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

From the Editor's desk

Letters:to the Editor

SA Army hands over a hospice

SADC Standby Force borne Exercise Golfinho

Royal Thai Armed Forces Chief receives a warmAfrican welcome

Provost Marshal Generalappointed in the USA

Siyandiza gives falconsanother military taste

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20 Showcasing the mightof the Engineer Corps

Suicide not aviable option to problems

New Hopefor the Disabled

Joint Operations Tactical HQ KZN

Musketry performance that inspired admiration

CISM ESALO Volleyballtournament a success

Let your feet do the walking…

SA Army Writing Competition

A spectacular Air Show display

Chief of the Army keynote address at Gender Conference

Her winning formula is unmatched

Defence Reserves'sproudest appointment

Strength + Passion+ Commitment = Success

SA Army Infantry Formation Commanders Pledge to beaccountable

Ensuring Efficiency of Defence Policies

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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 MahumaL Cpl 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 P. Tshabalala

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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O C T O B E R 2 0 0 9 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: The SADC Standby Force borne Exercise Golfinho:Participants perform simulation of medical support during the Exercise.(Photo: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole)

Above: The grand entrance of the functionaries during the VIP day at the SAArmy Training Combat Centre Lohatlha. Walking in front: Honourable FilipeNyussi, Defence Minister of Mozambique and Dr Tomaz Salomao, the SADCExecutive Secretary. Behind them are Dr Mathendele Dlamini, the Head ofMission SADC Standby Force and Maj Gen V.R. Masondo, the ExerciseDirector. (Photo: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole)

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From the Editor's desk

outh Africa hosted Exercise Golfinho, which was a multinational peacekeeping operation with over 6000 participants from differentsecurity forces and support elements. This Exercise was structured in three phases, the first being the MAPEX, which was the ini-tial part of the exercise followed by the CPX command post exercise, and lastly a training exercise called FTX, a month-long fieldtraining exercise at the SA Army Training Combat Centre in Lohatlha that took place from 1 to 28 September.

Read more about Exercise Golfinho on page 11.

On page 16 we bring an interview with the Provost Marshal General, Brig Gen Joseph Ledwaba, who assumed his new dutiesas a Defence Attaché in the USA. The Military Police Division bade him farewell after he had worked for six years as the Chief of the MilitaryPolice Agency.

What do the military do in a democratic state and in peacetime? We give answers to this question on pages 20 and 42, where we show youthat the SANDF is compassionate in meeting its social responsibilities roles, on page 20 read about members of SA Army Signal Formationand other members stationed at Wonderboom Military Base who took a moment off their work schedule to donate blood. on page 42 we bringyou the Casual Day celebrations when SA Army Signal Formation had the opportunity to demonstrate its social responsibility by revivinghopes of disabled children aged three years and upwards at the New Hope School in Menlyn.

In advancing women's empowerment and promoting recognition of women in the Department and the SANDF we bring you articles onpages 21 to 28 about women related issues, not because August was women's month but because we acknowledge that our sisters and mothersdo play a pivotal role in a democratic society and organisation.

You are reminded that the department has embarked on a project to curb qualified audits by the Auditor General. The approach adopted bythe Operation Clean Audit (OCA) team is to assist the DOD, firstly in identifying and confirming all of the root causes for the audit qualifi-cations, and secondly put measures in place to address thes root causes. On page 45 we publish an in-depth article on OCA.

Remember, October is cancer awareness month. The back outside cover acknowledges the cancer awareness month.

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Lufuno NetshirembeDeputy Editor

Erratum

SA Soldier would like to express its most sincere pardon to the Sudanese people for an error thatwas published on the September issue of the SA Soldier Magazine (special edition celebrating adecade of peacekeeping). This unfortunate mistake was on page 45 where the Flag of Central AfricanRepublic is erroneously printed in the place of the Sudanese flag. On behalf of the editorial team andthe DOD, we wholeheartedly regret this error and we would also like to emphasize that no disre-spect to the government and people of the Sudan was intended in any shape or form. Herewith isthe correct flag of Sudan.

We remain dedicated to reporting news with great journalistic integrity and precision.

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

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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.

PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICANAt work we all share office space, lifts,parking bays, bathrooms, boardroomsand many other facilities. Mutualrespect is a key aspect to maintainingsound working relationships. Goodmanners can help make work a pleas-ant experience.

The following two rules of eti-quette, among many, should beobserved at all times:

Chewing gum etiquette - As withanything else there is etiquette inregard to chewing and disposing ofgum. Here are some rules

Do not chew gum with yourmouth openChewing gum is a no-no in meet-ings

Do not talk to people and try tochew gum at the same time (espe-cially on phones)Do not chew gum during a mealThere should be no snapping ofgum and no bubble blowingFor heaven's sake, do not pull on it!Dispose of it in a responsible man-ner (not under furniture or in theurinal)If you work in an office you should

not be chewing gum. At work we are tolook professional, act professional andchewing gum does not add to thisappearance.

Boardroom etiquette - The board-room is the place in business where weare most under scrutiny. What we wear,

what we do and say or do not say, ourbody language and general demeanourare constantly under the microscope.The following rules and tips may be ofhelp:

Arrive earlyRemember to listenDo not interruptWait your turnPay attentionAttend the entire meetingKISS - Keep it straight and simple(time is a scarce commodity;nobody wants to listen to someonewith verbal diarrhoea)Observe protocol.

Mr E. Badenhorst, Pretoria

1 Special Service Battalion held aCelleno Parade on 10 June 2009. Dur-ing such parades, soldiers of theArmour Division commemorate theirfallen members. Ms Christa Kleynhanswrote a poem in memory of CaptAndrew Webb who passed away onthe Lesotho border on 13 August 2004.During the Celleno Parade, Ms Kleyn-hans read the poem and officially hand-ed it over to 1 Special Service Battalion.

