UK where he re-enlisted with the Brigade of Guards, his old regiment as a trooper. In 1980 he passed the Special Forces selection in the UK where he served for 19 years with 22 SAS Regiment before retiring with the rank of RSM. During that time he took part in operations in the Falklands, Bosnia, Kosovo and Iraq. He then forged a successful career in the international risk management industry including being a founder partner in Erinsys. He now spends time between Dubai and Spain.

Others Who Deserve a Mention

Chris Schulenburg GCV served in 10 Troop before going onto much greater things. Too many to mention here.

Rick Van Malsen BCR who joined 10 Troop 2 Commando as a Troopie before being sent on Officer Cadet Course and being commissioned in February 1977. He was posted to 1 Commando as a troop officer where he was awarded the Bronze Cross of Rhodesia for valour during combat.

Ian Buttenshaw served as a subaltern in 2 Commando before eventually becoming the CO of 1 Commando Battalion and then forging a very successful career in the Sultan of Oman’s military.

Simon Willar, a Troopie in 10 Troop became a subaltern in Support Commando before going onto a career in advertising, including getting fired for overzealous lunch behaviour and thus forming the Get Fired Lunch annual event.

Peter Cooper who became OC Training Troop in RLI

Mark Adams BCR was initially an MAG gunner in 6 Troop before becoming a subaltern in 3 Commando and ending up as a Major in the South African army.

Graeme Murdoch BCR who joined Support Commando after a couple of years as Troop Officer of 8 Troop in 2 Commando.

Nigel Theron BCR was Troop Officer of 10 Troop before joining SAS where was killed on operations.

Joe du Plooy served as Troop Officer of 7 Troop in 2 Commando before being transferred out and who was killed in the Puma 164.

Martin Pearse SCR who was a subaltern in 2 Commando before joining SAS where he rose to the rank of Captain before being killed in action in Zambia.

Trevor Hodgson who was one of the best soldiers in the Battalion and who taught Graeme Murdoch about bush craft.

The Rough

Sex, drugs and rock and roll Sex

Although 3 Commando were the self-proclaimed lovers of the Battalion it appears after copious amounts of research that 2 Commando may have even been better. Why 3 Commando chose a fruit that goes soft in the heat is beyond me.

Le Coq d’Or, an R28 or was it all exaggeration

Graeme Murdoch told me of the story of Joe Du Plooy’s first R & R on return from his first bush trip as Troop Commander of 7 Troop. Joey was apparently quite shy and was just leaning against the bar counter quietly sipping his drink, when all sorts of different women starting approaching him one by one and tried to chat him up. He also noticed that after a few seconds of eye contact their eyes seemed to languorously slide down his body and come to focus on his crotch. After a number of instances of this behaviour and feeling rather uncomfortable he asked his Troop Sergeant what was going on. It turned out that the NCOs and other ranks, as Bill Wiggle likes to call them, had been telling all these ladies that Joey was hung like the proverbial donkey and that the R28 rifle grenade looked like a toothpick against him.

For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge

Felix Hannerman a trooper in Seven Troop seemed to have a libido that defied anything the cooks could put in the tea and was likely to manifest itself in the most unlikely of places. The first recorded occasion was on OP in a Masasa tree and he decided to relieve his sexual urge whilst looking for the enemy. Unfortunately his Troop Officer, Alan Lintner was lying down below and became collateral damage. Hanneman was recalled from his lofty perch, an RL rocked up to collect him and he spent 28 Days in the box. On his return to the Commando his libido raised its ugly head once again but this time it was a pair of plastic water wings that bore the brunt of affections. Unfortunately the DC’s wife happened to be looking out of her kitchen window at the time. An RL rocked up to collect him up and he spent 28 Days in the box. He returned to the Commando where yet again his libido raised its ugly head but this time it was with a non-consenting chicken. An RL rocked up to collect him. There is no truth in the rumour that the resulting flatty chicken was the model for the Support Commando badge.

