ssaa ssoollddiieerr - sandfssaa ssoollddiieerr the official monthly magazine of the sa department of...

SA SOLDIERSA SOLDIERThe official monthly magazine of the SA Department of Defence

From the Editor's desk

Letters:to the Editor

News fromabroad

Minister Sisulu visited ASB Western Cape

2010 the year of the SANDF

SA Navy geared and ready for FIFA 2010 World Cup

Opening of Parliament

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19 Chief of the SA Army awards excellence

Chief Human Resources prestige gala event

SAMHS committed to support FIFA 2010 World Cup

The Digital Map Index of Africa is now available

Turning promises into prospects

Service delivery with no excuses

SA Army planned to bemore sufficient and effective

Bring courage in the midst of hopelessness

Remembering the sacrifices of the fallen

Preparing a combat ready force

A display of air extravaganza

MSDS recruits report to commence training

SA Navy geared and ready for FIFA 2010 World Cup

Maritime Reaction Squadron reveals its Forward DeployableBase

He earned the right to lead

The world is waiting for you

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STREET ADDRESSDefence Headquartersc/o Nossob and Boeing StErasmuskloofPRETORIA

POSTAL ADDRESSSA SOLDIERPrivate Bag X158PRETORIA, 0001

TELEPHONETel: 012 355 6341 Fax: 012 355 6399email: [email protected]: www.sasoldier.mil.za

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor: Ms Nelda Pienaar

Deputy Editor: Mr Lufuno Netshirembe

Editorial Staff: Mr Kgabo Mashamaite S Sgt Lebogang TlhaoleSgt Elias MahumaCpl Arnaus Rakoma

CONTRIBUTIONS: Although all possible care is takenwith articles, the editorial staff cannot take any responsibility forlost articles and photographs.

REPRODUCTION, PRINTING &DISTRIBUTION:Coordinating Concepts cc630 Jamestown Street Elardus Park, Pretoria, 0181Tel: 012 345 6408Fax: 086 515 2185/6/7email:[email protected]

Text Editor: Mr Eugene Muller

Translation Directorate LanguageConsultant: Services

Distribution: Mr Jim Tshabalala Tel: 012 355 6341

Layout & Design: Mr Werner v/d Westhuizen

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EDITORIAL BOARDMr S. Dlamini (Chairperson)Brig Gen M.M. Visser Col S.P. ZeemanCapt (SAN) M.J. Josias

Capt (SAN) Cpln L.W.MsenganaMs N. Pienaar Maj J.V. du ToitCdr C.E. Khumalo

Ms J. RenderLt S.E. Segone Mr L.R.M. Netshirembe(Secretary)

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www.dod.mil.za

www.dod.mil.za

2005 - Winner of the Government Communicator of the Year Award (GCIS).2005 - Winner of the National Ubungcweti Award (GCIS).

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SA SOLDIER is published monthly - 12 issues per year. The views and opinionsexpressed by the authors of articles are those of the authors and do not neces-sarily represent those of the Department of Defence (DOD). Acceptance andpublication of advertorial and advertising matter in SA SOLDIER does not con-stitute DOD endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services thereindescribed. The DOD does not assume any liability in respect of any claims madein advertisements.

COPYRIGHT: No article or picture in this magazine may be reproduced withoutthe written consent of the Editor.

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M A R C H 2 0 1 0 S A S O L D I E R

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For the latest news on defence matters in South Africa, visit our website at: www.sasoldier.mil.za

FRONT COVER: Members of the SA Air Force wearing their new summerceremonial dress for the first time during the recently held SA Air Force DayParade. Read all about this event on pages 22 and 23. (Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma)

Above: One of the recruits for the January 2010 MSDS Intake, MilfordMaswanganye of Mamelodi, reads an SA Soldier magazine. (Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma)

message


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From the Editor's desk

ot only are we celebrating Human Rights'Day on 21 March, but South Africans alsocelebrated on 11 February the 20th anniver-sary of the release of Mr Nelson Mandela. Hewas the first democratically elected Presidentof South Africa and our first Commander-in-Chief in a democratic South Africa. Thisremarkable day coincided with the Opening of

Parliament in Cape Town. This important annual occa-sion made history as it was conducted in the evening forthe first time. Read all about this auspicious event with itsmilitary flair on pages 16 and 17.

The SA Air Force also celebrated its 90th anniversarywith an SA Air Force Day Parade in which its memberson parade showed off for the first time their new summerceremonial dress. Later, talking to the media the Chief ofthe SA Air Force, Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano, mentioned thatthe SA Air Force was constantly operating at a high levelto ensure safe airspace during the FIFA 2009Confederations Cup and that it was an excellent prepara-tion for the FIFA 2010 World Cup. "We are ready to pro-tect the World Cup games," said Lt Gen Gagiano. Read allabout the happenings of this festive day on pages 22 and 23.

The whole Department of Defence will render supportduring the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Maritime security isone of the core responsibilities of the SA Navy, and will bethe focus of its involvement in the FIFA 2010 World Cup.It will perform various coastal patrols and underwatersecurity exercises. Turn to page 15 to read about the assis-tance of the SA Navy in respect of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

The SA Military Health Service (SAMHS) is ready toplay its part in supporting the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Asa key role-player of the National Health Care System theSAMHS will form part of the National Health OperationsCentre and will support the National Department ofHealth during the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Read moreabout the commitments of the SAMHS on pages 38 and 40.

With the FIFA 2010 World Cup upon us and timehurtling towards 11 June remember to pause a momentand take time to acquaint yourself with the lyrics of theNational Anthem of South Africa, if you do not knowthem by now. The lyrics and their phonetic pronunciationare published on page 42 to make them easier to articulate.

Nelda PienaarEditor

Nulenyanga kaNdasa ngomhlaka 21, singabantu baseNingizimu neAfrica asibungazi kuphela ilanga Lamalungelo Abantu (HumanRights' Day), kepha sizoqhubeka nokugubha iminyaka engamashumiamabili (20) uMnuz Nelson Mandela akhululwa ejele ngomhlaka 11kuNhlolanja.ngo 1990. Waba nguMongameli wokuqala ngaphansikombuso wentando yeningi kuleli futhi noMkhuzi woMbutho wezeMpiwaseNingizimu ne Africa ekhululekile.

Ukugujwa kwalolusuku oluyingqopha mlandu kuqondaniswe nokuvulwakwaminyaka yonke kwePhalamede eKapa. Okwenze lomgubho walonyaka wehlukeukuba wenziwe ngesikhathi sakusihlwa, okube ngokokuqala qha emlandweni.Funda okuningi ngalengqophamlandu yomcimbi kanye nokuviliyela kwezoMbuthowezeMpi kumakhasi 16 kanye 17.

Uphiko lwezoMoya loMbutho wokuVikelwa kweZwe (SA Air Force) nalo lugubheiminyaka engamashumi asisishiyagalolunye (90) lwabunjwa. Lomcimbi wokugu-jwa kwaleminyaka luhlonishwe ngokuviliyela kwamasotsha ezomoya, obekuham-bisana nokukhangisa kokuqala ngomfaniswano wasehlobo wemicimbi wezomoya.Ekhuluma nabezindaba, uMkhuzi wophiko lwezoMoya uLt Gen Carlo Gagiano,uthe basebenze ngokukhulu ukuzikhandla nokucophelela ukuqinisa ezokuphephaemoyeni ngesikhathi somqhudelwano we FIFA weZwekazi lase Africa ngonyaka ka2009 (FIFA Confederations Cup, kanti futhi konke kumi ngommumo ukuqinisekisaezokuphepha emoyeni ngomgqudelwano wendebe yo mhlaba (FIFA World Cup2010). "Sizimisele ukuvikela lemidlalo yeNdebe yoMhlaba," kusho uLt GenGagiano. Funda kabanzi ngenjabulo eyeza nalolusuku kusukela kwikhasi 22 kuya 23.

UMnyango wezokuPhepha wakuleli (Department of Defence) uzokwelekelela kwe-zokuphepha ngesikhathi seNdebe yoMhlaba. Ukuphepha kwezamanzi kuyingxenyeyomsebenzi woPhiko lwezeMpi lwezaManzi (SA Navy) futhi luzogxila kulom-sebenzi ngesikhathi seNdebe yoMhlaba. Loluphiko luzokwenza neminye imisebenziexhumene nokuqapha ugu kanye nokuzivivinya kwezokuphepha ngaphansi kwamanzi. Ukufunda kabanzi ngalokhu, vula ikhasi 15 ukuze uthole ngokusekelakwendebe yomhlaba kwezophiko lwa Manzi.

Kanti nophiko lwezeMpilo lombutho wezokuvikela lwaseNingizimu ne Africa(SAMHS), lumi ngazozombili ukuze ludlale indima yalo ekusizeni kokusingathwakweNdebe yoMhlaba. Ngenxa yokubaluleka kwaloluphiko lwezempilokukazwelonke, loluphiko luzoba ingxenye yohlelo lokusebenza kwezeMpilo kaZwelonke futhi luphinde lusekele uMnyango wezeMpilo kaZwe lonke ngesikhathisaleNdebe yoMhlaba. Funda kabanzi ngesiqinisekiso sokusekela lemidlalo soPhikolwezeMpilo lokuVikela iZwe (SAMHS) kwi khasi 38 kanye no 40.

Imidlalo kanobhutshuzwayo yendebe yohlaba isisemnyango kanti nesikhathisesisondele kakhulu kumhlaka 11 kuNhlangula kubalulekile ukuba sithathe ithutshana lokuzijwayeza namagama eculo leSizwe, uma ungawazi. Amagamakanye nokuhlelwa kwawo ngefonetiki kutholakala ekhasini 4, ukuze kube lula ukuwaphimisa ngendlela.

Nelda PienaaruMhleli

* Translation (isiZulu) by Manelisi Ndaba.

Ezisuka kuMhleli

K

A P R I L 2 0 0 7 S A S O L D I E R

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letters to the editor


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COMMUNITY DAY AND CHRISTMAS LUNCHThe SA Army Intelligence Formationheld its annual community day andChristmas lunch on 12 November 2009.

There was excitement in the air as wewere ready to visit our community anddo what we love doing - interacting withthe people, and especially the children,watching their faces when we give themour Christmas gifts of food, clothing andtoys, and entertaining them with ourvery own choir and using the opportuni-ty for praise and worship.

The SA Army Intelligence FormationHQ, School of Tactical Intelligence and 1Tactical Intelligence Regiment togetherwith Thales formed a considerable con-voy. With headlights on, we were escort-ed by the local Military Police to sevenorganisations in Potchefstroom, Ikagengand Promosa. This year we added the

Winning letter

R200-00 prize for the best letterSA SOLDIER welcomes letters to the Editor. Short letters are more likely to be pub-lished, and all letters may be edited for reasons of style, accuracy or space limita-tions. Letters should preferably be typewritten and double-spaced. All letters mustinclude the writer's full name, address and home telephone number. The volume ofletters we receive makes individual acknowledgement impossible. Please sendyour letters to: The Editor, SA SOLDIER Letters, Private Bag X158, Pretoria, 0001.Letters may also be faxed to (012) 355-6399 or sent via email to [email protected] would like to hear your comments or ideas, particularly about matters affectingmembers of the Department of Defence. Regrettably, anonymous letters cannot beanswered officially or published - Editor.

Thakaneng Project for streetchildren to our programme.We were amazed at thegood work this project wasaccomplishing. The streetchildren are given a place ofsafety, food and clothing.They are even educated suf-ficiently so that they can beintegrated into normalschools. Thales gave eachchild a present - a soccer ball- to keep them fit and off thestreets and to encourage the2010 FIFA World Cup fever!They were also givenenough sweets to last tillnext year, as well as plentyof clothing and food. Thechildren in turn entertainedus with cheerful song and

dance. We also visited die Dienssentrumvir Bejaardes, Ikageng Day Care Centrefor the Aged, Seralethleng Home for theAged, Kopanong Club for the Aged,Happy Hearts Centre for the Aged andAmaphelo Hospice for Children Livingwith HIV. At each venue we were warm-ly welcomed and cheerfully entertained.Our visit meant more to all of them thanthe gifts that we bestowed on them. Eventhe little children of Amaphelo sang and

LET US SHARE THE KNOWLEDGEIt is true that knowledge is power.Through sharing knowledge life can bemuch easier to live. Knowledge is one ofthe tools that can be used to change theshape of the country. South Africa can beone of the civilized countries by sharingknowledge with others. To share knowl-edge is something cheap. It does notneed money to do it. Real leaders inSouth Africa are using this weapon ofsharing knowledge to develop theirorganisations. The big challenge is whensomeone who has knowledge leaves theorganisation. Production will drop withimmediate effect. That is when theorganisation could go insolvent.Training is one of the tools that can beused to share knowledge and indicateclearly what is expected of members, butunfortunately most leaders do not traintheir workers. How do you tell someone

that he is not doing the right job if you didnot train him?

Before a member can do any job he orshe must be given training, which willserve the same purpose as an inductionprogramme. It is shocking to find thatpeople do not want to share knowledgewith others because they want to be askedall the time when certain tasks have to bedone, which simply means that if they areabsent there is no progress. Others areafraid that if they share knowledge withother people, the very same people aregoing to take their posts or positions.Transforming and fast-tracking are pro-moting this negative behaviour becausepeople are afraid to be taken out of theircomfort zones. Others do not shareknowledge for a valid reason (to them-selves) but the Government does notshare these views; that if they resign they

will be called again as independent con-tractors to perform the same tasks asconsultants. If you do not want to shareknowledge with others, ask who trainedyou to be where you are today?Aggression and hatred are some of thereasons for not sharing knowledge, butwhy are such people aggressive and hat-ing others? It is frightening to see theresults.

The matter of not sharing knowledgewith others is delaying the developmentof South Africa. It must be clear that if wedo not share knowledge with others wedemoralise them and it is wrong. Somedo it purposely to prove the point that ifthey are not around, others cannot do thework. By not sharing knowledge there isno teamwork, but only individualism.To share knowledge is good because youare not going to die with your knowl-

Do not ever stop caring for our children.


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As South Africa celebrated its fifteenthyears of democracy in 2009, one had towonder if it had not been for educationwould it have been possible to reap thisreward we are enjoying, especially theyouth.

School visits is the tool used by theSANDF to expose the youth to the mili-tary environment and provide themwith information about possible careersin the SANDF. One such lucky schoolwas Naledi High School in Soweto; thelearners were taken to two militaryinstallations, namely the Air ForceGymnasium and 1 Military Hospital inThaba Tshwane, Pretoria.

The learners were merely curiousabout how they could be enlisted forBasic Military Training. "I want to knowwhat I must pass and with what per-centage so that I can join the militaryand realise my dream of being a pilot,"said Sibongile Goba, a Grade 11 learner.

The learners were taken to Air ForceGymnasium where they were welcomedby Maj Gen Dan Mofokeng, ChiefDefence Foreign Relations, who encour-aged them to stay committed to their

VIEWING MILITARY CAREERSstudies and be happy to get this oppor-tunity to visit the military bases. "Theschool visit is an outreach programmeestablished by the Department, becausethe SANDF belongs to the people andyou should dedicate yourselves tolearning more, not only about the mili-tary, but also about Governmentdepartments," said Maj Gen Mofokeng.