A plea for world peaceBreaking the brightest of skies in flight Spreading its wings: couching-feeling thecurrents anticipating observing awaiting

Colours break in the blue bright intensity While onlookers stand around dazed inbewildermentThe flight draws to an end And the eagle stops circling and strikesdown Closing in on the prey

Frozen in time

ODE TO CAPTAIN ANDREW WEBBReality sinks in coldly as bodies start to shiv-er in shockEvery moment scares to spiral in surrealism And just stops abruptly

The eagle grasps sinks into the innocenceflash A last gasp of breach signals is the final actof defiance As the ferryman settles his debts

C'mon, Soldier Boy!It seems such a long pathIt seems such an endless journey

Drums beat deep discipline Into the sensitive, shy Perfection gleams mirror-like on boots Pride prances itself pristine ironed Glory reflects itself in many radiating facesof the nationA willingness to gain gloryThrough self-sacrifice called patriotism

The pride of a people reflects itself As testosterone-laden bodies fight a differentcause

Than the hand shoving them Dawn-likeover regionsHalf a good intention is aggravated throughpropagandaTo play the deadly overrated gamesSacrificing all morals for a heart playingthen wrong

Yet they marched on relentlessly full ofpride Toy soldiers on the board. Not regardedmore than replaceable Not aware of the roll of a dice that determinetheir face

Arms thrown on the ground. Peace treatiessigned All the peace in the world won't be enoughto bring him backAll thee prayers said won't be enough To work the miracle of hope, perspective andjustice

With all odds against them. They sincerelyserve and protectNot questioning the warrior motive of thesinister hands that just shove them into thedemon's cages day after day

Tears turn into ice As condolences are shared with the bereaved Sadly deceived By the duel cutting edged the dagger theydefended

March on, toy soldiersFor the sake of corrupted missionsMarch on, in total innocence for a mission That you know - in your heart - is pure. Christa Kleynhans


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Captain (SANR) Gerald Beaumont"Doc" O'Shea, who retired recentlyafter 33 years service in the SA Navy,passed away unexpectedly on 31August 2009. While serving his countryin uniform he fulfilled various roles atsea, as Officer Commanding SAS UNI-TIE and finally as the Senior OfficerMaritime Trade.

After completing his schooling in1960 at Kingswood College in Gra-hamstown, Doc joined the SA Navy asa volunteer and was drafted to SASSALDANHA. He clearly recalled that"in we went with long hair lookingscruffy and after the joining routine,medicals, allocation to dormitories andissuing of kit we emerged all lookingexactly the same!"

While undergoing basic training atSAS SALDANHA he observed that theband had several privileges. He soonjoined them as a base drummer andmade full use of the privileges on offer!After his year at the Naval Gymna-sium, Doc joined the Merchant Navyand then later enjoyed a career in bank-ing. In June 1978 Doc re-attested at SASDONKIN as a Leading Seaman beforehis subsequent appointment as a SubLieutenant. He served as the GunneryOfficer on board SAS OOSTERLANDand progressed to Navigator and laterFirst Lieutenant. During this period theSeaward Defence Boats (SDBs), i.e. SASOOSTERLAND and SAS GELDER-LAND were tasked with anti-poachingpatrols from East London to MosselBay. Two Reserve crews worked everyalternate weekend to ensure that fish-ing vessels had the correct licences andthat poachers were deterred from fish-ing in the area.

Doc, an ever enthusiastic small boatcoxswain, also participated in the test-ing of the experimental Harbour PatrolBoat (HPB), which was fitted withBMW engines. It had no cabin. Acourse as a Marine Officer as well ascourses in Communication and Navi-gation was tackled in Simon's Townand by November 1982 he had com-pleted his Bridge WatchkeepingCertificate. In January 1982 he wastransferred by Barclays Industrial Bankto Cape Town and joined SAS UNITIEwhere he served initially as theTraining Officer. Under his watch thefirst National Service Petty OfficersQualifying Course was conceptualisedand introduced after the curriculumwas approved.

His diplomatic nature was put togood use during the many Cape to Rio

races. SAS UNITIE established a closerelationship with the Royal Cape YachtClub and the many crews who used thefacilities. While at SAS UNITIE he suc-cessfully completed an OperationsRoom Supervisor course as well as a Ju-nior Staff and Warfare course. He assist-ed in the 1980's in assessing the Port ofCape Town as a national key point. Thiswas followed by the training of marinesstationed at SAS UNITIE to protect theport.

In October 1987 he was promoted toLieutenant Commander and appointedas the Executive Officer at SAS UNITIE.Doc highlighted the camaraderie at SASUNITIE as among his fondest memories.

He was promoted to Commander in1990 followed in 1991 by his appoint-ment as Officer Commanding, SAS UNI-TIE.

After conscription ended in 1992,Doc was instrumental in restructuringthe Permanent Force staff at SAS UNI-TIE and in ensuring that those commit-ted Naval Reserve volunteers whoremained were motivated. With thechange in 1994 he oversaw, as OC SASUNITIE, the lowering of the old nationalflag and the raising of the new"Rainbow" flag with all the decorumexpected of such a moment in history.

In March 1996 he handed over com-mand of SAS UNITIE and was promotedto the rank of Captain and joined theDirector Naval Reserves (DNR) staffwhere he was involved in rewriting theNaval Reserve Policy.

In September 2001 he retired fromhis civilian employment at ABSA Bank.After spending several months cleaningand maintaining his and Penny's homehis need for a challenge was answered.He was approached in 2002 to take upthe post of Senior Officer MaritimeTrade on the staff of Director Fleet ForcePreparation (DFFP) to manage NavalControl of Shipping. Although he wasexpected to retire from this post inSeptember 2007, he was retained until 31May 2009 when he finally retired fromservice. During this period the NavalControl of Shipping (NCS) section wasrestructured and modernised as theNaval Co-ordination and Guidance forShipping (NCAGS).

Relationships were forged withSADC countries (Angola, Botswana,Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique,Namibia and Zambia) as well as SouthAmerica (Argentina, Brazil and Chile),Australia, the United Kingdom and theUnited States of America. Training forSA Naval Reserve members as well as

SADC countries was introduced and avariety of NCAGS exercises (DEEPBLUE, FAIRWAY BUOY and BELLBUOY) took place to sharpen skills andtest procedures.