The Lucky Officer or was he

At one time when the Commando was based for quite a lengthy period at Grand Reef one of the officers managed to spend a fair amount of time in the bright lights of Umtali. Having the natural charm of those of the officer class he soon acquired a coterie of three attractive damsels. Playing the busy warrior to the hilt he arranged to spend different nights with each of them, telling them that the nights he couldn’t see them he was on ops. This worked well for a while, but Umtali was a small town and the girls were all friends who managed to put two and two together so to speak. Anyway on the one fateful night as he opened the door to the one girl’s flat, no doubt whistling with joy at what lay ahead he was astonished and dismayed to see all three waiting for him. He went back to camp somewhat chastened and unfulfilled-just like the rest of us.

Tea for Two

Another ploy for 2 Commando guys to spend time in female company but at the same time earn money was to escort middle age ladies to tea at Barbour’s, Sanders or Meikles on a Saturday. The ouens got paid for being polite young men and the women got to show their friends that they could still attract hard, bronzed young men. We will leave it there for now...

Drugs

All the Commandos had their share of recreational drug users or dagga rookers as we knew them. It went with the territory and in most cases was harmless. 2 Commando had a Company Sergeant Major called Geordie Butler. He was quite a bit older than most of the others in the unit and was a stickler for proprietary and made sure the Commando area always looked spick and span. You know, rocks painted white, grass always mowed, flower beds neat and well-watered etc. To ensure this standard was maintained Geordie used to get the Troopies on extras to water the gardens etc. and keep them neat. He may have been a bit surprised at the vigor that these Troopies undertook the keeping of the flower beds but he was too old school to realise that many of the green bushes were actually dagga plants and that the Troopies were carefully tending to their crop under his protection.

Rock and Roll

Pat Hill and Tufty Bate decided to go into Kariba for a few quiet jugs of ale and decided that the Cutty Sark Hotel should be the lucky recipient of their custom. Just as they were about to leave after a few jugs, two coach loads of tourists rocked up. As the newcomers ranged from 17 to 70 the two men decided it would be remiss of them not to help the hotel management in extending hospitality. Around 2100 and after a few more quiet jugs the intrepid officers decided to liven up the party so they went into the dining room and casually picked up a Piano, carried it back to the bar where Pat sat down to tickle the ivories. Not to be outdone, Tufty found himself a bongo drum and now the party started to swing.

At 2230 the usual police patrol came around to ensure that the bars closed on time. The patrol was shanghaied, given a drink and told to belt up. Luckily the District Commissioner happened to be on the premises and he issued a late license to 2400 on the back of a cigarette box.

At midnight another police patrol arrived, was hauled in, given drinks, told to belt up and the DC issued yet another late license, once again, like the first, on the back of a cigarette box. The party continued to four in the morning at which time the hotel manager and his wife produced a superb meal of which everyone partook.

Tufty and Pat made their solemn way back to the camp at Charara just as the sun was peeking over the hills. The subalterns gave them a guard of honour, an ice cold beer each and put them to bed.

Lewis, Aust and the Observation Point

In 1973, Brian Lewis’ younger brother Clive was posted to 2 Commando as one of the first National Serviceman. The Battalion was still performing Border Control duties and young Clive was posted to Commando HQ as a signaler.

Shortly after his joining the Commando was deployed on a bush trip. However, Clive was a rather miffed at not being allowed to go on patrol, and instead found himself doing the early hour shift as radio operator, in the signals tent.

One of the patrols reported seeing a whole load of tracks heading inland. The camp was put on high alert and Clive was deployed as part of a three man squad on OP/relay duty. They were dropped by chopper on top of a huge granite Gomo called Chirambakadoma which was a land mark used by the “terr”s as a beacon on which to march toward.

After the four days and with six to go Clive was bored stiff, so on day five he thought it was time to liven things up. He alerted the next relay station and all call signs to the fact that he could spot a “very long line of twinkling lights” that looked like small orange glows, which were stationary at first but then moved. He gave such a convincing account, even estimating that it could be as many as 50/60 gooks heading toward his Gomo and just east of the 2 Commando base, that the radio operator back at 2 Commando HQ, decided it was serious enough to warrant rousing Charlie Aust from his slumbers, who then sprinted to the signals room and radioed Clive to get exact details.

After some questions Aust informed Clive that he was calling in choppers and was getting all the sticks to stand by for immediate uplift. It was at this moment that Clive decided to come clean and told Aust it was meant to be a prank for the guys on the relay station, as he was bored but that it had just got out of hand. He finished off with a rather lame “I am sorry, Sir”.