The learners had an opportunity toview 1 Military Hospital from theinside and to know more about the his-tory of the hospital and its future plans.Elliot Thlathegi, a Grade 12 learner, wassurprised at how huge the hospital wasand could not wait one day to work forour hospital as a male nurse. "From theoutside this hospital looks so small; Iam so happy that I got the opportunityto see it. When I pass my matric I willapply to join the military. Maybe oneday I will work at 1 Military Hospital,"said Elliot.

After a long day of learning aboutmilitary culture and career opportuni-ties, the learners had a great lunch cour-tesy of McDonalds. L Cpl MapuleRaphela, Pretoria

Fltr: Maj A. Smart (Officer Commanding), Lt M.B. Moloke (Second inCommand) and MWO H. Beyers. (Photo: Lourens Botha)

REMEMBRANCE DAY

edge and you will have contributed tobuild South Africa. It is also difficult formanagement to achieve its objectivesand to promote the core business oforganisations if such members are yoursubordinates. At the end of the day youdid not change people's lives, but youwere selfish.

We can overcome this by becomingreal people of South Africa. Leadersmust enforce teamwork and knowl-edge sharing. By not sharing knowl-edge it means that there is no co-opera-tion in your team and this needs to beaddressed immediately. Leaders mustavoid favouritism because that can con-tribute to not sharing knowledge. Aprogramme of sharing knowledgeneeds to be emphasised and monitoredstrictly. Lt P. Mlangeni, 6 ASU in AFB Bloemspruit

danced for us. They were amazing. MrJan Zoutendyk of Thales and our veryown Father Christmas handed out a giftto each excited child. For all of them thatgift would be the only Christmas giftthey would receive. Again it was reiter-ated that our visiting them meant morethan anything else.

On 14 November 2009 members ofeach organisation were invited to ourChristmas lunch for the aged at 1 Tac-tical Intelligence Regiment. They weretreated to a sumptuous Christmas. MrJan Zoutendyk of Thales, our mainsponsor, handed out a hamper of usefulgoodies for each guest. He was gratefulto be a part of our project and happy tobe able to contribute to the needy andthe aged. In his speech, Brig Gen JobMagasela said that he recognised theincredible role our aged played in soci-ety and admired their strength anddetermination to make society a betterplace. He pledged to continue his sup-port to the community on a more regu-lar basis. After all the formalities, wewere entertained by our Military SkillsDevelopment System (MSDS) Choir,which ended another successful eventwith the singing of our NationalAnthem. Maj Cheryl Essop, SA Army Intelligence Formation

Vrystaat Artillerie Regiment heldtheir annual Remembrance DayParade in Kroonstad on 8 November2009. This is a prestigious event for

the unit and two gunshots were firedat two minute intervals, with a GV1gun to commemorate our fallen comrades.

letters to the editor


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APPRECIATIONI want to express my deepest appre-ciation for the Season's Greetingsfrom the Minister of Defence andMilitary Veterans, Ms LindiweSisulu. The fact that the Minister hasappreciated me as a person, a sol-dier and a family man goes a longway towards boosting morale andengendering loyalty to the organisation.

I am sure that my appreciation isnot mine only, but that I share thesentiments of so many soldiers andcomrades out there in the variousServices. One lesson I hope many ofus who are in leadership will learnis that irrespective of all the chal-lenges that we have, one has toappreciate the work done by thesubordinates and not always criti-cize destructively.

So, in the sea of challenges thatwe face as an organisation and thewill-power shown by the Ministerin tackling them head-on, we appre-ciate the fact that she appreciatesour humble contributions to thesafety of our country, and thank herfor her warm Christmas Greetingson behalf of the Commander-in-Chief, Cabinet and Government,and I want to say the feeling ismutual. Chaplain NkosinathiNgesi, Military Academy

At times things happen in our lives thatwe cannot explain and we try to findthe cause, but we do not find it.

We often define our experiences asbad luck, misfortune, and unfairness inthe world we live in. We always lookfor someone or something to blame forour mistakes and for things we do nothave control over.

We therefore miss the opportunityto learn and grow from these unfortu-nate events.

Then comes the ultimate test ofone's faith when the ground you standon is shaken and all your knowledge ofright and wrong is challenged. All of asudden you lose your true self and youare defined by those around you.

WHAT I KNOW NOW …At times you feel like even God him-

self is far from you. But I have learnedthat that too is part of life. What I knowis that it is the bad experiences that makeyou grow.

It is all that pain and hurt that makeyou embrace your happy and joyfulmoments. It is all the failure and disap-pointments that give you hope andcourage to go even further.

It is all that anger and rage thatteaches you the power of forgivenessand letting go. It is all that fear that leadsyou to rock-solid faith.

If you are looking for a miracle …The miracle is you. Amn Zanele G.B.Shandu, 2 Squadron Command PostAssistant

Have you ever wondered if the little lamp you are hold-ing is really yours?

In a time when economic recession, global warming,incurable diseases, political turmoil, and social injusticesprevail we patiently wait and hope, … maybe tomorrowwill be better than today. But, by the way things are going,I really do not know.

No matter what our troubles, the sun always sets inthe evening giving rise to a new day.

Each day we have, whether good or bad, is a day thatthe Lord has made. We must rejoice and be glad in it. Yourlamp is your smile, your hopes, your dreams, your spirit.

The light you hold will light the way for others whenit gets dark. And when it gets dark, believe me, it getsreally dark.

So, do not hide your light under the shade, you neverknow who really needs it.

Yes! The little lamp is yours go out there, the lightbelongs on the hill. Let it shine! Cpl Cecilia Tseuoa, AFB Makhado

REFLECTION

If hope had a name, what would it be?If hope was a place you visited, wherewould it be? What would be the colourof hope? I call it Edna Prinsloo. At thetender age of thirteen years this re-markable young woman is facing thechallenge of living with cancer (leu-kaemia). As the child of a single parentthe situation is even more challenging,both financially and emotionally. Yet,against all odds, she remains positiveand happy and looks forward to thefuture with optimism and hope. AFB

THE COLOUR OF HOPEMakhado had the honour to host a visitfor Edna on 20 October 2009. She visitedthe different sections and units in thebase. It was heart-warming to see themanner in which she was received bythe different sections. The willingnessof our members to go the extra mile inhelping someone, even total strangers,or adopting someone into the AFBMakhado family even if it was just for afew hours, and putting a smile onsomeone's face, makes hope come alive.Cpl C. Tseuoa, AFB Makhado

Fltr: Col (Hon) Lazarus Zim, (Honorary Colonel of 2 FieldEngineer Regiment), Brig Gen Spinks Nobanda (GeneralOfficer Commanding SA Army Engineer Formation) and Maj Chippie Chipperinie (Acting Officer Commanding 2 FieldEngineer Regiment) at the gala event of the SA ArmyEngineer Formation in Lyttelton, Pretoria, on 4 December2009. 2 Field Engineer Regiment was awarded as the BestEngineer Regiment for 2009. (Photo: WO1 Hennie Booysen)

BEST ENGINEER REGIMENT


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It was a global call to action for people torecognise their individual power andmake an imprint around them. OnMandela Day, people all over the worldwere encouraged to spend at least 67minutes working towards the commongood of humanity and making a differ-ence in the life of someone less fortunate.

The 67 minutes are a symbol of the 67years that Mr Nelson RolihlanhlaMandela spent bettering the lives of thecitizens of South Africa. Mr Mandelaspent most of his time building a unitedsociety. Madiba was known as a personwho worked hard to rebuild UBUNTU.He dedicated his life to the people ofAfrica.Air Force Base Bloemspruit is partof the community, which is why its per-sonnel spend most of their time develop-ing the community. It is their core busi-ness to make sure that they protect thecommunity and also set a good standardof discipline for them. The day before 18July 2009 (the birthday of NelsonMandela), members of Air Force BaseBloemspruit spent half a day cleaningBloemfontein and Bloempieland DayCare Centre (AFB Bloemspruit). In thisway the base showed its appreciation for

WE BELONG TO THE COMMUNITY

As part of rejuvenating the Public ServiceAct Personnel (PSAP), the Army SupportBase Potchefstroom became the first unitin the Department to embark on arecruitment drive to identify suitablyqualified candidates to fill various posts.

This was after the unit lost some of itsdedicated members over the years toattrition (severance packages, resigna-tions and death). It was one of the pro-cesses that was initiated by Capt VanDen Heever (Retired) and later takenover by Maj M. Els with Ms Y. Mare pro-viding the necessary documentation andsupport.

Because there were no funds avail-able, Ms Weideman assisted in compil-ing personnel interview questionnaires.Later on, thousands of flyers were circu-lated and the Intranet was utilised foradvertising in order to reach as manypotential candidates as possible. Lots oftelephonic enquiries were received fromall corners of the country.

With the high rate of unemploymentexperienced and the burden caused byrecession in the country, 1 770 appli-cations were received and all wereprocessed.

ASB POTCHEFSTROOM TRAINS NEW EMPLOYEES

After the interviews and the short-list-ing process the unit managed to appoint34 members. They were divided into level2 and 3 posts.

In training employees, the followingskills training/courses were scheduledfor the newly appointed members:handyman, stock handling, cleaning,chainsaw operator and lawnmower main-tenance. During the interaction with theirrespective trainers, the newly appointedemployees displayed a high standard ofdiscipline and commitment. As a result

Newly appointed Public Service Act Personnel during their Practical CateringCourse. (Photo: Capt J.M. Mabidikane)

they were all declared competent oncompletion of the course.

During the handing over of the cer-tificates to the competent learners, ColPhillip van Dyk, Officer Com-mandingArmy Support Base Pot- chefstroom,congratulated all the learners on theirachievements, which he said were a step-pingstone to new opportunities as theirnewly acquired qualifications wereaccredited by the South AfricanQualification Authority (SAQA). CaptJ.M. Mabidikane, ASB Potchefstroom

what Mr Mandela did for South Africa.The base was also raising the awarenessof all the people of South Africa that anenvironment must be kept clean at alltimes. "We are cleaning at the taxi rank toshow people that they must keep theenvironment clean, and we also belong tothe community," said Lt P. Mlangeni.

Our country is looking forward to the2010 FIFA World Cup, and all eyes are onSouth Africa. Air Force Base Bloemspruit

believes in miracles; we believe thattogether we can make a huge change inthe lives of South Africans. We encour-age people to do something good for thecommunity because they belong to it.

Message dedicated to Mr Mandela:Happy birthday Madiba. May AlmightyGod give you many years to come. Youwrote a book that can be read by thewhole world. Lt P. Mlangeni, AFB Bloemspruit

Members of AFB Bloemspruit spent half a day cleaning the streets ofBloemfontein.


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May the New Year, 2010 bring about

Happiness in homesAmity of nationsProsperity of peoplesPeace around the globeYearning for wisdom

Nobility of professionsEmergence of godlinessWell-being of souls

Yielding to humanenessEgress of hatredAbatement of inequalityReunification of belligerent.Lt P.P. Tlhabanelo, 121 SAI Bn,deployed in Kutum (Sudan)

HAPPY NEWYEAR - 2010

news from abroad

Please allow us to register a word ofthanks you and congratulate theMinisterial Commission on Defence fora job well done back home. We as SouthAfrican peacekeepers outside the coun-try would like to welcome them warmlyinto the SANDF! We hope our SANDFand the country will give them the totalsupport they deserve.

The commission has up to date per-formed an amazing service for our poorsoldiers and their poor families at large!We strongly believe that if it were notbecause of them as mediators, our newSANDF should have gone to war withits troops. The commission is acting asour military, emergency rescue teamand doing a great military job! We arewatching from a distance out here onexternal deployment, and are impressedto witness how quickly they tackle ourfor far too long overdue salary issues.

In all corners of our country and theworld, the media has been informedabout how the SANDF should stop inte-gration, salary abuse and harassmentagainst its own troops. Cheap labour hasto be foreign (or history) in our SANDF!It is about time that the SANDF realiseswho we really are, then we will be head-ing for military success in our newSANDF!

We soldiers are constantly compet-ing for a better social and military posi-tion with our police and other securityforces, but for us it was very difficult toobtain military and social compliments,

LETTER OF APPRECIATION

and sometimes it appears that we are soabsorbed in this competition that we areblind to the realities around us. With thecurrent soaring prices of commodities,including our beloved ones, we are theones taking military financial strain! Wesend special greetings and thanks to thecommission because now once the com-mission satisfies the troops, there will benothing standing in the way of these sol-diers getting their proper integration, pro-motions, career maintenance and salaryhikes with immediate effect, and they willbe the winners. No more will they wagewar against their organisation, theirpayslips, loan sharks, ATMs and bankstaff members on their pay day!

We shall now nail criminals and localcrime, and also begin to win the waragainst criminals, and we shall stop at

nothing to end crime and corruptioncompletely, and recognise the gains wehave made after integration into ournew SANDF! But now, because of theCommission, troops will be very happyand excited and have a chance to smileon pay day because they will be able toput something on the table for them-selves and their beneficiaries!

The recommendations of theMinisterial Commission on Defence toimprove soldiers' working conditions onlocal and external deployment and theirsalaries and allowances are proper and itis here to stay permanently. We arehighly confident in the commission'sexcellent job, and we are very proud ofits updates and progress made since itsappointment date!

Soldiers have the right to a better,effective, affordable and acceptable mili-tary and social lifestyle, and now thecommission will apparently be therewhen we need them! In conclusion, weurge our soldiers to plan ahead anddevote more of their monies andresources to their own and their families'education and a healthy lifestyle, whichwill be of benefit to their families, theSANDF and our country. Our economywill flourish and our future will be morethan bright! May God our AlmightyLord bless our Ministerial Commissionon Defence, our SANDF and ourGovernment now and forever more.Amen! S Sgt T.D. Makiti, currently inthe Sudan with 121 SAI Bn

The HIV and AIDS pandemic remains amajor socio-medical challenge on theAfrican continent and the world at large.This killer disease continues to erode soci-etal institutions such as families, securityforces and organisations. The RSA contin-gent in the Sudan under the auspices ofthe UNAMID peacekeeping mission inDarfur joins the rest of the world in com-memoration of World AIDS Day on 1December 2009.

Every UNAMID member (RSA con-tingent, Civpol, Milobs and the Egyptiansincluded) portrayed the talents and thepositive image of the RSA/UNAMID, butthe main objective was to sensitise allpeacekeepers to this killer disease, and toenhance the force preparation of theUNAMID forces and promote a team

WORLD AIDS DAY COMMEMORATION

S Sgt T.D. Makiti. (Photo: Lt P.P. Tlhabanelo)

building spirit, general fitness and ahealthy lifestyle!

Addressing UNAMID members inclosing, Lt Col B. Klaasin, OfficerCommanding RSA Contingent, gavethanks to all the UNAMID participants,including Civpol, Milobs and theEgyptians for their excellent spirit andgood discipline during and after theevents. The Kutum Mass Choir and theKutum Comforters Choir were in a jovialmood and thrilled every UNAMID forcemember with their outstanding perfor-mance. Furthermore, sport drama, abeauty contest and a battle between thedeejays formed part of the events. Theday was a huge success! S Sgt T.D.Makiti, currently in the Sudan with 121 SAI Bn


11

FIFA 2010 WORLD CUP FOR SA IS HERE

December the 1st of each and everyyear is marked as a significant day onour calendars. We collectively com-memorate and wage war against HIVand AIDS! During this day we are allurged to witness and to raise HIV andAIDS awareness and to encourage peo-ple to take all necessary precautionarymeasures possible to win the waragainst this killer disease! Wake updear peacekeeper wake up! What isyour action, as a proud, committed anddedicated soldier in that regard? Eventhough HIV and AIDS concerns everysoldier and every civilian! But weshould not think of it as the end of theworld! We should learn to accept andfind a way of moving on with a healthylifestyle! HIV and AIDS is a reality, it'sour responsibility and there's no cureyet!