This culminated earlier this yearwhen Exercise BELL BUOY 09 washosted by South Africa with the naviesof Australia, Canada, Chile, the UnitedKingdom and the United States partici-pating, while Angola, Argentina, Brazil,Namibia, Singapore and Tanzania sentobservers.

His efforts greatly assisted in bring-ing awareness to the Southern Africancountries that the sea routes around theCape were of strategic importance toall, including landlocked countries thatwere reliant on maritime trade.

At his memorial service manyemails of condolence were read to hisfamily from the members of the differ-ent navies with which he had built arelationship. All spoke highly of hisprofessionalism, commitment and ded-ication to making the seas safer for mar-itime trade.

At his 33 years service in the SANavy Capt O'Shea was awarded theSouthern Cross Medal, Military MeritMedal, South Africa Medal, UnitasMedal, John Chard Medal and JohnChard Decoration.

Doc's cheery grin, balanced view-point and wisdom, which he shared lib-erally, will be missed by all his ship-mates, especially those young officerswhom he mentored.

The members of the SA Navy, bothFull-time and Reserves, extend theircondolences to his wife Penny, theirfour children and grandchildren. LtGlenn von Zeil, SA Naval Reserves

A TRIBUTE TO CAPTAIN (SANR) G.B. O'SHEA (RET)

Capt (SANR) "Doc" O'Shea, SeniorOfficer Maritime Trade, at work inhis office in the Naval HeadquartersBuilding in Simon's Town prior tohis retirement in 2009.

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June 16 is known as the day whenSouth African youth made history bystanding up in protest against the useof Afrikaans as a medium of instruc-tion. As a result the month of June wasdeclared a time for South Africa to cel-ebrate its youth.

On the cold and chilly morning of26 June 2009 SANDF COLET under-took a trip to the Hector PietersonMemorial and Museum in Soweto. Theexpedition included visiting theMandela House at 8115 Orlando West.As they say in Soweto: "You cannotvisit the Hector Pieterson Memorialand Museum without visiting theMandela House". This was confirmedwhen I realised that the two are only afew blocks away from each other.

When we arrived in Soweto, theMuseum was still closed. We decidedto visit the Mandela House first. TheMandela House is situated on the cor-ner of Vilakazi and Ngakane Streets.According to the tour guide, the housewas built in 1945 as part of theJohannesburg City Council's decisionto build matchbox-like houses forblacks in Orlando. Although the househas changed on account of restorationand structural improvements, it stilltells an interesting historic tale of theMandela family. The metal roof, theuntiled floor, the miniature coal stovein the tiny kitchen and the outsideappearance has been kept the same.The yard consists of a well-kept gardenwith flowers and sprinklers. The guideshowed us holes on the outer walls ofthe house that were caused by bulletsfired by police during raids. The househas two bedrooms, one living room, atiny kitchen and bath area. I cannotremember seeing a toilet in the house.What really upset me was the lack ofspace. I could not imagine Mandela, asbig as he is, in that small space of hisbedroom. Despite all these shortcom-ings, Mandela (known for his humility)in his book; The long walk to freedom -describes the house as follows:

"It was the opposite of grand, but itwas my first true home of my own andI was mightily proud. A man is not aman until he has a house of his own."

One of the interesting stories toldby the guide is that many people did

SANDF COLET VISITS THE HECTOR PIETERSON MEMORIALAND MUSEUM

not know what Mandela looked like.When he returned to his house after hisrelease from Robben Island in 1990, peo-ple would come and throw stones ontothe roof so that he would come out of thehouse so they could "check him out".Consequently he only spent eleven daysat his house until he was moved to amore quiet place.

The bedroom where the Mandelachildren used to sleep has been turnedinto the room of Honourary Degrees andDoctorates. This is where Mandela's aca-demic awards are displayed. Among thedisplays is a belt that was won by boxinglegend Sugar Ray Leonard. He conferredit on Mandela in 1990 shortly after hisrelease. The living room now consists ofphotos and pictures that depict memo-ries and the history of the Mandela fam-ily.

The Hector Pietersen Memorial andMuseum are located on the spot whereHector Pieterson and Hastings Ndlovuwere shot by the police. The location isnear Orlando West/Phefeni JuniorSecondary School in Vilakazi Streetwhere boycotts took place in May of thesame year. The memorial is outside themuseum where the famous picture ofHector Pieterson, Mbuyisa Makhubuand Antoinette Sithole is cast in stone.Patrons who wish to pay their respectand lay wreaths are welcome to do so.

The museum offers a timeline ofevents that led to the Soweto uprisingand its aftermath. There are audio-visualand written accounts from witnessesand newspaper stories pertaining to theyouth of 1976. We saw visuals of schoolchildren in uniform using lids of garbage

cans as shields against live bullets thatwere fired by the police. Despite thisdanger, the youth kept on fighting. Theresults are evident in the famous pic-ture in which Mbuyisa and Antoinetterun with the limp body of HectorPieterson to the then Phomolong Clinic.Among these testimonies is that ofMa'makhubu, Mbuyisa Makhubu'smother, that captures the essence of themoment as depicted in the photograph.She says:

"Mbuyisa is my son. But he is not ahero. In my culture, picking up Hectoris not an act of heroism. It was his job asa brother. If he left him on the groundand somebody saw him jumping overHector he would never have been ableto live here."

The visit to the Hector PietersonMemorial Museum and to the MandelaHouse was a learning curve for all of us.However small the Mandela house is, itis a true historic monument that man-ages to enlighten visitors and touristsabout the background and history ofthe Mandela family. The HectorPieterson Memorial and Museum tellemotional stories that help us to under-stand the value of youth in a societyand also to understand our country'spast. These places need to be visited notonly by DOD members, but by everySouth African, especially the youth. Theold man was spot on when he said: "It isonly when we can understand our pastthat we can be able to move forward". Icouldn't agree more. Mr Pilusa BethuelThulare (SANDF COLET) and photoby Mr Charel Bezuidenhout (SANDFCOLET)

Mr L. Malesa at Hector Pieterson Museum in South Western Township(SOWETO), Orlando West.