Charlie Aust was so “pissed off” he sent for Brian Lewis who received a royal bollocking for having such a wanker of a brother, and that brother or not Clive was being sent to DB at first light. True to his word Charlie Aust called in a Chopper, Clive was uplifted from the OP, charged and an RL rocked up to collect him up.

Charlie “Hotfoot” Davies

Charlie served in 10 Troop back in the late 60s. At the time of this story he had just finished cleaning his rifle when he inadvertently pulled the trigger and shot his toe off. He started hopping madly around on one foot with both hands clutching the bleeding foot-and screaming like a banshee as he rotated around the posse. His troop officer at the time was Pat Armstrong who, in a wonderful displays of compassion and leadership and probably due to the fact that Charlie could no longer count to 20, decided not to send Charlie to the box. As a sign of the compassion from his fellow Troopies Charlie was given the sobriquet Hotfoot.

Lovemore and Langton

No story of 2 Commando can be complete without the mention of the two batmen, Lovemore and Langton. It is thought that Lovemore joined the RLI, right at its inception and Langton at the age of about 18. Lovemore was definitely with RLI when it went to the Congo border as I remember him telling us about it. In fact Lovemore had been a General’s batman between 1949 and 1953. So respected was Lovemore that at times he went on patrol and even stood the odd sentry duty if the Commando was short of men on the ground. On one occasion Lovemore and Langton were responsible for the capture of two terrorists. Lovemore could mimic the voice of the CSM and many a rookie was fooled by being told to fall in only to find no one there. Derry McIntyre tells the beautiful story of the two in his book Diamonds from the Rough and I shall quote it now.

The RLI put on a Tattoo at Glamis Stadium in 1971 to encourage recruiting and boost public morale and confidence in their army. 2 Commando was tasked with mock anti-terrorist camp attack. While 2 Commando were practicing their attack, I was in my office at the rather dreary duties on my desk, when there was a knock at the door. In came my old batman, Lovemore and his mate, Langton. Lovemore wished to speak to me about the show and specifically about the scene of the attack on the terrorists. Lovemore objected to the fact that one of the Troopies was acting the part of the terrorist “because white men can’t die like black men, Sah. Watch this.”

Lovemore suddenly snapped to attention and shouted, “Langton! Die for the Boss!” To my absolute astonishment, Langton then jumped high in the air and came down nose first on the cement office floor. I was speechless. Lovemore took this silence to signify that I was not impressed so he said, in a fair imitation of the RSM, “Again Langton! And put some life into your dying, this time!”

Another massive leap into the air and Langton landed on his head again. He lay twitching on the floor so realistically that until he got slowly to his feet I was really quite concerned. “Okay, boss, have we got the job?” asked Lovemore, rather worried that they hadn’t made the grade. I weakly agreed that they could be the terrorists.

The OC of 2 Commando, Pat Hill, was far from happy but eventually agreed-“only because they are 2 Commando batmen.” But, as he usually did, Pat managed to get his own back. At the grand Finale, 2 Commando marched past the Royal Box where I stood next to Prime Minister Ian Smith and gave a smart “Eyes right!”-and the last two men in the Commando, with the their terrorist AK’s on their shoulders, smart as paint, were Lovemore and Langton, marching like the good old soldiers they had always been, giving eyes right to the Prime Minister. They had more than earned their place in the Tattoo and march-past. I was as proud of them as I was of any of my Troopies.”

Thieves

I need to address the serious misconception that 2 Commando were a bunch of thieves-it’s just not true. Okay sure on my last bush trip I was losing clothes left, right and centre but after a short discussion with Lovemore and the exchange of some banknotes the situation was rectified and I left with more kit than I went in with. So at worst it could be construed as a gentle redistribution of wealth amongst brothers of war. I mean even the fact that my Troop Officer was walking around in my PT shorts can be put down to the fog of war that surrounds all young subalterns at first and it is perfectly natural to believe that he mistook my surname Marsh for his, which was Seaton-Rogers, perfectly understandable. But 2 Commando were not responsible for Grand Larceny on a major scale like the other Commandos. 1 Commando stole a chopper, 3 Commando unsuccessfully tried to steal a Dakota at Buffalo Range and a sergeant in Support Commando stole a police car of all things. Really only 2 Commando could be regarded as Saintly in this respect.