HIV and AIDS can kill and it cannotbe cured! But it can be put under con-trol! How many more should be sen-tenced to death before we can acceptthat HIV and AIDS is real? Can some-body claim that he or she does not

DECLARING WAR AGAINST HIV AND AIDS

Come on rainbow nation, let's get behindBafana Bafana with their Madiba magic! Ithink it has been easier to vuvuzela be-hind our national team in previous yearsthan currently! It was with the certainamount of sadness to notice that we asthe rainbow nation do not flood thesports fields to give a necessary vumaa toour boys. Our boys are very creative andthey can do magic on the pitch, and theircreativity is what makes them special!Our boys are very passionate about soc-cer and they are great motivators andinnovators, check them when they cele-brate after scoring, which is our greatestfun!

I think they need to take up new chal-lenges now for their careers to grow, andoversees is where they will be one day!Our boys are so special because they canhandle any pressure and that is why theydo miracles even if the going gets tough!Honestly speaking, we do not expect tolose, but if that is the case, we will beequally happy, because what has alwaysbeen a priority for us has been to host thebig tournament. But winning the tourna-ment will also be a blessing and a greathonour and we will definitely cherish it

for the rest of our lives, especially becausewe did not even take part for far too longduring our dark days.

Being nominated as the rainbownation to host this kind of global event ismore than encouraging on its own as itshows that our country is being globallyappreciated! It will be a great feeling forour country to lift the 2010 FIFA WorldCup Trophy, and there are a lot of eco-nomic benefits at stake as well! We areaware that it will not be an easy competi-tion, but the win at the final will provethat our country has what it takes andmanaged to gave their all! So we hope forthese things. South Africa has enormoustalent in the Bafana Bafana team. Ourcoaches have been able to harness thosetalents over the years to turn out success-ful teams! Our boys tend to be great andare not afraid to try new things on thefield of play, and they are coached in away that allows them to use their initia-tive! Our boys must just always keepfocusing and take every game very seri-ously, respect and follow their values tohelp them manage and balance their lives!Our boys will have to improve a lot andgrow their talents to make things very dif-

ficult for their opponents abroad!It will be an exciting global experi-

ence for our boys, especially to winanother world trophy like their fellowrugby boys did in 2006! They made ourcountry very proud indeed! Our boyswill do their best to win, and so theyshould because they have the hunger tosucceed and every player that is calledup is expected to put extra vumaa intoevery game! Our nation is aware of ourboys' local and external games and thefatigue, exhaustion and frustration chal-lenges, but it is the reality of our soccerlife today! So if we support our boys, wewill find the extra energy to be the best,our hunger and thirst to win will takecontrol! Local honours are also vital, butour greatest achievement as a countrywill have been to host and win the 2010FIFA World Cup! We will all be strivingfor the same goal and a sense of achieve-ment together as one country. It will bemagnificent and unforgettable. Unitedwe stand, divided we fall. God, Lordbless our country now and forever more.Amen! S Sgt T.D. Makiti, AMHU Gauteng, currently in theSudan with 121 SAI Bn

know, even by now how HIV and AIDSis contracted, spread and how it is pre-vented? That will be a grave joke, mydear comrades! Please, please, please,comrades, those who are still unfaith-ful, irresponsible, Please stop it! Ournation is bleeding, and our economy isshrinking!

ABC is the only answer, comrades!Our communities are destroyed, youngand old, black and white, rich and pooralike. Our future is cursed! ABC is oursurvival and our refuge! Life teaches usalways, but is sometimes ignored or goesunnoticed. One big lesson we are alwaystaught is: stick to your values and staynegative - forever more! Stick to yourABC - Abstinance, Be Faithful or Con-domise and be saved, forever more!Remember that every action has its con-sequences, my dear comrades!

Always be ready to take responsibili-ty for your actions! We are all privilegedand living in a democratic country wheregolden opportunities in resources, edu-cation, growth and successes are possi-ble! But many of us still shy away from

disclosing our health status and preferto die in isolation. Wake up our dearcomrades wake up! With the few avail-able resources we are blessed with inour country we need to educate eachother about HIV and AIDS to encourageeach other to be tested, use safety pre-cautions, disclose and stay negative!These will include prayer first, ahealthy diet, hygiene and fitness. Wakeup comrades, wake up!

In conclusion, let us take this pre-cious time to remember those who areinfected and affected and give a helpinghand if possible! Let us try to rememberthose who have sadly departed withthis world because of this killer disease,our dear comrades! By acknowledgingthis moment of silent - let their spiritjourney to heaven with peace and restin peace now and forever more. Todepart is to meet and to meet is todepart, our dear comrades, till we meetagain sometime in heaven, now and for-ever more. Amen! S Sgt T.D. Makiti,AMHU Gauteng, currently in the Sudan with 121 SAI Bn

events

12


By Cpln (Rev) Hannes SteenkampPhotos: S Sgt L.E. Dlova

hen the soldiers at ArmySupport Base WesternCape and surroundingmilitary units went towork on 17 December2009, they were unawareof the opportunity and

privilege to meet the Minister ofDefence and Military Veterans, MsLindiwe Sisulu, in person later thatday. She decided to visit some unitsinformally towards the end of eachyear to convey her greetings for thefestive season in person and to thankthe soldiers for the hard work duringthe year. This time it was Cape Town'sturn.

Ms Sisulu was accompanied by theDeputy Minister of Defence andMilitary Veterans, Mr ThabangMakwetla, the Chief of the SA Army,Lt Gen Solly Shoke and the GOC SAArmy Support Formation, Maj GenStephan Marumo.

The visit kicked off with a presen-tation by the Officer CommandingASB Western Cape, Col Peter Kobbie,on the activities, successes and chal-lenges of the base. The minister took aspecial interest in the working and liv-ing conditions of the soldiers and stat-ed that the upgrading of military facil-ities to an acceptable standard was apriority as a means of improving thecommitment and productivity of themembers of the DOD.

The next stop was a meeting withabout 600 soldiers from differentServices and units in the WesternCape. An atmosphere of expectation,especially with regard to the salary

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Minister Sisulu visited ASB Western Cape

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, and herDeputy Minister, Mr Thabang Makwetla, at the meeting held at Army SupportBase Western Cape.

increases, was tangible when shestepped into the hall. She did not dis-appoint those present and, to enthusi-astic applause, announced the payincreases in detail. She also explainedthe decision not to award performanceincentives to a few members in 2009,but rather to distribute them equallyamong all soldiers who had upheld theCode of Conduct for UniformedPersonnel of the SANDF. Although notmuch, it was done in this manner toshow the department's gratitude to allsoldiers who had done their duty well.

She emphasised that the payincreases were but the first phase inthe improvement of the service condi-tions of soldiers. She is working on theestablishment of a permanent commis-sion along the lines of the PublicService Commission. She stated thatdie DOD was different from the rest of

the Public Service and needed its owndispensation. A draft bill providingfor this commission had been pre-pared for submission to the Cabinet.

In her speech she also announcedthat the SANDF would take over theprotection of the borders in 2010 fromthe SA Police Service because it wasthe mandate of the SANDF to protectthe constitutional security of the coun-try. HIV positive members will infuture also be deployed on peacekeep-ing missions provided that they orothers are not put at risk.

Ms Sisulu urged members to workwisely with the resources and fundsof the DOD. The financial manage-ment of the department must improveto address the repeatedly raised con-cerns of the Auditor General. If thedepartment can obtain unqualifiedaudits, this can be a basis for securing


13

By Cpl Ally RakomaPhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

he Minister of Defence andMilitary Veterans, MsLindiwe Sisulu, and theDeputy Minister of Defenceand Military Veterans, MrThabang Makwetla, linked upwith members of 35 Engineer

Support Regiment and 1 ConstructionRegiment at Military Base Dunnottarin Springs on 18 December 2009.

The aim of their visit was to informmembers of the decision taken by theCommander-in-Chief of the SANDF,President Jacob Zuma, on the salaryincreases to SANDF members onsalary levels 2 to 12, ie from Privates toColonels. The increase will range from2% up to 98%, and be effective as of 1 December 2009.

Speaking to the soldiers, MinisterSisulu said that she, President Zumaand the Deputy President, MrKgalema Motlanthe, had declared

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2010 the year of the SANDF

2010 the year of the SANDF."Currently we are treated as ordinarypublic servants; we are not ordinaryworkers, we are not ordinary at all,"

she said.Minister Sisulu said that many

people had complained about living

more funds from the treasury. Everysoldier must do his or her part toachieve this goal.

She ended her address by wishing

everyone well during the festive sea-son and the coming year and remind-ed those present: "We care for you!"

Her address was followed by an

open session, facilitated by Lt GenShoke, during which the minister andher deputy listened and responded toseveral frank questions and com-ments from the floor. After a newsconference and a discussion with themilitary leader group, the ministerenjoyed lunch with them.

When the minister departed somehours later than initially planned, sheleft the impression that she experi-enced the visit as meaningful andtime well spent with the members ofher department. The soldiersreturned home with gratitude for theprivilege of having met and listenedto her and the deputy minister in per-son and with the assurance that theirwell-being was a priority for themand their staff.

The soldiers applauding the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, on the announcement of the pay increases.

>> on page 14

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, speakingto soldiers as she declares 2010 as the year of the SANDF.

events

14

conditions in the barracks. "These con-ditions must improve immediately.We owe it to you to provide decentshelter, decent salaries and world-classworking conditions with all basicamenities of a world standard."

She is of the opinion that troopsmust have swimming pools, playinggrounds, the best academic and medi-cal institutions and DStv in their ownliving rooms. "To fast-track mainte-nance, I am engaging the Minister ofPublic Works for us to do some main-tenance ourselves as we are able to doso. I will come and join you in our ownletsema in which we will paint, planttrees and kick-start a campaign tomaintain our barracks ourselves. Wecan maintain these barracks better thanmany private companies," Ms Sisulusaid.

In her closing remarks she statedthat the SANDF was a role modelorganisation and an able defender ofSouth Africa. "Rest assured, you are ina better place. Let us inculcate the rightspirit and attitude to continue to buildon our tremendous achievements," sheconcluded.

In addition, Mr Makwetlaexpressed the uniqueness of the mili-tary calling. He explained that fromthe broader perspective in any democ-racy, the military provides support forthe civilian population and the govern-ment. "We are approaching a point

>> from page 13

Rank Levels Current Gross Salary New Gross SalaryMSDS 1 Year 3 R 2 643.25 R 4 318.00MSDS 2nd Year 3 R 2 643.25 R 5 343.33Pte 3 R 5 286.50 R 7 871.00L Cpl 4 R 6 149.00 R 8 519.83Cpl 5 R 7 274.00 R 9 222.17Sgt 6 R 8 962.75 R10 182.00S Sgt 7 R11 044.25 R11 695.92WO2 8 R13 498.00 R13 977.67WO1 9 R16 045.00 R16 704.58CO 4 R 6 149.00 R 8 519.832Lt 5 R 7 274.00 R 9 222.17Lt 6 R 8 962.75 R10 805.17Capt 8 R13 498.00 R13 977.67Maj 9 R16 045.00 R16 704.58Lt Col 10 R20 026.50 R20 770.08Col 11 R31 77O.75 R32 500.00Col 12 R44 358.50 R45 061.67

where uncertainty regarding your ser-vice conditions will be something ofthe past. In a spirit of patriotism let usgo forward together as South

Africans. Its people are grateful to youfor never failing them," he said.

The salary scales

Fltr: The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, theDeputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Mr Thabang Makwetla,Brig Gen Luvuyo Nobanda, the General Officer Commanding SA ArmyEngineer Formation, and Lt Gen Solly Shoke, the Chief of the SA Army, during their visit to Military Base Dunnottar.


15

>> on page 27

A Riverclass minehunter, which will be used to counter any underwater threat.

By PO V.D. MalekaPhotos: Base Public Relations photographers

he eyes of the whole worldwill be focused on SouthAfrica in June and July thisyear, as we host the mostanticipated international soc-cer tournament, the FIFA 2010Soccer World Cup. Many

SA Navy geared and readyfor FIFA 2010 World Cup

TElizabeth harbour and the last one atDurban harbour. The deployment ispart of the FIFA 2010 World Cup

Provincial Joint Operations Centres'interventions to enhance security dur-

The Maritime Reaction Squadronwill be responsible for harbour protection and security.

South African government depart-ments have planned various operationsto render assistance and support forone of the country's biggest eventsever. The Department of Defence(DOD) will also be assisting during theFIFA 2010 Soccer World Cup and havedubbed the project, OperationKGWELE. Kgwele means "ball" inSetswana, which makes the operationreflective of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

The SA Navy will deploy membersfrom various musterings, corps andbranches, as well as three ships, one atCape Town harbour, one at Port


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2010 Opening ofParliament: The Year of Action

By Lufuno NetshirembePhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

or the first time in the historyof democratic South Africa theOpening of Parliament washeld in the evening on 11February 2010 in Cape Town.The date of this importantannual event was chosen to

deliver the state of the nation addressto celebrate a momentous day in thelives of South Africans: the day MrNelson Mandela, the first democrati-cally elected President of South Africa,was released from jail where he washeld for 27 years for the crime of trea-son against the apartheid regime.

Former political prisoners werespecially invited to be part of the jointparliamentary sitting on this day.Among the invited guests were Helene

Pastoors and Michael Dingake bothfrom Botswana, Mr Andimba Toivo yaToivo of SWAPO in Namibia and theRivonia treason trial defence team,including Lord Joel Joffe and JudgeArthur Chaskalson.

FIt will not do justice only to mention

the struggle heroes or heroines; it isimportant to acknowledge the contribu-tion of the then National Party leader-ship that played a role in bringingabout this democracy we have today.Former President P.W. Botha initiatedthe discussions about the possiblerelease of political prisoners. PresidentBotha worked with former Minister ofJustice, Mr Mr Kobie Coetzee, who wasassisted by Dr Neil Barnard and MrMike Louw in the process leading to therelease of former President Mandela.

The role of the SANDF in theOpening of Parliament

The SANDF, as an apolitical organi-sation and a defence tool of the Stateheaded by the current President, who isthe Commander-in-Chief of theSANDF, is expected to show its alle-giance to the President. It is for this rea-son that the SANDF forms the guard ofhonour, and why there is a 21-gun

Learners honouring the President at the Opening of Parliament.

Members of the SA Military Health Service march along Adderley Street inCape Town.


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President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma takes the salute. Fltr: Mr Max Vuyisile Sisulu, the Speaker of the NationalAssembly, President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, President of South Africa and SANDF Commander-in-Chief, DeputyPresident Kgalema Motlanthe, Ms Sizakele Khumalo Zuma, one of the First Ladies, and Mr Mninwa JohannesMahlangu, Speaker of the National Council of province.

salute, a salute flight by the SilverFalcons of the SA Air Force, street lin-ing by soldiers, a 21-motorcycle escortand the four Services' bands.