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A career stretching over 45 years came toa close on 19 June 2009 when ColonelJacobs van Heerden, outgoing SSOReserves at Artillery Formation, fired hislast shot as a Gunner. Col Van Heerden'smilitary career commenced on the 1st ofJuly 1964 when he was recruited into theArtillery Corps. He attended all relevantcourses, inclusive of the Senior StaffCourse, and boasts operational experi-ence from 1976 to 1988. The highlight ofhis career was the period from 1988 to2003 when he was the OfficerCommanding of the Transvaal StateArtillery. Next, he was appointed as theSSO Reserves and served in that appoint-ment from 2003 to 2009. During his mili-tary career Col Van Heerden was hon-oured with the Southern Cross Medal,John Chard Decoration, John ChardMedal, Southern Africa Medal, 40 YearsGood Service Medal, Pro Patria Medal,General Service and Unitas Medal.

Col Van Heerden expressed his grati-tude to every member that helped inshaping his career and instructed his suc-cessor to manage the office as SSOReserves with diligence and love and

END OF FIRE MISSION

wished Lt Col Lourens Botha an equallyprosperous career. The latter acknowl-edged the good wishes of Col VanHeerden and said he would follow in thefootsteps of his predecessor. Subsequentto the formalities they shook hands asthey officially closed the Change of Officeto all attending guests. Next, it was timefor Col Van Heerden's last engagement.With the first round fired, he took up posi-tion as Gunner No 1, thereafter GunnerNo 3 and with the last round fired his last

shot as a No 2 Gunner, which symbolisedthe end of his artillery career. Col VanHeerden, a Gunner at heart, will be sore-ly missed by many a Gunner within theArtillery Corps. He dedicated his life tothe Artillery Corps and along the wayinfluenced others with his diligent, fairand vigilant approach. We salute ColVan Heerden for his endurance in serv-ing a cause close to his heart. CaptMarelda Coetzer, SO2 Corp Com SAArmy Artillery Formation

Col Jacobs van Heerden firing his second last shot as a Gunner.

What do you think when buying some-thing?

Do you think about the earth? Doyou wonder about the product pack-aging? Is it too much?When you buy a cold drink in a canor plastic bottle do you think aboutthe side effects?When you throw away your oldcomputer or electronic spares do youthink of where it will end up?When you receive a fax do you feelbad if someone sends it twice andthere is wasted paper or when some-one has misused the copier machineto make unnecessary copies?This is what I feel and think.I think products have too much pack-

aging these days. When I am in the officeand see the cleaning ladies every daywith big bags full of rubbish and wastepaper and soft drink cans that are notbeing recycled I feel bad and I think weshould all start doing something about it.It is said that a recycled can will save upto three hours of electricity watching TV.

When I was visiting in Cape Town Icame across soft drinks in 500 ml glassbottles. Why have I not seen it here inGauteng? When will shopkeepers also

THE ENVIRONMENT AND HOW WE CAN PROTECT ITtake responsibility?

Old computer parts, electronic devicesor X-ray plates should be sent to a recy-cling plant. The reason for this is thatwhen these parts are buried in the earth atdump sites they will become a toxic wastethat pollutes our waters, making themunusable.

With receiving faxes why not receivethem electronically and then print them, ifneeded?

Why this don't care attitude when oneday we will have destroyed what wasentrusted to us by God? What would Godsay?

Here are some solutions to the prob-lem:

Take your own bags to a shoppingcentre; do not always buy new ones.Albany bread is in biodegradableplastic. Rather buy that.Buy your drinks in glass, so returnthe bottles and receive your depositback. Get a lunch box, and take it towhere you want to buy food. Letthem put it in there for you and donot use extra packaging.Electronics, computer parts and X-rayplates are hazardous when they lie onthe earth for years, as the website

www.desco.co.za explains. Theyhave bins at Makro; use them orphone them and they will collect incertain areas. I like companies likethis one for helping us.A fax receiving service is free. I donot know why people do not realiseit would be better for the environ-ment. You get a 0866 number whena fax is sent. Check your emails ifyour old fax line is open to sendfaxes. You can use email to fax, butit will cost you, at least you willreceive your proof of fax in youremail preventing cluttering in filesand offices. You can get a fax toemail a number or get more infor-mation by going towww.fairymail.co.za and clicking onthe Fax 2 Email link.Get Ronnie bins for the office paperto be shredded or discarded in thosebins.Help clean the earth and keep it

clean. It is everyone's responsibility.Now that I have this heavy burden offmy chest, I hope that you feel the same.Let us preserve the earth and keep itclean and healthy. L Cpl DiderickDaffue, email


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events

SA Army hands over a hospiceArticle and photos by Lt SelloSegone, Acting Editor Milmed

he Deputy Minister ofDefence and Military Veter-ans, Mr Thabang Makwetla,officiated at the handing overof a hospice to the SAMilitaryHealth Service (SAMHS) on 5August at 21 SA Infantry

Battalion at Lenz Military Base nearSoweto.

This came after the Chief of theArmy, Lt Gen Solly Shoke, with thesupport of the SA Army CommandCouncil, decided on 25 May 2005 toestablish a hospice in the CentralGauteng area for the needs of soldiersand their families requiring palliativecare. This was fully supported by allstakeholders within the DOD, espe-cially the SAMHS.

The late Secretary for Defence, MrJanuary Masilela, granted permissionon 8 September 2006 for the use ofsponsorship and donor funds for theconstruction of the hospice.

The construction of the hospice

provided a practical trainingopportunity for the prospectivemembers of the soon to be estab-lished DOD Works Capability,which will have a dedicatedFacility Management andMaintenance capability for theDOD. During the handing-overceremony, the Deputy Ministersaid that the facility, built in col-laboration with the SA ArmyEngineer Formation, SAMHS,and the Tshwane SouthTechnical College, would make amodest contribution to the goalof skills development, particu-larly the Joint Initiative ofPriority Skills Acquisition(JIPSA) and the Military SkillsDevelopment System (MSDS).