Civvy Street

I would also like to spend a little time on three Diamonds who went on to greater things in civilian life after leaving 2 Commando

Wayne Furphy

Wayne joined 2 Commando as OC 7 Troop in June 1978. He was sent on Para course at New Sarum and quickly learnt how to exit the Dak without counting rivets (he counted all the rivets down the side of the Dak on his first jump) and why to avoid a bad landing, called a Head-Arse-Head-Hospital landing. Wayne tells of some classic landings in 2 Commando with Danny Danielson shouting “move the lorries” before he landed in one on a “fun jump” leaving all the ouens falling about with laughter, except Danny! Another Troopie landed on the back of a cow, with another doing a Para roll with both his feet in a pot of Sadza! He spent 13 months with the Commando and believes the time spent there gave him the edge over his colleagues in the business world. Wayne learnt some important lessons whilst with 2 Commando namely:

Don’t attempt a number 2 when wearing a jumpsuit, which one of my fellow troop commanders did unfortunately on an external in Mozambique!

Don’t assume that the boss cannot hear you when you are communicating via a relay!

Don’t assume normal people can understand what language you are speaking when you re-join Civvy Street after one or more years in the RLI.

Once back in Civvy Street try not take cover and dive into the nearest gutter when a passing car backfires and women don’t want to jump into bed as part of the first date!

Wayne joined Arthur Andersen’s Management Information Consulting Division in Johannesburg and became the Company MD when it was re branded as Accenture. He retired from Accenture in 2008 and now runs a venture capital business with his daughter.

Graham Roy

Graham was a National Servicemen from Intake 164 and served in 2 Commando during the hottest part of the war -1979. He left Zimbabwe early after independence and qualified as an architect. He became a property developer of business parks in Johannesburg before turning a side-line into another very successful business and is now the leading supplier for Hewlett Packard industrial strength printers in South Africa. He owns a Beechcraft Baron C58 which he flies around the country. He is a great sponsor of RLI RA events.

Ray Mordt

Ray served as an MAG gunner in 6 Troop in 1975/76 with Intake 146 before being posted to the physical training unit in RLI. In addition to being a Springbok wing he played for Rhodesia, Transvaal and Northern Transvaal. He has a successful engineering business and is still involved with rugby today.

RLIRA

2 Commando ouens are still providing benefit into the regiment or rather the Regimental Association and in this way I would like to mention the following for the support and hard work they have put into the RLI RA.

Brian Lewis Granny Johnson Jimmy Swan Maurice Gabriel Simon Godley

Finale

Life doesn’t get much more basic than that of an infantryman in a war zone. In this environment, when water is so important that all else fades into insignificance and a piece of flat soft ground under a tree can make you feel like you are in the Ritz strong bonds are forged that defy the passage of time.

It also makes for humorous situations that at the time might not have seemed so. An example of this is the story Brian Lewis tells about his great friend Ed Kaschula. As Brian Lewis recalls: It was late 1974. We had been on patrol for four days in the Mount Darwin Area and were heading toward a nearby river nearby to replenish our very low water supply, when we were instructed to join up with Sgt Eddie Kaschula stick. Once we had RV’d with Ed it was decided that Eds stick would take all the water bottles and collect fresh water for both sticks. About an hour later we heard rapid firing, a couple of explosions, and then the words “contact”- “contact” – “contact” over our radio. Eddie’s stick had walked onto the exact same spot where a group of 14 Ters were collecting / drinking water. An immediate skirmish ensued and Eddie and his guys accounted for eight of the enemy before the others bomb shelled. A follow up took place but nothing further developed.

During a smoke break, I asked Ed if we could have our water bottles, but was met with a load of swear words - and told “Lewis I was getting my Arse shot off and all you are worried about is water.” I replied that we had been without water for over 2 days and that Ed’s guys had promised, but had carelessly dropped our water bottles during the running skirmish.

When everything was all over the guys were uplifted back to camp, I reminded Ed that a 1033 would be issued against 6 Troop for the replacement of five water bottles. Needless to say I cannot repeat the words that Ed used.