The Opening of Parliament is notonly a chance for the SANDF to showits loyalty to the President, but pro-vides an opportunity to show theworld and South African spectators themusical talent that the SANDF has.

To underline the rejuvenation of theSANDF many young soldiers whorecently joined the military took part inthe 2010 Opening of ParliamentParade. This dispels the notion that the

SANDF is saturated with old soldiers.New and young recruits in the SANDFinspire other young people to join theSouth African military to follow acareer in the SANDF.

One Force conceptThe Reserve and Regular Force uni-

formed members of the SA Army, theSA Air Force, the SA Navy and the SAMilitary Health Service displayed theeffectiveness of the One Force conceptand their esprit de corps. Altogether 300members of the SA Army, 80 membersof the SA Air Force, 120 members of the

SA Navy and 80 members of the SAMilitary Health Service participated inthe 2010 Opening of Parliament.

At the end of the successful mis-sion Col Peter Kobbie, the Parade Co-ordinator, thanked all the uniformedmembers for their hard work duringthe event. "I am pleased to say that Iam generally impressed with a jobwell done. I know there were somechallenges when we practised for thisevent, but what really matters is thefinal execution that was perfect," saidCol Kobbie in closing the debriefingsession at the Castle of Good Hope.

Members of the SA Army march down Adderley Streetin Cape Town.

Members of the SA Air Force march along AdderleyStreet in Cape Town.

clippings


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The Chief of Logistics, Maj Gen Thulile Nkonyane, hands over the swords tothe Vietnam Defence Attaché, Sr Col Nguyen Manh Chu.

By Mandla MahlanguPhoto: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole

he SANDF donated ten ceremonialswords to the Vietnam People

Army during the handing over cere-mony held at Logistics SupportFormation in Pretoria on 11 December2009.

The Vietnam Defence Attaché, SrCol Nguyen Manh Chu, said: "It is inour interest to reinforce and strength-en the friendship between the SANDFand the Vietnam People's Army. Ourtop leaders always highly value yourachievement in building the SANDFand in keeping peace for South Africaand the African people."

"In 2003 the Deputy Minister ofDefence, General Nguyen Huy Hieu,paid a first ever visit to South Africa.The visit was successful and helped toconsolidate and improve the under-standing between the two armies. In2005 the visit of His Excellency M.Lekota to Vietnam further improvedthe friendship," said Sr Col Manh Chu.

Sr Col Manh Chu added: "As asymbol of the friendship between the

two armed forces, we have the honourto attend the ceremony of handingover the swords to the VietnamPeople's Army."

The Chief of Logistics, Maj Gen

SANDF donates 10 swords to the Vietnam People's Army

Thulile Nkonyane, welcomed theVietnamese delegation to the LogisticsSupport Formation and handed overthe ten donated ceremonial swords toSr Col Manh Chu.

By L Cpl Itumeleng MkahubelaPhoto: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole

he agreement between the Ministersof Defence of Angola and South

Africa yielded positive results followingtheir training on functional internalaudit aspects that were presented by theDefence Inspectorate Division (RSA). Itwas decided that three groups of eightAngolan Armed Forces membersshould enroll for the course as it pro-moted democratic practices and goodgovernance.

The Performance Audit InspectorsCourse focuses, inter alia, on perfor-

Inspectorate Division trainsAngolan Armed Forces

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mance audit, internal audit, anti-corrup-tion and anti-fraud techniques. It alsoprovides guidelines on how to auditcombat readiness. The course was alsopresented in Portuguese to allow learnersthe flexibility to grasp information muchbetter and quicker. The certificate cere-mony for the last course was held on 10December 2009.

The DOD (RSA) Inspector General,Maj Gen Mxolosi Petane, officiated at theceremony and congratulated the learnerson their achievements and all that theydid to obtain Proficiency Badges asinspectors, and added that they were notgiven lightly, but to committed and ded-

icated people. The reports from instruc-tors and staff indicated that the learnersshowed much potential. In only threemonths they had exceeded the expectedpercentage, which proved that theywould be capable of performing well intheir respective fields. Maj Gen Petanesaid they were also exposed to monitor-ing and auditing combat readiness. Afterpermission was given by the authoritiesthey received combat readiness modulesin Cape Town and Simon's Town andcompleted them in two weeks.

This was a way to put into practicewhat they had been studying theoretical-ly. Maj Gen Petane urged them to stay

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By Cpl Ally RakomaPhoto: Sgt Elias Mahuma

n 24 January 2010 the SA ArmyInfantry Formation held a

memorial service at Fort Klapper-kop in Pretoria to remember thefallen Infantry soldiers who losttheir lives in the line of duty.

Officers Commanding of SAArmy Infantry Battalions, Reser-ve Force units, Veterans' associa-tions, family members and repre-sentatives of foreign countrieslaid wreaths and planted crossesat the memorial.

Chaplain Jacob Dithipe fromthe SA Army Infantry Formationspoke during the Scripture read-ing of heroes and victors in war.He said that soldiering was a call-ing. "Our fallen Infantry men andwomen lived up to their calling,"said Chaplain Dithipe.

Brig Gen Krubert Nel, Chief ofStaff, SA Army InfantryFormation, in paying tribute tothe fallen soldiers said: "Theyserved with distinguished con-duct, pride and joy. The interna-tional recognition awarded toSouth Africa and the SANDFtoday is also due to their sacrificesand contributions".

Lt Gen Do Amaral, Inspector General of the Angolan Army (left), and Maj Gen Moxolisi Petane, DOD (RSA) Inspector General.

focused and pledge to be available shouldthe need arise for them to intervene.Information interchange and communica-tion will continue between these two gov-ernment departments. "With these fewwords, we have completed our agree-ment," said Maj Gen Petane. The courseleader, Col Antonio Andrie, said thecourse specifically designed for theAngolan Armed Forces Inspectors was runfor six months per group. The second last-ed five months and the third four monthson account of other responsibilities in theirown country. However, he is content withthe knowledge they have acquired, as theycovered every module.

Remembering the sacrifices of the fallen

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Sounding of the lastpost at the SA ArmyInfantry memorial service held at FortKlapperkop inPretoria.

SCWO Mothusi Kgaladi, the SeniorChief Warrant Officer of the SA Army,laying a wreath in remembrance of thefallen soldiers.

exercise


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By L Cpl Itumeleng MakhubelaPhotos: Thabo Shirinda

he largest military trainingground in the SouthernHemisphere is chosen for theannual SANDF exhibition ofits combat readiness. ExerciseSEBOKA gathers some of thefinest soldiers from all the dif-

ferent units to take part in an exercisespecifically designed to test combatreadiness. The weather, which was hotand windy, did not prevent themachinery utilised in the exercise fromperforming optimally during theOpen Day.

An exercise of this magnitude,planned months prior to execution hasexhausted over R43 million for mis-sion possible sake. Over 5 000 troopsrocked up at the premises of the SAArmy Combat Training Centre in

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Preparing a combat ready force

Lohatlha in the Northern Cape readyfor some adrenalin pumping experi-ence. Men and women, you would not

tell the difference when they are on theground, owing to their legibility whenexecution similar tasks.

General Officer Commanding 46 Brigade, Brig Gen Sithabiso Mahlobo,addressing the audience prior to the demonstration.

Members of the mechanised infantry moving in on "enemy lines".


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Artillery members preparing to launch the GV5 - 155 mm howitzer.

46 Brigade took the reins this timeunder the leadership of Brig GenSithabiso Mahlobo, the General OfficerCommanding, for whom this was hisfirst experience as a Commander.Exercise SEBOKA was conducted intwo parts, Integrated Training andBrigade Exercise. The first took placefrom 11 to 21 November 2009 in whichmembers trained with various corps inan attempt to integrate and under-stand how different corps support andcomplement each other.

The Infantry, Armour, Artillery,Engineers, etc combine to create acombat ready user system. TheBrigade Exercise was subsequentlyconducted from 21 to 27 November

2009. Units at Brigade Command levelexecuted offensive operations to testtheir ability to function as an integrat-ed combat ready system.

About 19 different units from allServices and Divisions participated inExercise SEBOKA. This saw thedeployment of artillery, viz the GV5and GV6 batteries, 2 Field EngineerRegiment, SA Air Force Hawks, Oryx,etc. Brig Gen Mahlobo in an interviewwith SA Soldier, boasted of the perfor-mance of the participants, claimingthey were of excellent quality. He alsohighlighted training institutions ashaving contributed to the success ofthe Exercise.

Sustenance and maintenance dur-

ing the Exercise are of keyimportance and havealways been the chal-lenge. Fires that break outduring training causesome problems for neigh-bouring communities. Heurged all soldiers andthose affected to ensuretheir combat readiness.Asked by one journalist ifExercise SEBOKA waswhat it took to win a war,he replied: "The leader-ship and quality of sol-diers are what count towin a war".

The Chief of the SAArmy, Lt Gen SollyShoke, chaired the mediabriefing at the Joe SlovoMess on Exercise SEBO-KA. He said there were nofatal incidents during the

Fltr: Chief Army Force Preparation, Maj Gen Vusi Masondo, Chief of the SA Army, Lt Gen Solly Shoke, and GeneralOfficer Commanding 46 Brigade, Brig Gen Sithabiso Mahlobo, during the media briefing.

exercise. They had attended a memo-rial service earlier during that monthto commemorate members who diedin 2007 following an MK 5 twin-barrel35 mm gun mechanical failure. Thegun is being decommissioned; Lt GenShoke said they were still looking intosafety aspects with a view to commis-sioning it again.

Lt Gen Shoke also suggested thatjournalists be embedded during theexercise to get clear photographs of it.The Chief of Defence Reserves, MajGen Roy Andersen, was interested tofind out about the participation ofReserve Force members in ExerciseSEBOKA, in which they gave a goodaccount of themselves.


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events

By Cpl Ally RakomaPhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma andThabo Shirinda

n 29 January 2010 the SA AirForce celebrated its 90thanniversary by showing offits aviation heritage with anoutstanding display of airextravaganza at Air ForceBase Swartkop in Pretoria.

Adding prominence to the proceedingsthe SA Air Force unveiled four Gripenjet fighter aircraft fully armed with theIRIS-T air-to-air missile for the firsttime.

Briefing the media, Lt Gen CarloGagiano, the Chief of the SA Air Force,reiterated that the SA Air Force wasconstantly operating at a high level toensuring safe airspace during the FIFA2009 Confederations Cup. He addedthat it was an excellent preparation forthe FIFA 2010 World Cup. "We con-ducted joint training in a number ofexercises with the SA Police Service(SAPS) and Government departmentsas part of preparing to deal with anysecurity threats or situations threaten-ing the FIFA 2010 World Cup. A num-ber of lessons have been learnt in theprocess and we are ready to protect theWorld Cup games," said Lt Gen Gagiano.

Addressing the audience and mem-bers on parade, Lt Gen Gagiano men-tioned that the SA Air Force had nowentered the "Nervous Nineties"."Invariably, the marking of such ananniversary also brings, together withthe festivities, an element of reflectionon the highs and lows of the past year,accompanied by an acknowledgement

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A display ofair extravaganza

of the achievements of Air Force bases,squadrons and units," he said.

On Air Force Day the 2009 achieve-ments of the SA Air Force bases,squadrons, units and sections wereacknowledged. The SA Air ForcePrestige Award for achievement in 2009was awarded to 2 Air Servicing Unit (2ASU AFB Langebaanweg). The top per-formers in various categories were pre-sented with the following functionalawards:

The Safety, Health, Environment,Risk and Quality Award:22 Squadron AFB Ysterplaat.The SAAF Aviation Safety Award:AFB Makhado.The Royal Air Force TrainingAward: Air Force GymnasiumProtection Training Wing.

The Fire and Rescue Services of theYear: AFB Langebaanweg.The Air Force Protection Squadronof the Year: 502 Squadron 68 AirSchool.The Air Force Reserve Squadron ofthe Year: 104 Squadron AFBWaterkloof.The Air Force Support Unit of theYear: SAAF HQ Unit.The Air Force Air Servicing Unit ofthe Year: 2 ASU AFBLangebaanweg.The Air Command Directorate ofthe Year: Directorate CombatSystems.The Air Force Operational SupportUnit of the Year: 142 SquadronAir Force Mobile DeploymentWing.

The SA Air Force and the SA Police Service demonstrating how to deal witha hostage situation on a plane.


23

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Jeff Radebe, led by Lt Col Glen Gibson, inspects theGripen Jet Fighter cockpit.

The Air Force Training Unit of the Year:SAAF College.The Air Force Permanent Flying Unit of the Year:15 Squadron AFB Durban.The Air Force Base of the Year: AFB Durban.The Air Force Sword of Peace:22 Squadron AFB Ysterplaat.The Myrnel Floating Trophy:AFB Overberg Combined Mess.In its tribute to the past, the parade ended with an

impressive air display and mass formation fly-pasts. Thefirst formation consisted of the SA Air Force MuseumHistoric Flight Alouette II, Alouette III and Puma. This wasfollowed by a mass formation of six Oryx and nine AgustaA-109 helicopters. Next was a flight formation of a C-47Dakota, Kudu, Bosbok and Harvard, followed by a forma-tion of six Cessna Caravans, two King Airs and the PC-12.

The display ended with an air capability demonstrationthat highlighted the level of preparedness and cooperationbetween the SA Air Force and the SAPS in dealing with anysituation threatening the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

Demonstrating its pride in the blue culture, the SA AirForce introduced its new summer ceremonial dress. Theshirts are in free-flowing tunic style, and hang over thepants. Some members mentioned to SA Soldier that the newsummer dress was comfortable in terms of material in hotweather, while the civilian spectators said it remindedthem of the old safari style.

After watching an air capability demonstration on howthe SA Air Force, the SA Army and the SAPS would con-tain a hijacking and hostage situation on a plane or a com-muter bus, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans,

Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, said that itshowed the world that the combatand peacekeeping unit ofGovernment was able to handle anysituation. "We are fully ready for anyeventuality in protecting the upcom-ing 2010 FIFA World Cup games,"said Minister Sisulu proudly.

She was afforded the opportunityto inspect a state-of-the-art machine(the Gripen) and its capabilities and,after climbing on board said: "It's phe-nomenal that we own such capacity;it's absolutely necessary for our envi-ronment. Our asset is our people. TheDefence Department's budget for newaircraft and training to maintain itscapacity needs to be reviewed. Iwould urge Cabinet Ministers, includ-ing Minister Pravin Gordhan, theMinister of Finance, to observe ourpeacekeeping capabilities," MinisterSisulu concluded.

Fltr: The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, theMinister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Jeff Radebe, and theDeputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Mr Thabang Makwetla,applauding the aerobatic display of SA Air Force aircraft during the 90th anniversary celebrations.

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms LindiweSisulu, speaking to members of the media at the Air ForceDay Parade.


24

By Mandla MahlanguPhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

ver 4 463 South Africanmatriculants and graduatesacross the country whowere selected to join theSANDF have reported tovarious military bases andcommenced with training

for the January 2010 Military SkillsDevelopment System Intake.

Faced with an aging military and ashortage of skills, particularly skilledblack personnel in critical musteringsin all four Services, such as engineers,medical practitioners, pilots, sub-mariners and naval combat officers,the Department in 2003 introduced theMilitary Skills Development System(MSDS). The aim of the MSDS is to

Above: Parentsgathered atJohannesburgPark Station tobid an emotion-al farewell totheir childrenwho wereselected for theMilitary SkillsDevelopmentSystem.