The hospice was constructedby members of the SA Army,supervised by Murray andRoberts, and funded by privatesector donors.

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Mr Makwetla alluded to the factthat even though there was still a hugebacklog regarding DOD facilities thatrequired maintenance and repair, theDOD could rest assured that in thefuture it would have to rely on owncapabilities with regard to the mainte-nance and repair of the facilities.

"Through this facility the DOD willcontinue to make a difference to ourmembers’ and their families’ lives. Itwill provide us with an opportunity toadd a human touch to the SANDF'sconstitutional mandate of defendingand protecting the sovereignty andterritorial integrity of the Republic ofSouth Africa, as well as supporting itspeople. Let's use the facility wisely tobenefit those in need and continue torenew our Government's obligationwith regard to service delivery," chal-lenged Mr Makwetla.

Fltr: the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Mr ThabangMakwetla, the Chief of the SA Army, Lt Gen Solly Shoke, and Brig GenSnowy Moremi, General Officer Commanding Area Military Health, at thehanding and taking over ceremony.

The Deputy Minister of Defence andMilitary Veterans, Mr Thabang Makwetla,receiving the collage of the hospice.

The project was deemed unique, asthose who repaired and renovated itwere members of the SANDF.


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>> on page 12

L Cpl Itumeleng MakhubelaPhotos: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole

xercise Golfinho was a multi-national peacekeeping opera-tion with over 6000 partici-pants from different securityforces and support elements.This unique approach topeace support missions has

taken the Southern AfricanDevelopment Community (SADC)region by storm through its complexi-ty. The SADC Standby Force wasestablished as agreed upon by theAfrican Union timeline of 2010 withthe aim of participating in peace sup-port missions. Its main objective was toprepare elements of the SADC StandbyForce for a multidimensional peacesupport operation in line with theAfrican Union (AU) standby forceroad map.

Briefing the media about ExerciseGolfinho, Brig Gen Lawrence Smith,

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SADC Standby Force borne Exercise Golfinho

The SADC Standby Force moved in to intercept the "rebel group" during a demonstration of a "rebel group" trying toseize armaments from a transporting vehicle.

cuting part of the exercise in whichforces in member states were mobilizedthrough intervention by airborneforces and marrying up drills by inte-grating SADC states and their differentforces.

Brig Gen Smith said each compo-nent had a sector commander to over-see their engagement and had a suc-cessful interaction despite minor obsta-cles with other components. Of the 15countries that form the SADC, onlythree: Mauritius, the Seychelles andMadagascar were non-participants inthe exercise. Each SADC state had toprovide its own means of participationfor their forces. The Naval JointMaritime Task Force at Walvis Bay inNamibia also ran an exercise concur-rently with the one in Lohatlha.

A simulated hostile take-over ofrebel militants on armament vehicleswas staged during a demonstration.The scene depicted how a well-inte-

the Force Commander, said they hadselected scenario six of the prescribedAU training structure, which is anintervention posing difficulties in termsof interoperability. He described it asway of testing impossibilities byputting together people of differentgroupings and backgrounds. The com-position of the SADC Standby Forceconsisted of the Mission Headquarters,a civilian component, a police compo-nent and the military component. Thelatter contributes immensely with per-sonnel.

Exercise Golfinho was structured inthree phases. The first was the MAPEXwhich was the initial part of the exercisethat entailed mapping and operationalplanning. This was followed by theCPX command post exercise, and lastlya training exercise called FTX, a monthlong field training exercise at the SAArmy Training Combat Centre inLohatlha that took place from 1 to 28September 2009. This involved the exe-

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Honourable Filipe Nyussi, the Mozambique Minister of Defence, handing amedal to Brig Gen Lawrence Smith, the Force Commander.

Gen Godfrey Ngwenya, Chief SANDF, sharing a word with Dr MathendeleDlamini, the Head of Mission SADC Standby Force, after a briefing in JoeSlovo officer's mess.

grated SADC force would handle suchan incident. The objective of the exer-cise was to test the interoperability andcompatibility of the mission compo-nents. Unlike the military and policecomponents, the civilian componenthad to provide assistance in a humani-tarian relief operation.

Mr. Haretsebe Mahosi fromLesotho, Head of the civilian compo-nent, told SA Soldier that part of theirrole in the exercise was to handle polit-ical affairs and negotiations among andfor victims of civil strife. They alsoteamed up with the InternationalCommittee of the Red Cross to dealwith humanitarian affairs, such asassessing the situation and providingassistance. The ICRC also providedtraining in International HumanitarianLaw for different SADC contingents.

The Exercise Golfinho VIP daymarked the biggest parade ever to beheld in the SADC region. The decom-missioning of the SADC brigade and amedal parade for the participants ofthe exercise took place on 22September 2009. The highest func-tionaries at the parade included thehonourable Filipe Nyussi, theMozambique Minister of Defence, whohanded out medals to the senior cadreof the SADCMIL, the Honourable MsLindiwe Sisulu, Minister of Defenceand Military Veterans and her deputy,the Honourable Mr ThabangMakwetla.

Other senior dignitaries included

Dr Mathendele Dlamini fromSwaziland, the Head of Mission of theSADC Standby Force, who declared theexercise commissioned earlier inSeptember. In his speech, he highlightedchallenges encountered during the exer-cise and how hard they worked to over-come them. "The challenges, however,did not create an insurmountable routeto success. It would be remiss on mypart if I failed to commend the partici-pating member states and in particularthe SADC leadership that provided themeans and guidance that made exerciseGolfinho the success it was," he said.

He further stated that the SADCshould celebrate the vision of the headsof state for launching the SADC StandbyForce and providing the means neces-

Soldiers lowering flags during the decommissioning parade.


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Photos A, B and C: The SADC Standby Forceshowed its strength and capabilities during ademonstration by "rebel troups".

sary to execute objectives. "If you wantpeace prepare for war" Dr Dlamini stat-ed and said this would mean using theregional capability for war to put inplace a mechanism to foster peace. Thiscapability would not be used to threat-en, but would rather be vital for securi-ty when used through consensus andco-operation.