Folks, it has been a privilege for me to give this talk and I hope you have enjoyed it. 2 Commando was the best Commando to me because that was the one I served in. To quote Mike Rich on his time in 2 Commando “I spent 18 months on what seemed like one endless Fireforce deployment with those amazing guys - and courageous does not begin to describe them. The quality of the RLI soldier is rightfully heralded and I will never forget absolutely how superb they all were. My time as an RLI Officer in 2 Commando will always remain one of my greatest achievements”. The most important thing is that we were all part of 1 RLI and no commando could be complete without the others. Even though we are old, our legs are skinny, our butts flatter than our stomachs used to be and it looks like we are carrying our webbing internally, we can still stand tall and say I served with the RLI.

I would now like us to remember those fine young men of 2 Commando who died serving their country and thus didn’t live long enough to achieve more in their lives. However, they have achieved immortality through the ultimate sacrifice. Please can you all stand to attention and bow your heads for a few moments silence as we remember those who died too young and were denied the joy of a long life.

Mama, take this badge off of me

I can’t wear it anymore

It is getting dark, too dark to see I feel I am knocking on Heaven’s door

Mama put my rifle in the ground

I can’t shoot them anymore

That long black cloud is coming down

I feel I am knocking on Heaven’s door

We are all travelling in the footsteps of those who went before. We will all be reunited on a sunny shore when the Saints go marching in. Men of 2 Commando and the Battalion I salute you.

______

Shorty Shoultz

Posted by Stu Grover.

Michelle Jacqueline Shoultz I want to tell you about your favourite uncle. This is to the best of my recollection. Feb 12th 1969 on patrol Cpl Shorty Shoultz, (Lovely Uncle) Keith Gower, Bez Bezuidenhout, Bill Izzard, Jack Peters and Freddie Van Niekerk and self, these were the days before we had SA webbing, or sleeping bags, comms were not so good either, and we did not have troop medics or medical bags, just a field dressing, the same as they issued in the 2nd world war. At approx. 20h00 I was shot in the leg, I remember there was quite a bit of confusion in the beginning, but Cpl Shoultz got things under control, due to weather they could not casevac me, during the whole night your uncle kept reassuring me that it was only a minor flesh wound, to such an extent I really believed I would be at the disco on Saturday. When I finally got to Salisbury General and saw the wound a couple of days later, I went into shock, I was told by the specialists that it was a wonder I had not bled to death, it was not a wonder, this was due to the your uncle and the guys in the troop who looked after me. It was a very long night but I never felt alone, although I am sure all the guys helped me that night, I know some poor blokes had to keep climbing a kopje to get radio comms, but my memory is always of how much your uncle and Bez helped me that night, there was even a bit of humour but the main thing was the genuine concern of Cpl Shoultz. After a long spell in hospital and then recuperation followed by rehab and then I was transferred to the quarter masters store, I lost touch with all the guys and have never had an opportunity of thanking them for what they did for me. There is no doubt in my mind that your uncle saved my life that night, not that everyone will say that this was a good thing, but to me he is and has always been my hero, he gave me my life, I have a fantastic wife, 3 incredible sons and 3 amazing grandsons, and a lot of genuine friends, all due to your uncle, my hero. It has taken a long time but modern technology now allows me the opportunity of saying, to Cpl Shorty Shoultz, Bez and all the guys of 10 troop, I want to thank you for all for what you did and for me and for giving me the chance to live a good life. Words can never express the gratitude I feel and the word Thank you seems so inadequate, but it is all there is, and so to you all a very big thank you.

______

Mark Hugo Derek Selby

5th December 1976 One day is much the same as the one before… Especially when the rains continue to fall…. Clouds… Dark…. Turbulent….. Low-to-the-ground…. Flashing bolts of lightning… Followed by the rumbling of thunder…. Most… Afternoons this bush trip… So far…. This keeping the choppers… Squatting under hardened shelters…. The Ters… Free to roam…. Causing havoc…. Wherever they chose to strike… Fire Force unable to reach out from Mt Darwin…. To hammer them into the graves… They so surely seek… By entering and causing mayhem within the borders of Rhodesia…..