MSDS recruits reportto commence training

O

S Sgt Reuben Mafa (an instructor) addresses women recruits at 3 SA Infantry Battalion before dispatching them to their respective bungalows.

focus on youth


25

Above: Womenrecruits at 3 SAInfantryBattalion marchto their bungalows.

>> on page 26

enhance the mission readiness of theSANDF through the systematic rejuve-nation of its human resource composi-tion through annual intakes of youngand fit members who are fully com-mitted to defending the country. Thesystem also provides the youth of thecountry with opportunities to acquirescarce skills.

The Minister of Defence andMilitary Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu,welcomed the recruits and said: "SouthAfricans must be proud of the youngpeople who have chosen the path todefend their country and build a safeand secure South Africa for all.Nothing is more important than youngpersons who stand up and declare that

they are willing to die for their owncountry; this is what these young peo-ple who are joining the SANDF havecommitted themselves to. I join theCommander-in-Chief in welcomingthis brave young team into theSANDF; this is the best place for youto be," said Ms Sisulu.

Ms Sisulu said the SA Army wouldtake 3 294 recruits, the SA Air Force270, the SA Navy 600 and the SAMedical Health Service 400 recruits.

The Minister added that her visionfor the SANDF was of a defence forceable to contribute to scarce skillsdevelopment by training graduatesand releasing them to other sectors, jobcreation and playing a central role in

addressing some of the social chal-lenges affecting South Africa.

"In the SANDF we have all typesof careers, it is important that weabsorb young people and graduates.We can train them in different fieldsand those we cannot take will join ourReserve Force while employed byother sectors. The military must beknown as the centre of innovation andprofessional development," shestressed. Ms Sisulu added that theintake would boost capacity shortagewithin the SANDF as it starts main-taining its own building in this finan-cial year and making available itsskills to municipalities and other sec-

Recruits are searched before boarding the ShosholozaMeyl to report to various military bases.

Recruits march to their bungalows to unpack their possessions.


26

Recruits listen to commands inside their bungalows.

>> from page 25tors of society to assist in project man-agement and implementation.

The Minister called on the class of2010 to take pride in the Code ofConduct of the SANDF and work withher to build an SANDF that is lovedand appreciated by all South Africans.

"We are convinced that next yearwe can absorb close to 10 000 gradu-ates who will learn different skills.Some we will keep in the SANDF andsome will go to municipalities andother sectors to contribute to buildingSouth Africa," she concluded. Sheannounced that the next intake for theSA Air Force and the SA Navy wouldbe in July 2010.

On 10 January 2010 recruits assem-bled at Johannesburg Park Stationwith full bags for their final instruc-tions and were ferried to various mili-tary bases with the Shosholoza Meyltrain. Recruits bade farewell to theirparents and companions who werecrying tears of joy as they departed ona new adventure: the two-year mili-tary service.

Altogether 860 recruits, of which409 were women, reported to 3 SAInfantry Battalion (3 SAI Bn) inKimberley in the Northern Cape on 11January 2010 and underwent a processwhich consisted of the Military Policesearching their bags for illegal sub-stances, weapons and cameras. Theyallocated bungalows, helped complete

medical and personnel forms andissued equipment and uniforms. 3 SAIBn was privileged to be joined byDirk, Tjaard and Hendrik van Zyl, 19-year-old triplets from Tuine inPretoria, who matriculated in 2008.

The first year MSDS trainee sol-diers will receive R4 300 per monthand second year trainees R5 300.Trainees were paid R2 800 before thesalary adjustments announced byCommander-in-Chief, President JacobZuma, on 16 December 2009.

This is the 10th MSDS intake for 3SAI Bn since 2003, which is under thecommand of Acting OfficerCommanding, Lt Col Sipho Nziweni.Male recruits were given a glimpse ofwhat they might expect during theirtraining when soldiers were givingorders at the top of their voices whilethey were unpacking their bags andbeing told to start acting like soldiers.A male recruit responded by sayinghe was ready to face any hardship andwould complete his training successfully.

A Basic Military Training instruc-tor, S Sgt Busang Molokoane of 3 SAIBn, said: "Our responsibility is to trainrecruits and change them from civil-ians into soldiers."

S Sgt Molokoane elaborated bysaying that they would start with theinduction programme to teachrecruits hygiene and basic soldiering,

including the National Anthem andnational symbols. Afterwards, accord-ing to S Sgt Molokoane, recruits wouldbe introduced to Basic Military Train-ing, which would include field craft,musketry, buddy aid and map-reading.

Brig Gen Thandi Mohale, SANDFDirector of Human Resources Acquis-ition at Human Resources Division,told SA Soldier that she was excited bythe turnout. "We have an improve-ment in White and Indian recruits andthis is good," said Brig Gen Mohale,adding that they had achieved theirobjective. Brig Gen Mohale said shewould convene a meeting with staffmembers to stress that the recruitsshould be nurtured and trained andnot abused. She thanked the MilitaryPolice for ensuring that everythingwas in order.

After completion of their basic mil-itary training, deserving MSDSrecruits are afforded the opportunityto select a specific career path at Stateexpense, which includes training tobecome pilots, navigators, doctors,dentists, nurses, artillerists, navalcombat officers and divers.

The passing-out parade for traineesoldiers will be held on 13 May 2010and they will report to their differentunits on 15 May 2010.

Recruits relaxing at 3 SA InfantryBattalion in Kimberley after a tiringtrip from Johannesburg ParkStation.

focus on youth

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The survey ship of the SA Navy, SAS PROTEA, will be conducting underwater surveys.

>> from page 15ing the event. One of the SA Navy'score responsibilities is maritime secu-rity. This will be the focus of itsinvolvement in the FIFA 2010 WorldCup and the Navy will perform vari-ous coastal patrols and underwatersecurity exercises. The SAS PROTEAwill be deployed in Port Elizabeth har-bour and two Riverclass minehunterswill be deployed in the harbours ofCape Town and Durban respectively.These vessels will use their underwa-ter detection equipment to counter allpossible underwater threats. The Cityof Cape Town will have an addedsecurity measure in which MaritimeReaction Squadron (MRS) memberswill be placed on mountains overlook-ing the harbour as Observers.

Each harbour will be providedwith one ship with its crew (SAS PROTEA and two Riverclass mine-hunters) plus 78 members comprisingthe following components:

A diving team to conduct underwater demolitions.A MRS platoon for harbour protection and security.A medical team to provide medicalsupport for deployed personnel.A communications team to handleall the communication between theships.A protection platoon for harbourprotection and security.

the FIFA 2010 Soccer World CupNational Joint Operations Centre,which monitors national assets:

One frigate.SAS DRAKENSBERG, a combatsupport ship of the SA Navy.Two chemical and biochemicalreaction teams for Cape Town and Durban.A MRS platoon.The specialities of the 438 Navy

members that will be deployed duringthe FIFA 2010 Soccer World Cupinclude combat, boat crews, sentries,communications, logistics, catering,

intelligence, information maritimetechnology, etc. Naval control andguidance of ships' teams will also bepresent at all the harbours.

When the FIFA 2010 Soccer WorldCup starts, people around the worldwill be glued to their television sets tobe entertained by the great game ofsoccer. As for the SANDF membersinvolved in Operation KGWELE, theywill be playing a different game, agame of protecting South Africa'sassets, citizens and visitors. This is ourchance to prove our capabilities and toshow patriotism for our country.

The SA Navy divers will be there to conduct underwater demolition requirements.

A harbour patrolboat to conductharbour and coastal patrols.Survey motorboats to conductunderwater surveys.Picture ProcessingElement for underwater security andassessment.An underwatersabotage devicedisposal team forbomb disposal.The following

additional measureswill be placed onstandby in support of

insight


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By LS Dineo MalekaPhotos: WO1 Keith Stone

he Maritime Reaction Squad-ron revealed its new ForwardDeployable Base to variousdignitaries from the Ministryof Defence and MilitaryVeterans, Defence RelatedIndustries, SANDF Senior

Officers and the media, at a show andtell event at SAS SALDANHA on 25November 2009.

The Forward Deployable Base con-cept is part of Project XENA, whoseaim is to establish a fully integrated,balanced and deployable system.Project XENA comprises a riverinepatrol boat segment, a command, con-trol and communication (C³) segmentand a Base Camp Segment. The projectwas established to equip the MaritimeReaction Squadron with customised

capabilities in order to best executetheir core operations on the rivers,

T

Once completely erected the Forward Deployable Base indeed looks like a "mini town".

inland lakes and coastal waters on theAfrican continent and littoral waters.

The Maritime ReactionSquadron reveals itsForward Deployable Base

A view of the inside of the accommodation tents.


29

The camp has two gymnasiums equipped with modern fitness machines.

>> on page 30

The Forward Deployable Base iscurrently undergoing operational testsand evaluations to determine whetherthe Maritime Reaction Squadron cancompetently deploy it in support ofthe SANDF's peacekeeping operations.

Dubbed the "home away fromhome", the Base Camp Segment cansupport up to 150 sailors, althoughcurrent accommodation is for 100. Thecamp complex provides the sailorswith accommodation, recreation,catering and sanitation facilities, aswell as logistic support facilities in theform of storage and workshops, andincludes the utility services of powerand water supply and a perimeter bar-rier for protection.

The size of the camp depends onthe actual deployment requirements.The entire camp can fit into an area of150 m x 150 m and is surrounded by a2 m high HESCO bastion wall that canwithstand a rocket propelled grenadeattack, shell fragments and small armsfire. This is the same system used bythe US and NATO forces at their basesin Iraq and Afghanistan. The camp ismade up of thirty-three 6 m containersand thirty-two 5 m x 10 m tents. Thetime taken to erect the full basedepends on the surface, weather con-ditions and the required segments tobe erected, but two weeks is sufficientunder optimal conditions to erect thecomplete camp.

The camp is made up of the following subsystems:

Accommodation/gym/recreation-al/dining hall/galley/reefers

(refrigerator)/ablution;Laundry/sewage/water purification/generators/armoury;Administration tent/command,control and communications andintelligence/workshop tent/caisson walls; andFloating jetty/riverine patrol boatsand landing craft.The 32 containers are used to carry

the camp equipment and whendeployed are used to house the two

generators, the water purification sys-tem, the armoury and other systems.The camp has thirty-two tents, includ-ing specific tents for the crafts work-shop and the Operations andAdministration centre. Twenty-three,5 m x 10 m tents provide accommoda-tion, messes, recreation, gymnasiums,stores and laundry. All the tents haveair-conditioners, fitted lighting andsufficient plug points.

The guests were also invited to view the riverine patrol boat and Lima boatwhich meant taking a rather wobbly walk on the floatable jetty.

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>> from page 29The Maritime Reaction Squadron

has already completed its theoreticaltraining and the harbour acceptancetrial of the Base Camp System, whichwas tested during the SouthernAfrican Development Community(SADC) Field Exercise GOLFINHO inWalvis Bay, Namibia in September2009. The training outcome of ExerciseXENA will, therefore, be conducted insuch a way that the testing and accep-tance of all these segments will beintegrated into one system.

The SA Navy is also looking for-ward to assisting with the 2010 shouldany of the host cities based around thecoast be under threat. All the MaritimeReaction Squadron will do is unpackthe containers and easily erect their"home away from home" base to con-tain and control the situation.

Some interesting points on theBase Camp Segment

The water purifiers can purify seawater and river water and caneven recycle sewage at a rate of25 000 litres per day. The waterproduced only has a TDS (totaldissolved solids) count of 62, bet-ter than many bottled waterbrands!If the base was deployed in CapeTown, it would be able to commu-nicate with one of the boats if itwas deployed in Durban.There is a communications con-tainer with all the modern hi-techequipment needed to keep in con-stant communication with every-one. This includes HF radio trans-missions, radar, and a wireless net-work that provides Internet andemail access.The recreation facility is fitted withDStv and surround side speakers,and there is a cardiovascular and afree-weight gymnasium.The floating jetty system can beerected in a matter of hours, andeach "block" can support up to 350kg. It can also accommodate eightboats on each side.The HESCO bastion wall is madeup of collapsible six-sided wiremesh containers with heavy-dutyfabric liners which once erected

are folded out and then filled withsand. This wall system replaces thesandbags that were used in thepast to secure a perimeter. The colour of the tents, containers

The camp houses two ablution facilities.

and riverine patrol boats is whitebecause this colour is used by theUnited Nations and other organi-sations to indicate neutrality, open-ness and peacekeeping motives.

The outside of the accommodation tents.

The reverse osmosis system used for purifying water ensures that the camphas pure and fresh water at all times.


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clippings

By Maj Miranda Meyer, SO2 Com,SA Army Armour FormationPhoto: Sgt Leonard Xaba

he truly great leaders are not inleadership for personal gain. They

lead in order to serve other people. Aleader knows the way, goes the way,and shows the way," John C. Maxwellonce said. With extremely high stan-dards, not only for himself, but alsofor the SA Army Armour Formation,Brig Gen Chris Gildenhuys, theGeneral Officer Commanding, has ledthe unit for the past decade with greatsuccess. Because of the character hedisplayed, his subordinates recog-nised his admirable qualities and feltcompelled to follow him. His inspira-tion and will to achieve inspired hissubordinates to perform and achievewhat they did in 2009.

Brig Gen Gildenhuys is a manwith excellent leadership qualities,drive, loyalty, dedication, persistenceand is a perfectionist in small things,but this focus on small things makes

Brig Gen Chris Gildenhuys, GeneralOfficer Commanding SA ArmyArmour Formation, has earned theright to be a successful leader.

him so successful and gives him theright to lead. All these qualities con-tribute to the success of his formation.Brig Gen Gildenhuys is a leader to thecore and a soldier to whom each and

He earned the right to lead

T“

everyone, not only in the ArmourFormation, but also the SA Army, canlook up.

During his farewell address held atthe SA Army Armour FormationHeadquarters on 25 November 2009,Brig Gen Gildenhuys said: "I amextremely fortunate and privileged tobe in command of an organisation suchas ours. A leader has the responsibility,but also a real desire, to continuouslyacknowledge the contribution of his orher subordinates."

What therefore gives Brig GenGildenhuys the right to lead this suc-cessful formation? He certainly did notgain it by election or appointment.Having position, title, rank, or degreesdoes not qualify anyone to lead otherpeople. And the ability does not comeautomatically through age or experi-ence either. No, it would be accurate tosay that no one can be given the rightto lead. The right to lead can only beearned. Brig Gen Gildenhuys has mostcertainly earned the right to lead theSA Army Armour Formation.

By Maj Lizette Lombard, SO2 CorpCom, SA Army Signal FormationPhoto: S Sgt H. van der Brink

harles Jones, an American motiva-tional speaker, once said: "Loyalty

is something you give regardless ofwhat you get back, and in giving loy-alty, you're getting more loyalty; andout of loyalty flow other great quali-ties." These were the opening words,said by Brig Gen L.L. Eggers, GeneralOfficer Commanding SA Army SignalFormation, at the medal parade of theSA Army Signal Formation held atWonderboom Military Base on 6November 2009.

Senior officers, officers, warrantofficers, NCOs, family and friendswere all present to honour the loyaltyshown by the 53 medal recipients,through their many years of service.

Special mention was made of WO1

WO1 J.J. Kruger receiving his 40 Years Service Medal from theGeneral Officer Commanding SAArmy Signal Formation, Brig Gen L.L. Eggers.