Dr Dlamini further urged memberson parade to take account of the skillsthey had acquired and to demonstratea sense of loyalty and assurance to theirstates and people. "It is without a shad-ow of a doubt that the skills you haveacquired through this training willenable you to perform prominentlyand effectively even after your integra-tion into the African Standby Force," heconcluded.

Medical support was vital duringthe operation for the resuscitation ofmembers injured by explosions.

Medical support was vital during theoperation for the resuscitation of mem-bers injured by explosions.

Photos D and E: Internally displaced people (IPS) formed part of theexercise. They are visible in cases where internal conflicts arise andthey form splinter groups. These refugees clash with police overhunger and living conditions.

A

B

C

D

E

events


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The Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, Gen Song kitti Jaggabatara, (centre) inspects the parade during the RoyalThai Armed Forces visit at the Defence Headquarters on 03 August 2009.

By Kgabo Mashamaite Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma

uring the Royal ThaiArmed Forces (RTAF) wel-coming parade held on 03August 2009 at DefenceHeadquarters the Chief ofthe Royal Armed Forces,General Song kitti Jagga-

batara, assured the Chief of the SouthAfrican National Defence Force,General Godfrey Ngwenya, thathis contingent received a pleasant

D

Royal Thai Armed ForcesChief receives a warmAfrican welcome

to engage meaningfully. Gen Jaggabatara said that it was

his first official visit and that he washumbled by South Africa's warm wel-come. The Chief of the Royal ArmedForces said that he chose the SANDFbecause of its peacekeeping capabili-ties and hoped to learn some of itsskills in that connection.

Gen Jaggabatara and his en-tourage were expected to visit placessuch as the Army College, Air ForceBase Swartkop and the Naval BaseSimon's Town.

and warm African reception afterthey landed at the O.R. TamboInternational Airport.

The main aim of the visit of theRoyal Thai Armed Forces andentourage was to learn about theSANDF's role and functions in con-flict resolution, particularly in Africa.

During the courtesy meeting atthe C SANDF's lounge for formalintroductions, Gen GodfreyNgwenya said that the two countrieshad friendly relations dating back tothe 90's and it was important for them


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By L Cpl Ally RakomaPhoto: Sgt Elias Mahuma

delegation from the USACapstone under the leader-ship of General Joseph Ashy(Ret) US Air Force visitedSouth Africa to meet withtheir counterparts to collab-orate on defence and nation-

al security matters at DefenceHeadquarters in Pretoria on 5 August2009.

As it is a trend in the internationalcommunity to bridge geographicdivides and expand relations, it iscommon practice in the SA DOD tobroaden horizons with friendlynations.

Lt Gen Derick Mgwebi, the Chiefof Human Resources, welcomed theguests during the courtesy call on

A

The USA CapstoneDelegates visit South Africa

Fltr: Maj Gen Molefi Mokoena, the Chief Director Human Resources Development, Gen Joseph Ashy (Ret) US AirForce and Lt Gen Derick Mgwebi, the Chief of Human Resources, discussing key security affairs affecting the world.

DOD/SANDF for their unselfish spir-it of international co-operation inwhich they so ably addressed issuesof global importance.

"The interactions between the SADOD and the US DOD highlight theimportant role that our militaries andgovernments can play in supportingkey initiatives on national and inter-national security affairs," addedGeneral Ashy.

In conclusion, Lt Gen Mgwebiexpressed his gratitude for the excel-lent spirit of mutual collaborationthat existed among members. Heindicated that South Africa was agood citizen of the world. "The prob-lems of the world are too big for onenation, so let us engage each other ina multinational approach to the chal-lenges of the world. If we do notunite, our world will fall apart."

behalf of the Chief of the SANDF,Gen Godfrey Ngwenya.

Lt Gen Mgwebi officiated asChairperson of the meeting as the vis-itors were engaged in discussionswith the SANDF delegates. The visitprovided an essential forum to dis-cuss key global defence and nationalsecurity solutions. Mr Nick Sendall,the Chief Director Defence Policy,and senior members of the SANDFbriefed the guests on the SANDF'scontribution to the SADC, AfricanUnion and United Nations missionsin support of peace building. Severalaspects relating to the SADC Brigadewere also highlighted.

The interactions revealed a movetowards civil defence, reconstructionand development in support of gov-ernment initiatives. General Ashywholeheartedly praised the SA

attaché news


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By L Cpl Itumeleng MakhubelaPhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

he Military Police Divisionbade farewell to the ProvostMarshal General (PMG), BrigGen Joseph Ledwaba, duringa parade held at the MilitaryPolice School in ThabaTshwane on 7 July 2009. He

will become the new Defence Attachéin the USA.

"Six years ago on 1 April 2003 Iwas appointed by the Chief of theSANDF as the Chief of the MilitaryPolice Agency, as it was then known.It was with some degree of trepida-tion that having left the familiar sur-roundings of the SA Air Force I

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The Provost MarshalGeneral appointed in the USA

Brig Gen Joseph Ledwaba, the Provost Marshal General, inspecting the parade.

Brig Gen Joseph Ledwaba, theProvost Marshal General, paying hisgratitude to members across theMilitary Police Division after theparade.

walked into the Agency realising thatthis was a new experience amongmostly unfamiliar faces and certainly aformidable challenge," said Brig GenLedwaba.

He indicated that he was indeedproud of the joint efforts and partici-pation of different agencies that stoodagainst criminality. He paid his tributeto the main role players, which werethe upper echelons of the DOD and theMilitary Police Division. They werethe people that implemented strate-gies, instituted penalties and executedlegislation according to prescriptions.

As the Parliament has mandatedevery government department to pro-vide a strategic approach to curb crim-inality, an Anti-criminality Strategy


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Brig Gen Joseph Ledwaba and his family (his wife Loretta is next to him)and their two sons, Tjikidi and Marabeele, and daughter Malebo.

was developed in 2000, and approvedby the Minister of Defence in 2001. ThePMG was responsible for implement-ing the strategy and was an adviser tothe Secretary for Defence and the Chiefof the SANDF.