The Ters…. Emboldened by the continual rains…. Rapidly growing emerald green bush grass…. Trees pushing out new leaves…. Like a sausage machine gone wild… Creeping up from the sodden earth…. New vines…. Climb and entangle the already bursting tree lines….. Older vines… Surge ever upwards…. Entwining new branches in their constant climb towards the ultimate goal… The precious suns life-Giving Rays…. Push out more new leaves… To harvest the limited sun’s rays….. This combination… Turning the once brown… Dusty landscape… Into an emerald green paradise of new life…..

Further cementing this belief of total freedom of movement…. Is the low cloud base…. Covers most of the higher hill features…. Thus preventing the hidden RSF observation posts… Clear vision… Of the lands below….

Everyone in the Fire Force base camp knows…. The storms will break…. The sun will shine…. The siren will eventually sound out…. It’s all a matter of time….

To maintain the cutting edge…. We continue with morning rituals…. During brief breaks in the weather… Jungle lane practice takes place…. Scores noted…. Mistakes….. Even one…. You Dead…. Keeps the red alert situation awareness levels… Sky High….. No need for the senior NCO’s to point out the obvious…. We all hardened… Combat troops…. Know the score… Try to make sure… The next time… We will do better…. Much better… The incentive…. Live one more day longer…..

With all of this disjointed activity…. The confinement to barrack rooms…. Creates more and more wild stories…. Mostly flights of fancy… From the lads… All huddled around beds… Books are devoured… Exchanged… New novels… Entered… Wilbur Smith…. John Gordon Davies… Daniel Carnie…. Clearly the most favored…. Stories of far away places…. Distant times… War…. Adventure… Romance…. All raced through…. With so much down time…. Breakfast…. Lunch… Diner…. The only regular interruptions to daily life…. That and evening guard duties…. Radio watches…..

We see in the night…. Major Pat Armstrong… Being summoned to the radio operations room…. Cpl Keith Locke…. Has initiated an ambush in the Kandeya TTL….. Seemed to have wounded a Ter in the ambush…. Will be sweeping the area at first light…. Requested Force Force… As the group was of reasonable size…. If possible he would only commence sweeping once Fire Force…. In particular… K-Car…. Overhead….. All this information… we only hear very early the following morning….

Major Pat Armstrong…. Liaises with the Air Force… Brings them up to speed of events… Arranges the choppers at first light…. The weather hopefully holding off… Remaining stable enough to fly…..

With the last guard… Instructed to awaken the on duty stop groupings…. Cooks…. Extra early…. Breakfast arranged before first light…. Stops 1 – 4 given warning orders… To be on standby… Should the situation… Enable choppers to fly…. Plan that they would…. Never helps in the sleeping department…. Extra pressure… Knowing tomorrow… Could hold serious consequences….

Sunrise at 05:39…. The cooks up at 04:30…. Prepare and serve stop one through to stops four their meal…. Tea…. As they collect maps of the triggered ambush site…. The clouds…. Remain just holding off…. Low… Grey…. Mist curling off the low grounds… Whisk…. Tendrils…. Swirling up into the skies… Creating pathways of cloud and mist…. In the skies….

05:45…. The air is filled with the sounds of turbo jet engines… Blades cracking as the pilots…. Bring the 5 ship Armada…. Out of the cloud filled skies…. To land on the Mt Darwin tarmac road….. Major Armstrong leaping anxiously into K-Car… Clutching his map case… Liberated Folding butt AK…. Stops one through to four climb aboard their G-Cars…. Lead by K-Car… Revolutions…. Increase… As collective sticks are eased upwards… Nose tilting forwards…. The choppers leap into the cloudy skies…. Banking 90 degrees North… Soon vanish into the grey cloudy unknown… Land Tail stood down… As this potential action… Has a rain potential time line of less than 3 hours…. Before the heavens could re-open…. This a test the chopper pilots…. Not wishing to encounter….

The rest of the Commando now proceed with normal daily routine…. By 06:59…. The clouds are beginning to drip… Rain…. Best described as irritating drizzle…. We all make for the barrack rooms and continue with our reading…. General discussions…. Not much else to do….

10:37 with the rains now a little stronger… We hear the choppers returning…. Looking out we watch as the choppers…. Noses tilting up… Skids and wheels reaching for the ground… Blades… Vaporizing the rain droplets… Slashing them into mist…. Which shows as airflows being driven down… Curling on violent impact with the ground… Swirling off back up into the air…. The stop groups… Get out and make their way back to the fire force camp….