J.J. Kruger, who was the only recipientof the Good Service Medal for fortyyears of service in the Defence Force.

Honouring loyalty

C

WO1 Kruger joined the Defence Forceon 8 January 1968 as an apprentice atthe School of Signals, which was at thetime situated in Thaba Tshwane (thencalled Voortrekkerhoogte). He retiredon 30 August 2009 and is now enjoy-ing his retirement by keeping himselfbusy in the hunting business.

At the medal parade function anSA Army Corps of Signals (SACS) tra-dition was honoured. Brig Gen Eggerspresented a large "Jimmy" statue toWO1 Kruger to show him that theSACS was honouring him for his ser-vice as a signaller and to remind himthat he would never be forgotten.

WO1 Kruger's milestone shouldstand as a true beacon of inspirationto us all, ensuring that we honourthe SANDF by providing our con-stant and continuous loyalty, and thatone day, in turn, our loyalty will behonoured.

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The world is waiting for youBy Kgabo MashamaitePhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

econd Lieutenant Frans Mnisibecame the toast of theMilitary Academy 2009 gradu-ation ceremony by scoopingthe Sword of Honour, theFloating SA Army Trophy andthe Chief of the SA Army Book

during the 2009 Military AcademyPassing-out Parade in Saldanha on 9December 2009.

Clad in his SA Army step-out tunic 2Lt Mnisi strolled confidently to thepodium to receive his hard earnedrecognition, a Sword of Honour for hisoutstanding achievement as a MilitaryScience student from the DeputyMinister of Defence and MilitaryVeterans, Mr Thabang Makwetla. (TheSword of Honour is the highestacknowledgement for an outstanding

S

2009 MILITARY ACADEMY'S FINEST, fltr: 2Lt Frans Mnisi (Best Overall Student SA Army), 2Lt Cadene Nabbie (BestOverall Student Defence Intelligence), Ens Prince Ratau (Best Overall Student SA Navy) and Lt Zinhle Nyathi (BestOverall SAMHS Student) after being presented with trophies during the Military Academy 2009 End Year Parade atSaldanha.

academic achievement by any SANDFmember in Bachelor of Military Sciencestudies.)

Meanwhile Lt Lindiwe Mashigo ofthe SA Army Engineer Formationscooped four distinctions during hersecond year for her Military Sciencecourse.

Lt Mashigo's hard work was recog-nised by the senior leadership of theSANDF together with the DeputyMinister of Defence and MilitaryVeterans during a glittering MilitaryScience Awards function held on theevening of 8 December 2009 at theMilitary Academy in Saladanha.

Her achievements includedContract Law II in which she obtained83%; Applied Commercial Law II, 78%;Interpretation of Statutes II, including abook prize from Lexus NexisButterworth, and Public andDevelopment Management II in which

she obtained 76%.The Deputy Minister of Defence

and Military Veterans encouraged mil-itary personnel to further their studies,while the Department would improvetheir working conditions.

"These graduates will make theSANDF realise its objective of becom-ing one of the best managed andsophisticated defence forces, in parwith international standards. It is alsothe wish of the Department to ensurethat these graduates are for keeps, andit will ensure that the military workingconditions are improved, includingthat the salaries dispensation is alignedwith their qualifications," said MrMakwetla to loud cheering of the spectators.

He also encouraged other militarypersonnel to strive to obtain skills inorder to remain competitive and sorestore a sense of self-worth to the citi-


33

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE: SA Army Engineers students displaying their achievements, fltr: Lt Lindiwe Mashigo, Lt Lundi Ncubekezi and Lt Kgomotso Lodi at the Military Academy Awards function in Saldanha.

continent.Brig Gen Yam further said that the

graduates' achievements would nothave been possible without the supportstructure of various commanders andstaff members of the MilitaryAcademy, who went the extra mile toprovide support relevant to studentsfor their studies.

The Rector and Vice-Chancellor ofStellenbosch University, Prof RusselBotman, said that the University wouldcontinue to extend its support to theMilitary Science students to help theSANDF reach its constitutional man-date of providing peace and stability tothe country, as well as contribute to thecommunity upliftment project by com-bating poverty and disease throughtheir modern scientific research.

The Senior Director of StellenboschUniversity Library and InformationService, Ms Ellen Tise, who was theguest speaker at the graduation cere-mony, congratulated the graduates ontheir achievement and encouragedthem to make a contribution to theeconomy of the country: "You must beimmensely proud to have graduatedform this prestigious institution wherenot everyone gets the opportunity tostudy. This current economic crisis

may have dampened your spirits inyour studies with a prospect of uncer-tainty about your employment; howev-er slowly but surely everything isbeginning to shape up. As graduatesthe world outside is waiting for youand you will be judged on your contri-bution to the growth of the economy ofthe country" concluded Tise.

AWARDSThe Best Overall Military Science

graduates from three Services whoobtained outstanding military honoursfor their outstanding achievements:SA Army Floating Trophy, Sword ofHonour and the Chief of the SA ArmyBook: 2 Lt Frans MnisiSA Navy Floating Trophy:Ensign Maphuti Prince RatauSAMHS Floating Trophy:Lt Zinhle NyathiBest Subject Awards awarded to stu-dents in each subject per year groupwho received an average of 75% were:Lt Lindiwe Mashigo (Contract Law II83%, Applied Commercial Law II 78%,Interpretation of Statutes II, Book Prize83% and Public DevelopmentManagement II 76%)2Lt Refiloe Matsimbe(Applied Labour Law III 75%)

Lt Lundi Ncubekezi(Military Management II 77%, Military Geography II 77%)2Lt Evert Kleynhans(Political Science III 75%)2Lt Cadene Nabbie(Military Strategy III 75%)

Programme Awards recipientsawarded to the final year students ineach B Mil Programme who provideda minimum of 70% were: 2Lt Isabel Mashitoa 70% in Orga-nisation and Resource Management.She also received the SAIPA WesternCape Floating Trophy for attaining thebest results, viz 75% during threeyears of study in Public andDevelopment Management and theP.G.J. de Vos Medal for best resultsover the three years of undergraduatestudy.

The Mazisa Floating Trophy wasawarded to 2Lt Chantal Fleischmannfor rendering the most commendableprofessional academic community ser-vice during the current academic year.

The Directorate GeographicInformation Floating Trophy for thebest results in Military TerrainAnalysis and Geographic Informationsystems was awarded to Lt KgomotsoLodi, who obtained 72%.

zens of the country. Hesaid that this would alsocontribute to the massskilling of the populationand ensure the recovery ofthe economy of the countrythrough the deployment ofengineers in the SANDF tostruggling rural municipal-ities to help build bridges,roads and related infras-tructure.

Brig Gen Lindile Yam,the Commandant of theMilitary Academy, whichis part of the Faculty ofMilitary Science at theStellenbosch University,said that the Academy wasthe flagship in efforts toensure a sense of self-worth and high discipline,which is the prerogative ofthe Military Academy indelivering the best devel-oped defence force on the

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Chief of the SA Armyawards excellenceArticle and photos by S SgtLebogang Tlhaole

ard work, dedication and per-severance make ordinary sol-diers extraordinary. TheChief of the SA Army, Lt GenSolly Shoke, paid tribute tothe men and women in theSA Army that had through

hard work, determination and a strongbelief in themselves excelled in theirrespective fields.

To highlight this achievements ofsoldiers and the high standardsachieved either individually or as a partof a team, these achievers wereacknowledged during the Chief of theSA Army 2009 Awards Ceremony heldat the School of Armour inBloemfontein on 26 November 2009.

The day was dedicated to each manand woman who through hard workand determination had excelled andearned respect among his or her peers.They were given awards in various mil-itary skills and sport competitions.

Team Category: School of ArmourRank Category:

Rfn to Cpl - Cpl D.J.P. de Bus(School of Armour)

Sgt to WO2 - S Sgt J.J. Strydom(School of Armour)

WO1 - WO1 P. Peschel (School of Armour)

CO to Capt - Capt W. Gerryts(Infantry School)

Maj to Lt Col - Maj H. Terblanche (1 Special Service Battalion)

Col to Gen - Col L.J. Buys (SA Army Combat Training Centre)Novice Category: Rfn V.K. Khwerana(5 SAI Bn)

RESERVE FORCEOpen Category:WO2 A.F. Smythe (Natal Carbineers)Regular vs Reserve: Best Team -School of Armour (White Horse Shooting Trophy)Reserve Force Team: Regiment Pre-sident Steyn (Winners of Gold Cup) Team Development: Vrystaat Artillerie Regiment Development

HIndividual: WO2 A.F. Smythe (Natal Carbineers) (Winner of theRembrandt Trophy)

Rank Category:Rfn to Cpl - Cpl J.H. Karsten

(Regiment President Steyn)Sgt to WO2 - WO2 A.F. Smythe

(Natal Carbineers)WO1 - WO1 G.P.R. Dreyer

(Regiment De la Rey)CO to Capt - Lt E. Irle

(Witwatersrand Rifles)Maj to Lt Col - Maj L.A. Korff

(Regiment President Steyn)Ladies: Gnr A. Wink (Vrystaat Artillerie Regiment)Individual Development: L Cpl R.W.Mentor (Regiment President Steyn)

Warrant Officers and Non-commissioned OfficersSkills Competition

This competition was instituted in1995 by the former Sergeant Major of theSA Army, WO1 Koos Moorcroft, withthe aim of uplifting the WOs and NCOs

Members of the Vrystaat Artillerie Regiment were awarded for their outstandingshooting skills, fltr: Gunner A. Wink (best ladies shottist), Maj A. Smart (OfficerCommanding Vrystaat Artillerie Regiment), Gunner Kolosa (Developmental Team)and MWO H. Beyers. (Photo: Lourens Botha)

The Annual Chief ArmyShooting CompetitionMusketry skills are some of the fun-damental skills required by all sol-diers. Combat rifle shooting is usedas an appropriate mechanism to pro-mote excellence in musketry skills.

Table 2 shooting resultsCategory A: Training Units andCorps School - School of EngineersCategory B: Operational Units - 1 SA Tank RegimentCategory C: HQ and Support Units- SA Army Armour Formation

Combat rifle resultsREGULAR FORCEOpen Category: Best OverallShottist - WO1 P. Peschel (School ofArmour)


35

in the SA Army by emphasising goodmilitary general knowledge, discipline,fitness, musketry skills, map-readingand general appearance. There are twofacets to the competition, namelyIndividual and Pace Stick.

INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONFittest Member: Sgt S.S. Makooe (35 Engineer Support Regiment)Best Shottist: L Cpl V.H. Fillis (School of Armour)Lance Corporal of the Year:L Cpl H. Fillis (School of Armour)Corporal of the Year: Cpl D.J.P. de Bus(School of Armour)Sergeant of the Year: Sgt P.M.

Mvandaba (1 Parachute Regiment)Staff Sergeant of the Year:S Sgt R.C. Els (School of Armour)Warrant Officer of the Year:MWO S. Louw (1 Parachute Regiment)

PACE STICK COMPETITIONBest Team: Infantry Formation - 10 SAI BnBest Driver: WO2 T.B. Makhasane - 3 SAI BnBest Sticker: Sgt J. Louw - SA Army Combat Training Centre

Chief SANDF Military SkillsCompetition

The SANDF was invited via the

sented South Africa in the All StylesCommonwealth Games in Johannesburg.

SA Army Sportswoman of the Year:Maj W.J. Mathewson (ASB Kimberley)for bowls. This member was selected torepresent South Africa in the PeteRichard International InvitationTournament.

SA Army Sports Administrator ofthe Year: Lt Col J. Zietsman (DOD) formilitary pentathlon. This member is amember of the CISM MilitaryPentathlon Jury selected by representa-tives from 52 countries.

>> on page 36

Maj Gen Nkabinde, General Officer Commanding Infantry Formation, handing overthe trophy to Sgt S. MaKgoe from 35 Engineer Support Regiment as the FittestMember during the Warrant and NCO Military Skills Competition held at SA ArmyGymnasium for the year 2009.

Reserve Force Council to partici-pate as a guest of the Confeder-ation of Inter-allied ReserveForce Officers in their annualmilitary skills competition. InMarch 2009 the team participat-ed in Bulgaria. The NATOMilitary Skills Competition isorganised in a spirit of fair playand promotion of better under-standing between officers of thecountries of the AtlanticAlliance.

SA Reserve WinnersShooting: 2Lt Murray(Cape Town Highlanders)Land Obstacle: Gnr Gumede(Transvaal Horse Artillery)Water Obstacle: 2Lt Murray(Cape Town Highlanders) Hand Grenade: Pte Mfeka (Durban Light Infantry)Cross-country: Gnr Gumede (Transvaal Horse Artillery)Best Team SA Reserve:Cape Town Highlanders

SA Army SportsPersonalities of the Year2009

These are awards to mem-bers who have made an out-standing contribution to thedevelopment of sport and also tothe men and women at all levelswho have been winners in theirspecific sporting codes.

SA Army Sportsman of theYear: Rfn H.R. Gqumo (SAArmy Combat Training Centre)for karate. This member repre-

Maj Gen Nkabinde, General Officer Commanding Infantry Formation, handing overthe trophy to Col R. van Zanten on behalf of WO2 A.F. Smythe, as the Best Shottist.

events


36

Article and photos by S SgtLebogang Tlhaole

n spite of all the challenges wemet during the course of theyear, I remain confident that theDivision has succeeded in livingup to its vision of rendering ahuman resource managementservice beyond expectations,"

said Lt Gen Derick Mgwebi, ChiefHuman Resources, during his PrestigeGala Event held at the CSIR in Pretoriaon 27 November 2009.

The Human Resources (HR)Division presents the event annuallyto recognise its members for outstand-ing contributions during the year andto motivate units and bases in theDepartment to remove barriers thatimpact negatively on people with dis-abilities in terms of their individualneeds in the working environment.

The rights of people with disabili-ties are protected by the Constitution.Government departments have theresponsibility to ensure this in eachline function. Concrete steps are takento ensure that people with disabilitiesare able to access the same fundamen-tal rights and responsibilities as anyother South African and also to enjoythe privileges of every citizen.

To encourage Services andDivision to go the extra mile in mak-ing their working environment acces-sible, a DOD Disability Equity Unit ofthe Year Award was presented duringthe Gala Dinner.

Thanking all the members in hisDivision for working tirelessly Lt GenMgwebi said that it was not an easyroad. He expressed his sincere appre-ciation to all Chief Directors, GeneralOfficers Commanding and Directorsfor the support they had demonstrat-ed during the course of the year.

"I trust that all challenges that wefaced only made the HR Divisionstronger and more eager to deliverthrough our obligation towards thepersonnel of the Department" said LtGen Mgwebi.

He thanked the organisers of theevent for a job well done: "The timeand hard work that you have put into

I>> from page 35

SA Army Sports Official of the Year:Maj J.J. Wahl (School of Armour) forswimming and sport for people withdisabilities. This member is a coach ofthe SA Physically Disabled OlympicSwimming Team and has also beenidentified as one of the coaches for the2012 Swimming Olympics.

SA Army Veteran Sports Person ofthe Year: S Sgt V.V. Fraser (ASC EasternCape) for bodybuilding. The memberrepresented the RSA in an internationalcompetition between the RSA andBotswana.

SA Army Special Merit AwardsL Cpl M.T. Moaneno (1 SA Tank

Regiment) for endurance walking, athletics and military pentathlon.