During an interview with SASoldier, Brig Gen Ledwaba had fondlyexpressed his experience as the PMGand the new challenge ahead of him:

Q: How was your experience as theProvost Marshal General?A: Being the PMG has its challengesbecause you interact with people invarious ways and may be workingwith people who are positive and neg-ative. For instance, if a crime is com-mitted relevant punishment must beinstituted and people may not behappy with the outcome. Therefore, itis upon the Military Police to make aproper investigation so that the courtscan adjudicate and hand an appropri-ate sentencing based on the informa-tion provided. As the PMG and Headof the DOD Anti-criminality Board weare marketing the strategy, makingappraisals to check if it was enrolledeffectively and review the progressmade. When I took over as the PMG,about 50% of Military Police personnelwhere supernumerary with no future.They applied themselves despite theirpersonal problems, proving to be peo-

ple of character with high moral anddedicated to their work.

Q: From what you have been doing as thePMG, what is it that you think you canimplement in your new working environ-ment as an attaché?A: Strategy - going through a disci-plined planning process and makingsure that everything is done accordingto plan. Developing a vision, strategyand goals to make sure that you do notlose direction in your mandate. Theplan, however, must be linked todeliverables and also acceptingresponsibility and accountability. Youmust be willing and ready to learnfrom junior personnel in the organisa-tion.

Q: Being a military attaché is obviously abig responsibility, how prepared are you toundertake such a task?A: I am prepared based on my knowl-edge of the organisation. I have beenan officer commanding, a director inthe SA Air Force, now a provost mar-shal general, I have also engaged in adecision-making forum in the DOD. Ihave enough exposure to be able toknow how to manage situations. Beinga military attaché is to represent theDOD positively in a foreign country. Ihave an advantage understanding theorganisation and how it functions.

Q: How will this appointment affect yourcareer growth in the long run?A: General officers are utilised every-where where the DOD decide todeploy them because they are on alevel where they can assist in runningthe organisation and developing poli-cies. General officers are assigned todo any task, anywhere.

Q: To what extent does this affect yourfamily?A: I am moving with my family and ofcourse they will be interrupted, butthis creates another opportunity forthem elsewhere. They have been sup-portive to me and understand that Iam a soldier who has to followinstructions.

Highlights Brig Gen Ledwaba has extensively

embarked on numerous occupationsin the military environment andacquired prestigious accolades. Tomention only the recent few high-lights in his career: In 2001 he waspromoted to the rank of BrigadierGeneral and appointed DirectorOperational Support and IntelligenceSystems at Air Command. In the sameyear he entered a national competitionregarding the European ExcellenceModel winning the second prize afterDaimler Chrysler.

In 2002 the Chief of the SA AirForce awarded his directorate theSword of Peace for their overall excel-lence in the SA Air Force. Brig GenLedwaba was then transferred to theMilitary Police Agency in April 2003.He was a member of the PlenaryDefence Staff Council, the DailyDefence Staff Council Board and theCouncil on Defence. He was also theChairperson of the DOD Anti-crimi-nality Board.

Brig Gen Ledwaba was thenappointed as the DOD Nodal Point onAnti-criminality where he brought theconcept of proactive approach to thefight against crime in the DOD. In2006 a Special Representative of theUnited Nations sent a compliment tothe Chief of the SANDF in recognitionof excellent performance by theMilitary Police Division in theDemocratic Republic of Congo.

youth training


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By Amn Nwabisa V.Dlevu, Ad AstraMagazine Photo: WO2 DavidNomtshongwana

t is crucial that young men andwomen realise that life is aboutchoices and that they need to exer-cise them wisely, said the SouthAfrican Air Force (SAAF) DirectorCorporate Service, Brig Gen TersiaJacobs, during the passing-out

parade of the Siyandiza-YoungFalcons on 18 July 2009 at the AirForce Gymnasium in Valhalla, southof Tshwane.

She urged the learners to workhard for their forthcoming exams,especially in mathematics and science.

I

Siyandiza and the Falcon teams during their passing out parade at the Air Force Gym in Valhalla on July 18, 2009.

Siyandiza gives young falcons a military taste

The youths had ended their mocktraining at the Falcons' camp atDitholo, near Hammanskraal.

The young people were training ina youth development programme thatpromoted aviation awareness anddescribed career options available inthe SAAF. These are programmes thatprepare grade ten to twelve learnersfrom disadvantaged backgrounds allaround the country for studies in air-craft skills and acquisition of knowl-edge.

The Siyandiza Young Falcons'camp ran from 12 to 18 July 2009 atDitholo, about 90 kilometres north ofTshwane. First they visited the SAAFMuseum in Valhalla, where they werebriefed on the history of the Air Force.

The lecture was conducted by LtMartin Matsetse and Sgt PhutiNgoako.

Next they were introduced the lifeof a soldier, after which they weretaught drills and other disciplinaryrequirements of the military. They vis-ited 17 and 41 squadrons for generallessons aviation.

During the course of the week theytook part in sports parades and visiteda game reserve to familiarise them-selves with the fauna in the neighbor-hood. Other modules covered includ-ed life skills, etiquette, HIV/AIDSawareness, self-discipline, navigationand its principles, development of airpower, military insignia, first aid anddrug and alcohol abuse.


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L Cpl Solomon Molefe uses Frosty, a Boarder collie to scare the birds awayfrom runways at the Swartkop Airfield.

SA Air Force runways are the safestArticle by Nwabisa V Dlevu, AdAstra MagazinePhoto: WO2 David Nomtshongwana

irds strikes on military air-craft cause considerable dam-age to landing gear, cockpits,windows and engines andcost the South African AirForce (SAAF) a lot of money.However, this will be a thing

the a past, as the SAAF has launched anew bird chaser project at the SwartkopAirfield to protect its runways.