Looking at their body language…. Tells a story without a word having been uttered…. Shoulders slumped… Heads down… Grim faced… They walk into the basecamp… Head straight for their barrack room…. Sounds of…. Shouting and throwing of equipment… Crashing into the concrete flooring…. Emanating from within the room…

Something has gone terribly wrong… We all make our way… In groups… To see our mates….

Extracted from Glenn Seymore Hall….. “The Fallen”

6th December 1976 – Corporal Keith Peter LOCKE, Support Commando, 1st Battalion, RLI, KIA. Died from gunshot wounds , in a contact, Western Kandeya TTL, Mt Darwin, Op Hurricane, aged 22 years. The previous night, a group of ZANLA CTs walked into an ambush of Support Commando troops under Cpl Keith Locke, but only one CT was wounded. At first light, and in drizzling rain, the patrol started a follow-up, moving through thick bush where it was suspected the CTs had gone to ground. A fire fight quickly ensued and the K-Car commander ordered his troops on the ground to move forward. A lone CT in a well-concealed position, waited for the troops to get very close before opening fire. Keith was shot and killed instantly, and L/Cpl J. Fourie badly wounded. Fourie, however, his thoughts with the other casualty, lobbed grenades at the CT position before withdrawing, actions which would earn him the BCR. The CT was eventually flushed out and killed. Keith was cremated in Bulawayo.

Recover quickly Janie….. RIP Keith Locke….. Thank you for your Brave and Selfless Service holding the thinning Green & White line……

A shocking day for the members of Support Commando… We had not paid the full cost of war… since 24th February 1976… when Gerald Parkin RIP was killed in action….. This bringing home… To all who weren’t sure…. We were indeed mortal

______For those with some Scottish blood! Here is an actual sign posted at a golf club in Scotland:

1. BACK STRAIGHT, KNEES BENT, FEET SHOULDER WIDTH APART. 2. FORM A LOOSE GRIP. 3. KEEP YOUR HEAD DOWN! 4. STAY OUT OF THE WATER. 5. TRY NOT TO HIT ANYONE. 6. IF YOU ARE TAKING TOO LONG, LET OTHERS GO AHEAD OF YOU. 7. DON'T STAND DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF OTHERS. 8. QUIET PLEASE...WHILE OTHERS ARE PREPARING. 9. DON'T TAKE EXTRA STROKES. 10. WELL DONE.. NOW, FLUSH THE URINAL, GO OUTSIDE, AND TEE OFF! .

MALAGA REUNION

One forgets as we work and socialise in our own immediate areas and countries what a truly international association the RLI has become. A typical example of this was a recent and opportunist get together that took place in a smart tapas bar in the Plaza Mayor just outside Malaga on Friday 16th June.

This was mainly brought about by the visit to the Costa del Sol of Richard (Granny) Johnson (2 Cdo) and his family on holiday from Brisbane. There they stayed for a few days with Roger Buckley (1 Cdo) who now owns a quaint boutique hotel in Benalmadena Pueblo further down the coast between Torremolinos and Fuengirola. Further joined by Alan Dongworth and Fraser Brown (also of 2 Cdo), who both own summer holiday homes in the region, completed this small gathering.

One would have hoped that Granny and Fraser having been accompanied by their respective wives Simone (Bulawayo) and Debbie (Salisbury) would have fallen sway to their moderating effect on beer consumption. Sadly disappointed the ladies wandered off to shop and left us to it. Disgraceful at your age I hear you all say.

One would also imagine that a gathering of 3 members of the same Commando (and the same recruit intake) who hadn’t all been together for 40 odd years talk would have been abounded with war stories. But no, this Pom was subjected to tales by the other 3 of sporting triumphs and rivalry between Plumtree and Guinea Fowl in their younger, fitter and slimmer days, and of course the charms of Roosevelt schoolgirls of which my wife was once one!

A great afternoon was had by all and many thanks for the very stylish Aus & NZ RLI Association golf shirts which Granny provided for the occasion and which stood up admirably to the copious spillages of tapas and beer they were subjected to.

Until the next time ouens, go well, good health and safe travels to everyone.

Fraser & Debbie Brown.

Andalusia, Spain.

______THE END

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