Pte F.J. Mbance (Prince Alfred'sGuard) for triathlon.

WO2 H.E. Ferris (ASB Kimberley)for life-saving.

Cpl B.M. Seleka (Regiment De laRey) for combat rifle shooting.

Lt Col W. Klinck (Service CorpsRegional Office Kimberley) for soccer.

Military Sports Club of the Year:Military Sports Club Bloemfontein

SA Army Physical FitnessTrophyCategory A: School and Training Units- ADA SchoolCategory B: Operational Units -1 Special Service BattalionCategory C: Headquarters -ASB Eastern Cape

SA Army Fittest SoldierMale younger than 35 years:Gnr R.J. Mashapu (4 Artillery Regiment)Male between 35 and 44 years:Sgt H.L. Fourie (1 Parachute Regiment)Male 45 years and olderPte S.G. Shongoane (ASB Limpopo)Female younger than 30 YearsTpr T.M. Makhubu (1 Special Service Battalion)Female between 30 and 39 years:S Sgt S. Pieters (School of Armour)Female 40 years and older:Sgt S.B. Sawula (101 ASU)Fittest Headquarters: All participatingmembers work at the same HQ level(levels 2 and 3). The team consists of

three participants and a team captainand consists of a male between the agesof 35 and 44 years, a male member of 45years or older and a female of any age.SA Army Headquarters: Maj H.Motaung (Team Captain), WO2 H.W.Matoeka, Sgt M.J. Seelamo and Rfn B.M. Swafo.Formation HQ Team: SA ArmyArmour Formation: 1 Special ServiceBattalion (Maj J.J. Wahl: Team Captain,Capt D.T. Sekoere, Tpr M.S. Lesirela andTpr T.M. Makhubu.Fittest Unit: All members must bestaffed in the same unit. Team consistsof a male up to 34 years of age, malemember between 35 and 44 years of age,a male member older than 45 years anda female of any age. Unit Team: 1 Special Service Battalion(Capt D. Toli: Team Captain, Capt D.T.Sekoere, Tpr S.I. Lesirela, Tpr M.S.Makhubu and Tpr S.I. Shongoane).Fittest Senior Soldier: The participantsin this category should be from any gen-eral office, any three star Warrant Of-ficer, any appointed RSM, any appoint-ed Unit Commander and of any age orgender. The test included a 13 km run ofwhich 700 m is through a crusher (veryrough and undulating terrain) with arucksack filled with a 15 kg sandbag. SA Army Senior Soldier:Lt Col A. Nziweni (OC 3 SAI Bn).

SANDF Fittest SoldierThe SA Army participates against

the Services and Divisions.SANDF Fittest Male Soldier: Rfn R.Mamanyuwa (1 Parachute Regiment).SANDF Fittest Female Soldier: RfnM.L. Motebele (1 Parachute Regiment).SANDF Fittest Male 45 years and older(tie): Sgt O.P. Batantse (4 ArtilleryRegiment) and L Cpl T.H. Makwabe (14 SAI Bn).SANDF Fittest Formation/Unit Team:Infantry Formation (Maj B.B. Molekane(1 Parachute Regiment), L Cpl T.M.Macwabe (14 SAI Bn), Rfn C.C. Malgas,SNMP M.A. Gaye (1 SAI Bn) and Rfn T.R. Mpai (4 SAI Bn).SANDF Fittest Service: SA Army Team(Lt Col L. Janeke: Team Captain (ArmyHQ), Sgt H.L. Fourie (1 ParachuteRegiment), Sgt O.P. Batantse (4 ArtilleryRegiment), Rfn R. Mamanyuwa (1Parachute Regiment) and Rfn M.L.Motebele (1 Parachute Regiment).

“


37

Chief Human Resourcesprestige gala event

Lt Gen Derick Mgwebi, Chief Human Resources, handing over a trophy andcertificate to the Officer Commanding of AFB Langebaanweg, Col KennethPetso, for heading the Best Disability Equity Unit of the Year.

the preparation of this event indeed paid off,thank you. To the HR Division members, youknow where we come from and you know whatwe went through together: your efforts andendeavours are noted with gratitude".

WinnersWinners of the Disability Unit of the Year

Awards were the following units:The Most Improved Disability Equity Unit:

AFB YsterplaatThe Most Accessible Disability Equity Unit:

Pretoria Military Sports ClubThe UBUNTU Disability Equity Unit:

Personnel Service SchoolDisability Equity Unit:

AFB Langebaanweg

Lt Gen Derick Mgwebi, ChiefHuman Resources, arriving at thegala dinner accompanied by hisspouse, Ms Busisiwe Mgwebi.

insight


38

would be put at the disposal of theFIFA 2010 World Cup in the citieswhere the games are to be played.

National government is responsiblefor 17 guarantees made to FIFA.Medical care was one of these guaran-tees contained in the bid book. Theyare required of any country that wish-es to host the World Cup.

The 17 guarantees provided by var-ious government departments coveraccess to South Africa, a supportivefinancial environment, intellectualproperty and marketing rights, safetyand security, healthcare services, trans-port and telecommunications.

These guarantees were consolidat-ed into an Act of Parliament inSeptember 2006, viz the Special

7 Medical Battalion Group demonstrating hot extraction, much to the delight of those inattendance.

Measures Act, as per FIFA require-ments. In addition, a Memorandum ofUnderstanding was signed betweenthe Minister of Finance and thePresident of FIFA on 27 October 2006dealing with tax matters for the host-ing of FIFA events. This memorandumforms the basis of amendments to theValue Added Tax Act, Income Tax Actand the Customs and Excise Act.

The other guarantees are:Entry and exit permits by theMinistry of Home Affairs.Media centre(s) by the Ministry ofCommunications.Work permits by the Ministry ofHome Affairs.Transport by the Ministry ofTransport.

SAMHS to supportFIFA 2010 World Cup

By Milmed Staff Reporter

ith the eyes of the worldfocusing on South Africawith the coming FIFA2010 World Cup, the SAMilitary Health Service(SAMHS) is ready to playits part in this wonderful

opportunity to ensure that visitors toour shores experience world-classmedical assistance when needed.

The Minister of Health of SouthAfrica gave FIFA the assurance thatthe infrastructure of the South AfricanNational Health System, specifically acomprehensive medical service(including 24-hour emergency medicaltreatment) and disaster management,

W

Customs duties andtaxes by the Ministryof Finance.Immigration, cus-toms and check-inprocedures by theMinistry of HomeAffairs.Other taxes, dutiesand levies by theMinistry of Finance.Pricing policy by theMinistry of Environ-mental Affairs andTourism.Safety and security bythe Ministry of Safetyand Security.FIFA's ownership ofmedia and marketingrights by the Ministryof Communicationsand the Ministry ofTrade and IndustryBank and foreign-exchange operations


39

by the Ministry of Finance.Exploitation of marketing rights bythe Ministry of Trade and Industry.Telecommunications and informa-tion technology by the Ministry ofCommunications.Indemnity by the Ministry of Justiceand Constitutional Development.International Broadcast Centre bythe Ministry of Communications.National Anthems and Flags by theMinistry of Foreign Affairs.Medical care by the Ministry ofHealth.

National Health OperationsCentre

As one of the key role-players of theNational Health Care System theSAMHS will form part of the NationalHealth Operations Centre (Nathoc) andwill support the National Departmentof Health to ensure these commitmentsare met.

During the FIFA 2010 World Cup,

the Nathoc will link up with all nineprovinces, ensuring real-time moni-toring, collating and reporting on theroll-out of the health plan, as well asthe occurrence of any incidents. Asophisticated ICT system, includingan online system for all officialvenues and radio linkages, will bethe backbone of Nathoc.

Free primary healthcare will beprovided for all spectators at officialvenues, including a script or referralto a health facility if necessary.However, any investigations, proce-dures or admissions will be paid bythe patient.

Dispensing machines will be situ-ated throughout the stadiums forbasic drug purchases. Twenty-four-hour pharmacies will be in place forthe duration of the event.

A health specialist from theDepartment of Health was involvedin the planning of new stadiums andthe refurbishment of existing ones to

ensure they meet the health and medicalservices requirements. All stadiums willhave fully equipped medical centres,medical primary healthcare posts, aswell as roving health personnel withinthe stadium and stadium precincts. Suchprovisions will also be in place in fanparks and other official World Cuprelated venues as required.

The environmental health of venueswill be assured, including stadiums,hotels, official venues and fan parks. Thiswill include food standards, sufficientand safe water, sanitation and wastemanagement.

Compliance with legislation and localand international health regulations byvisitors entering the country will be con-trolled at all ports of entry, including air,land and sea. In addition to surveillancemeasures for local disease outbreaks,there will also be an internationalsurveillance system, given the variousorigins of the many thousands of visitorsthat South Africa can expect.

Contingency planningContingency planning to deal with

disasters was undertaken in conjunctionwith the SAMHS, the South AfricanPolice Service, National IntelligenceAgency, and fire and disaster-manage-ment services. Resources to deal withcontingencies will be deployed at strate-gic positions for the duration of allmatches, as well as any site that may beconsidered necessary.

This is the fourth year of preparationfor the FIFA 2010 World Cup and mem-bers of the SAMHS were already part ofexercises in all our provinces. These exer-cises were based on previous eventsand lessons learned, not only from othermass sporting events, but also fromevents such as the World Summit onSustainable Development in 2002 andthe Non-Aligned Movement Summit in1998. South Africa has already made itsmark as a host to so many successfulevents. With only days to go to the kick-off, South Africa will once again deliveron its promises as the host country, andthe SAMHS will be part of this. We willnever forget the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

* Some information received from theofficial Government 2010 website atwww.sa2010.gov.za

7 Medical Battalion Group in conjuction with the SA Air Force demonstrating an air evacuation.

insight


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The Digital Map Index ofAfrica is now availableBy Sulette van der Merwe, SITA GIS SpecialistPhoto: Capt Dewald du Toit

he Digital Map Index was com-pleted by the SA ArmyEngineer Formation TerrainIntelligence under the guid-ance of the System Owner, ColAndries Mahapa, and theProject Officer SO2 GIS, Maj

Elmarie Nel. Ms Hanlie Lundie fromSITA also formed an integral part of theproject.

The SITA Project Manager, Sulettevan der Merwe, gives an update on theDigital Map Index (DMI) of the SANDF.

The DMI is a catalogue of electronicgeo-spatial data of African countriesthat is available from the SA ArmyEngineer Formation. It enables users toorder the electronic data of their choice.

In 2007 the SA Army EngineerFormation decided to update theGeoIDNet system, which represented

T

Fltr: Ms Sulette van der Merwe, SITA GIS Specialist, Maj Elmarie Nel, SO2 GIS, and Ms Hanlie Lundie, SITA Mapping Specialist.

its digital geo-spatial data graphically.The Executive Board of this formationdecided to make this data accessible tothe SANDF as a web service.

Maps were compiled with the widelyused Arc Software and published withArcServer. The data was sourced, sorted,evaluated, quality assured and namedaccording to the approved standardnaming convention.

An overview map was built and thedata organised according to type. Eachservice was customised to do specificqueries, eg search map numbers andnames. A customised printing facilitywas added.

The use of the DMIThe DMI provides an overview of a

selected African country and makesraster, vector and elevation data avail-able for that country.

It is important to note that the DMIwill neither display the actual digitaldata nor enable the downloading of data.

Such data must be requested by meansof the order form.

Information indicated on the index-es, when available, includes individualmap sheet numbers, map names, NSNnumbers and map editions. The data isorganised according to scale, whether itis georeferenced or not, and the type ofmap.

DMI time frameThe DMI is being developed in three

phases. Phase 1 addresses the RSA,neighbouring countries and deployedcountries. This was implemented on 11September 2009 and is now available.Phase 2, still to be completed, addressesthe remaining South AfricanDevelopment Community (SADC)countries. Phase 3 will address the otherAfrican countries.

Where to find the DMI? Use InternetExplorer to open the DOD Home Pageat http://www.mil.za:8080/ while con-nected to the DOD network. Visit the'SA Army Home Page' and follow the'Engineer Formation' link to the 'DMIHome Page'. Alternatively use theQuick Link at the bottom of the DODHome Page or use this URL:http://engfmn.army.mil.za:8080/DMI/DMI.htm.

Using the DMISelect a country from the DMI

Home Page. A web page will open withan overview of the country. Tick theboxes to see what digital data is avail-able for each country. Follow theinstructions on the website.

Ordering data and contact information

Locate the order form on the DMIHome Page, complete and submit it toreceive a task reference number. Liaisewith the SA Army Engineer Formationto collect the data. For further informa-tion, visit the DMI Home Page.


41

By Cpl Ally RakomaPhoto: Mr Johan Kruger

A Soldier was invited to theTshwane Mail Centre inPretoria on 11 December2009 to witness the SouthAfrican Post Office turningpromises into prospects byproviding training in mail

handling to ten Military SkillsDevelopment System (MSDS) mem-bers from Gauteng Signal Unit.

The training, combining theoryand practicals is presented over a peri-od of eleven weeks and culminates ina qualification that is registered on theNational Qualification Framework(NQF) Level 3. It entails the following:numeracy, communication, basic com-puter, labour legislation, process mailitems, process mail parcels, receiveand prepare mail, record mail infor-

Smation, operate automated machineand deliver mail items.

Speaking to SA Soldier, Ms RoseKgopa, the SA Post Office EducationalTraining Development Facilitator, saidthat in terms of what the trainingentailed, the trainees must complete aperiod of their learnership in a work-ing environment where they are ableto demonstrate the acquired skillsbefore receiving their qualifications orcertificates.

Their training includes field trips tocivilian Post Offices where they canexperience the practical working environment.

"Our relationship as the SA PostOffice with the SANDF involves shar-ing knowledge, producing results byenhancing the skills of the labour forceand thereby increasing efficiency.These young men and women are asound investment for both the SA Post

Military Skills Development System members sorting mail during their training (far right) Ms Rose Mukwevho, the Process Supervisor, and Ms Rose Kgopa, the ETDP Facilitator, at the Tshwane Mail Centre.

Office and the SANDF," said Ms Kgopa.

The efforts of the Department toencourage the youngsters to see theSANDF as the employer of choice areproducing visible results. SignalmanMelani Alpaugh emphasised theimportance of their training, saying:"Being at the service of humanity weare gaining valuable experience,including marketing skills. This willhelp us to diversify and to ventureinto business activities and opportuni-ties in the future".

Signalman Puleng Mafanyolleproudly said: "We have learnt how todeal with clients and acquainted our-selves with the rules and regulationsof the SA Post Office and its ethics.Being in the information and commu-nication technology environment wewant to realise our dreams, ambitionsand be true to our calling."

Turning promisesinto prospects


42

VERSE 1 (isiXhosa and isiZulu)(Afrikaans phonetic pronunciation below)

kosi Sikelel' iAfrikan-kô-sie Sie-kê-lê-lie-Afrika

Maluphakanyisw'uphondo lwayo,ma-loe-pa-ka-njie-swa oe-pondô-lwaai-jô

Yizwa imithandazo yethu,jie-zwa-ie-mie-tan-da-zô jê-toe

Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.n-kô-sie sie-kê-lê-la, tie-na-loe-sa-pô lwa-jô

VERSE 2 (Sesotho)(phonetic pronunciation below)

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso,mo-rê-na bo-lo-ka si-tja-ba sa hê-so

O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho,o fê-die-sê dien-twa li mats-wên je-ho

O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba saheso,o si bo-lo-kê, o si bo-lo-kê si-tja-ba-sa-hê-so

Setjhaba sa South Afrika - South Afrika.si-tja-ba sa South Afrika - South Africa

VERSE 3 (Afrikaans)

Uit die blou van onse hemel,Uit die diepte van ons see,Oor ons ewige gebergtes,Waar die kranse antwoord gee.

VERSE 4 (English)

Sounds the call to come together,And united we shall stand,Let us live and strive for freedom,In South Africa our land.

NATIONAL ANTHEM OF SOUTH AFRICA

N

By Kgabo Mashamaite

mmediately after the year-endparade on the grounds of the

Military Academy in Saldanha thestudents and personnel were hard atwork, cleaning and restoring the placeto its former glory.

The Military Academy is part ofthe Faculty of Military Science of theStellenbosch University and it offersdeserving members of the SANDF theopportunity to study for a three-yearBachelor of Military Science degree.The members will, upon completingtheir three years of study, be awardedwith their degrees at a formal gradua-tion ceremony to be held on the uni-

versity premises at Stellenbosch.As per the military tradition to

honour the achievement of their mem-bers, the academy holds the parade tocompliment the successful studentseach year.

The Military Academy is situatedin Saldanha Bay, which is the home ofendangered species such as crayfish(rock lobster) and abalone ("per-lemoen"). According to the SouthAfrican National Parks Board, thebody responsible for nature conserva-tion, the removal of any of the above-mentioned organisms from the area isa highly punishable offence which car-ries a stiff sentence.

According to the West Coast

Why keeping Saldanha Bay clean is important

I

National Parks' document on MarineManagement, entitled ParkManagement Plan of October 2006,Saldanha Bay is described as home todiverse marine fishes and flora. It isalso a freshwater wetland.

Saldana Municipality has also beenzoned by the West Coast NationalPark as part of the High IntensityLeisure Zone because of the high con-centration of various human activities,and it is therefore important to dis-courage littering. A full-scale cleaningoperation will be launched after theevent.

Additional information courtesy:http://celtis.sanparks.org/conserva-tion/park_man/westcoast

clippings


43

By Capt Ntsikie Ngcobo, AreaProvost Marshal Ladysmith MilitaryPolice

embers of the LadysmithMilitary Police went all theway despite being few innumber. The majority werein the ranks private to staffsergeant. They were mak-ing the point that crime in

their area of responsibility was beingtackled head on with no excuses. Themembers' commitment included vol-unteering to work after hours and onholidays and weekends as most crimi-nal activities occur at such times.

Indeed this action brought moresuccesses and led to the winning backof the clients' confidence. Clients start-ed giving information to members ofthe Military Police as they knew theirinformation would be followed andinvestigated. This unit embarked on acampaign to highlight the abuse ofwomen and children and distributed a

Mnewsletter to members of LadysmithMilitary Base informing them aboutimportant contact numbers, such as theStop women abuse hotline:

0800 150 150 and Stop child abuse hotline: 0800 05 55 55because abuse can happen in our fami-lies and in those of our neighbours.

As a result of all this dedicationLadysmith Military Police Area Officescooped four trophies at the award cer-emony of Central Military Police (MP)Region in Bloemfontein on 27 Nov-ember 2009. These were: Best Investi-gation Unit in the Central MP Region,Best Crime Prevention Unit in theCentral MP Region, Best Unit inManaging Military Vehicles in theCentral MP Region and Best Unit inFitness Training. Members received atrophy from the Officer CommandingASB KwaZulu-Natal for the No 1 posi-tion in ASB KZN Battle AthleticsCompetition on 7 October 2009, includ-ing a trophy from the Provost MarshalGeneral for individual effort during the

Members of Ladysmith Military Police with Capt Ntsikie Ngcobo, Area ProvostMarshal Ladysmith Military Police, displaying their achievements of 2009.

Military Police Division Prestige eventheld in Pretoria MP School on 6 August2009. Every success counts as thismakes members want to excel, as couldbe seen during the Central MP AwardCeremony.

The driving force behind all thesuccesses was service delivering with-out excuses, ie just doing the job we arepaid for. Members appreciated thesupport and co-operation that camefrom ASB KZN members, 5 SA Infan-try Battalion personnel, LadysmithHealth Community Centre, LegsatoLadysmith Office, FASO Ladysmith,SAPS Ladysmith and the LocalCriminal Record Centre, all MilitaryPolice offices in the region, DurbanMilitary Police in particular and theRegional Headquarters in Bloem-fontein. Together we can do more tofight crime in our area in 2010 andbeyond. On a sad note Ladysmith MPlost a dedicated and true police official,Sgt Nosipho Linda, on 11 December2009. She was laid to rest on 19

Service deliverywith no excuses

December 2009. She was a com-mitted investigator who neverwanted to be given special treat-ment as a woman. Although shewas married she would be avail-able anytime when needed toperform her duties with noexcuses, and always on time. Sheknew very well that time is life inthe SANDF, unlike in the corpo-rate world where time is money.She would be present at all unitactivities, such as weekly physi-cal training, fitness tests, sport,LTUs, etc. The passion she hadfor her job and her enthusiasmfor service delivery contributedto the 2009 success of LadysmithMP. May her soul rest in peace.

* Be the eyes and ears of theMilitary Police: Crime line 0800 222 091.

focus on women


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By Lt Col Maryna Butcher, Officer Commanding EngineerTerrain Intelligence RegimentPhotos: Courtesy 1 MilitaryPrinting Regiment

ince 1999 the SA Army hasbeen planning to be moresufficient and effective and anew design in terms of theForce Structures has been inthe pipeline. The differentoptions in terms of how to

structure the SA Army have not madethe task any easier.

The "reduced" Force Structure of12 January 1999 with its 24 800 postscould not be implemented as theoperational requirements for internaloperations exceeded the capacity ofthe conventionally based force struc-ture. The "approved" Force Structurewith 32 000 posts could also, not beimplemented for the same reason. TheSA Army's "transitional" ForceStructure of 7 February 2000 wasimplemented mainly to ensure theoperational requirements of missionsin support of the SA Police Service(SAPS). These 33 000 posts were creat-ed as an interim measure until thenew DOD Force Structure could beapproved.

The "affordable" Force Structure(2002) consisted of 28 000 posts andaddressed the requirements of mis-sions in support of regional securityand the retention of conventional coregrowth capabilities. Althoughapproved it was not implemented. In2002 it became clear that the adap-

S

tions to the Affordable Force Structurewere required to address deficienciesand the "transitional" Force Structurewas discarded. In this process 33 000posts were adapted for missions ofregional security. Certain force struc-ture changes were identified and theamalgamation of 4 Survey andMapping Regiment and 1 MilitaryPrinting Regiment was ordered as oneof the changes.

47 Survey Squadron (now 4Survey and Mapping Regiment) and 1Military Printing Regiment (1 MPR)were established in 1975 as two units,each with its own role in support ofthe then SADF. Both units developedinto independent units with mandatesto deliver an end product utilised by

Lt Col Maryna Butcher, Officer Commanding Engineer Terrain IntelligenceRegiment.

SA Army plans to be more sufficient and effective

almost every soldier, viz a map. 47Survey Squadron produced the repro-duction material used in the maps offoreign countries, the RSA border andmilitary training areas, while 1Military Printing Regiment wasresponsible for the printing of themaps. In 1992 the name 47 SurveySquadron changed to 4 Survey andMapping Regiment. Both units wererelocated from their respective alloca-tions (1 MPR in Koedoespoort and 4Survey and Mapping Regiment (4SMR) in Germiston) to SappersHeights in Pretoria in 1994. Thisbrought the two units closer to eachother and resulted in a product manu-factured by the two units.

The Terrain Intelligence Regiment


45

By Sgt Thabang Bapela, Ad AstraPhoto: WO2 DavidNomtshongwana

ol Elsa Zimmer, an officer in the SAAir Force, was born in Zeerust in

North West, a typical bushveld town.It is the closest South African town toGaborone, the capital of Botswana.She attended school and obtained hermatric in Zeerust.

She joined the SA Air Force in 1975and reckons that aircraft and flyingattracted her to the SA Air Force. Sheserved as an Air Traffic Controller atAir Force Base (AFB) Swartkop, AFBWaterkloof, AFB Hoedspruit and AFBLangebaanweg.

Asked by Ad Astra how she feltabout transformation, she replied:"During the political transition, I sawmyself approaching the work situa-tion differently - for the better in termsof attitude and understanding, espe-cially when promoting a healthierunderstanding among members of allraces in order to support an efficient

training programme". Col Zimmer iscurrently the Officer CommandingBushveld Airspace Control Sector and

Col Elsa Zimmer, OfficerCommanding Bushveld AirspaceControl Sector.

she notes that her vision for the nextfive years is to provide a centre ofexcellence while securing the nation-al airspace.

The highlight of her career waswhen she was appointed as SeniorStaff Officer Air Traffic Managementat Directorate Command andControl Systems.

Her message to the youth is totake up a position of commitmentand dedication once they are surethat they have made a good choice.

She said that she would doeverything in her power to assistsenior management in finding solu-tions in terms of optimal recruit-ment. She would help them tochoose meaningful career paths forthose persons selected to join the SAAir Force.

Col Zimmer is married to Lt ColHans Zimmer, also in the SA AirForce, and currently working at AirCommand Directorate AviationSystems as Senior Staff OfficerAviation Safety.

Women in command

C

will be a combination of the two unitswith a clear mandate to provide oper-ational geographical support to clientswithin the DOD in the specific fieldsof mapping, surveying, navigation,terrain negotiability, printing andoperational photography. Both units,4 SMR and 1 MPR, underwentchanges within the past two years interms of technology upgrading andthis will enhance the service providedby the Engineer Terrain IntelligenceRegiment as it will be able to providedigital products as well as the oldhard copy product. The unit willdeploy internally and externally withthe mobile operational geographicsquadron that can provide the samecapabilities as the static unit stationedin Pretoria.

The new unit will be utilising thefacilities occupied previously by 1MPR and will be officially operatingas the new unit from 1 April 2010.

Engineer Terrain IntelligenceRegiment will be commanded and

WO1 Geraldine Gascoyne, RSM Engineer Terrain Intelligence Regiment.

managed by the newly appoint-ed Commanding Officer, Lt ColMaryna Butcher, and the RSM, WO1Geraldine Gascoyne. Both women

started their military careers at 47 Sur-vey Squadron as Sappers and contin-ued these careers within the EngineerCorps.

message


46

By Col (Past) M.C. Dladla, DefenceIntelligence Division

he Golden Rule "Do unto oth-ers as you would like them todo unto you" is the essence ofthe subject we are dealingwith today. Human dignityand respect are the core func-tions of a healthy human

being. All of us have an innate right tobe respected and treated with dignity.One who disregards the potential, thepurpose and the significance of others'lives will not survive the present test-ing times. Dignity and respect mani-fest themselves in patience, fairness,impartiality and communication,which are all part of the human spirit'sfunction, namely Fellowship. The keyto displaying human dignity andrespect towards others is to value our-selves first, then we would be free tovalue others in turn.

Human dignity and respect alsodo not exist in a vacuum, but must beinterpreted in the light of God's grace,for we were created in the "Image ofGod" and this fact gives us incrediblehuman dignity. When we experienceGod's grace we feel like sons anddaughters of God, the image of God isrestored in us and the dignity of theperson reappears. It reminds people oftheir place in the world. This truth isnot only valid and valuable for each ofus personally, but also assists us in theway we see and treat others. For thepoor and those who suffer discrimina-tion, for those not considered peoplein our society, this is good news. In acontext where the excluded, the non-person, abounds, the experience ofgrace makes people visible: it gives

T

them back their dignity.Grace is not only to be received

and experienced in a passive way.Grace is a life-changing gift thatenables us to radiate this grace in turnfrom our spirit, mind and body tomanifest it through our attitudes andpractices and not just through whatwe say. Grace is not limited to emo-tions or fleeting moods, but profound-ly transforms and renews our con-science, our body and the way we live.This gift is something that you did notearn or deserve for it comes freelyfrom the giving party, in this instancethe living God.

The effectiveness of grace, likefaith, is measured by our way of being,our honesty, our transparency, the sol-idarity that marks our lifestyle. God'sgrace must be radiated and shared. IfGod extends grace towards us, thenwe are also expected to act in a similar

Col (Past) M.C. Dladla.

Human dignity and respect

3 On which side are we when inno-cent children, young ladies, moth-ers and the poor are neglected,molested and abused?

4 How do we treat those affectedand infected by chronic diseases,whether self-inflicted or otherwise?

5 Do we give space or a chance tothose with physical challengeswithin our ranks?

6 Do we treat our partners andchildren with dignity and respect? The answer to these questions will

determine the extent of the effort thatwe will have to put in. I imagine thatwe must consider our attitudes (preju-dices), thoughts (stereotypes) andactions (discrimination) towards oth-ers according to human dignity andrespect. May the good Lord bless youas you answer to this call.

fashion towards our broth-ers and sisters who feelabandoned to the misfor-tunes of the world. Jesuswas hated by the Phariseesand Sadducees because Henever excluded othernations and cultures whenit came to God's grace(Remember the story of theGood Samaritan in Luke 10:30).

May I close with a fewpertinent questions? 1 How do we relate to

others? 2 How do we treat those

who are different?(Different does notmean inferior, it justmeans different).


47

By Cpl Ally RakomaPhoto: Sgt Elias Mahuma

eorge Washington Carveronce said: "How far you goin life depends on yourbeing tender with theyoung, compassionate withthe aged, sympathetic withthe striving and tolerant of

the weak and strong. Because somedayin life you will have been all of these."

On 22 January 2010 the SANDFSpouses Forum brought joy to less for-

Gtunate children in Inkululeko YesiswePrimary School near Vlakfontein inLenasia when they presented themwith Goodwill Parcel Project foodhampers.

Ms Ndifelani Mamphoto, theSchool Principal, told SA Soldier thatmany of the learners did not enjoy thecomforts of life like other children assome were orphans and others frompoor families. "The SANDF SpousesForum being here today gives them anextended family and a sense of pur-pose. They will stay courageous in the

A REFLECTION OF UBUNTU. Fltr: WO1 Sipho Fungayi from Joint Ops HQ, Ms Elizabeth Magalefa, Ms BusisiweNgwenya, the Chairperson of the SANDF Spouses Forum and wife of the Chief of the SANDF, Ms Ndifelani Mamphoto,the School Principal and Ms Anthea Schoeman during their visit to present the Goodwill Parcel Project Food Hampersat Inkululeko Yesiswe Primary School.

Bring courage in the midst of hopelessness

midst of hopelessness and discourage-ment," said Ms Mamphoto.

Ms Busisiwe Ngwenya, theChairperson of the SANDF SpousesForum, expressed the value of together-ness in helping to break the cycle ofpoverty. "These children bring so muchrichness to the world. Together we canchange the world, we are building a car-ing society. It is what we make withwhat we have, not what we are given.The SANDF is a State instrument that isa true reflection of UBUNTU," said MsNgwenya.

Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrikaMaluphakanyisw' uphondo lwayo,Yizwa imithandazo yethu,Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso,O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho,O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso,Setjhaba sa South Afrika - South Afrika.











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