The SAAF, which is in a war againstbird related damage, has unleashed anew bird chaser, among them Frost, aneighteen-month-old a Border collie.This dog was obtained on July 23 2009to ward off and harass birds to preventthem from wandering on to the run-ways. Phillip and Pippa Andrews atCaledon in the Western Cape trained

the dog. Border Collies are chosenspecifically for their obedience and easeof training, stamina, innate naturalherding instinct and willingness towork in different conditions. One of theBorder collie handlers, 24 year-old 500Squadron member L Cpl SolomonMolefe, had to undergo training for aweek and will continue to receive train-ing every two months to learn the basicdiscipline and the commands to heel,go, stop, return and chase.

The demonstration showed thebonding of dog and handler. When LCpl Molefe whistled, Frosty took thecommands impressively. She reacted toa bird's presence and also scaring thebirds away from a high risk area on thefield. An American, Dr Nick Carter,inspired the initiative and it has raisedconsiderable interest among membersand promises to reduce damage to air-craft and the loss of aircrew.

BPamela Matjila (17), who will be

joining the next intake in August2009, said that she enjoyed her staybecause it was fun and she wastaught discipline. When asked by ADASTRA magazine why she wanted tojoin the SAAF, she said that she likeda uniform and came from a simpleworking-class home.

Kamogelo Setali (19), said that shewas attracted by an advertisement ofthe Young Falcons in the City Pressnewspaper and applied for a naviga-tor's post.

Mrs Consolation Setlai, a parentof one of the young girls, hoped thather daughter would take all that shehad learned and apply it to her dailylife.

events


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Article by Sgt Thabang Bapela,Journalist AD ASTRA MagazinePhoto: Sgt Thabang Bapela

ver three thousand peoplefrom Gauteng, includinglearners from differentschools around the capitalcity, attended a most spec-tacular Air Show display atSwartkop Airfield in

Valhalla, south of Tshwane, on 12September 2009.

The learners who attended the airshow were advised by LieutenantMartin Matsetse, CorporateCommunication Officer, SouthAfrican Air Force (SAAF) Museum to

OThe aircraft that played a part dur-

ing the air show were the DassaultMirage III "Black widow", AtlasImpala MK 1, Pilatus PC-7 MK 2 Astra"Silver Falcons", SAAB Gripen, HawkMK 120, Alouette, Puma, Dakota,Harvard, C-130 Hercules, Casa 212,Cessna C208 Caravan, Oryx, AgustaA-109 LUH and a Falcon 500.

The South African Airways (SAA)provided a Boeing 737-300 freighterfor static display at Swartkop. The AirForce Aerobatics team, the SilverFalcons, and the much- awaitedGripen were the highlight of the day.The Silver Falcons thrilled the specta-tors when they performed their amaz-ing displays.

pay particular attention to mathemat-ics and science subjects to become eli-gible for aviation awareness courses inthe SAAF.

According to Mr Monama,Principal of Ratlhagane PrimarySchool, the air show had a positiveimpact on the learners and they wereelated with what they got.

Mr Monama added that, the visitwas fruitful and that they would liketo visit the South African Air Force(SAAF) again. "I will convince thelearners to take Mathematics andScience subjects at High School if theywant to pursue their dreams of becom-ing pilots or technicians in the SAAF"he said.

The SAA and SAAF Silver Falcons aircraft performing airborne manoeuvres during theSAAF Wings & Adventure Air Show.

A spectacular Air Show display

The theme of the airshow was "Wings andAdventure", and theAdventure theme waschosen to encourage thepublic to spend more oftheir recreational timeenjoying the beautifulweather and the aircraftof the SAAF Museum,the Mirage III "BlackWidow" and other vin-tage aircraft such as theVampire and Impala.

Also promotingtheir products werecompanies such asBMW, Kawasaki SA,Honda SA, SafariCentre, SA 4x4 NationalCamps, Cadac and anumber of colourfulfood stalls.


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Fltr: Maj Mamosala Mokoena, Xolani Nhlapo, Cdr Geeva Moodley, MajAnnabel Macauley, Phumeza Dlamini (Presenter), Ndumisani Dzana (FloorManager), Col Zandile Mbete, Col Petrus Motlhabane, Sindi Mphahla(Producer) and Sthembile Zwane (Director) at the Soweto TV Studios.

Article and photo by Maj L.Lombard, SO2 Corp Com, SA Army Signal Formation

rue to the SA National BloodService's (SANBS) slogan "Take a

Moment to give Life", members of SAArmy Signal Formation and othermembers stationed at WonderboomMilitary Base took a moment off theirwork schedule to donate blood duringthe blood donation drive at Wonder-boom Military Base on 23 July 2009.Some of the milestones achieved onthis day included three new first timedonors, Sgt L.T.N. Ndaba of 5 SignalRegiment, Cpl I.I. Magengenene of 1Signal Regiment and Pte K.A. Sebati ofJSB Wonderboom.

A major achievement was also thatof WO1 C.J. Cronje of Joint SupportBase (JSB) Wonderboom with his 76thdonation, Ms A. du Preez of 2 SignalRegiment with her 62nd and Maj L.Lombard of SA Army SignalFormation HQ with her 50th donation.

L Cpl I.I. Magengenene, 1 Signal Regiment (lying down), and Ms MaleboMoagi of the South African National Blood Service.

Wonderboom Military Base helps save lives

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donate more blood by means ofhealthy competition among members.

For more information on the nextblood donation drive of the SA ArmySignal Formation and the rest ofWonderboom Military Base, pleasecontact Maj L. Lombard, (012) 5290258 or fax (012) 529 0022.

The unit within SA Army SignalFormation with "the most donationsup to date" is JSB Wonderboom with280 donations. The SA Army SignalFormation also started its own "BloodDonation Hall of Fame" as part of itssocial responsibility initiative. Thiswill help to motivate members to

SANDF women on "Mbokodo" Soweto TVArticle and photo by CPO Bongani Khuzwayo, Defence TV Cameraman

n 31 August 2009 four womenrepresenting the four Services in

the SANDF were interviewed on theMbokodo programme of the SowetoTV, which focuses on women'sissues.

This pre-recording was broadcaston 7 September 2009. These fourwomen served as excellent ambas-sadors for the SANDF, and spokespecifically about women in defence,with special emphasis on all the excit-ing career opportunities for womenin the DOD. The four women wereCol Zandile Mbete, a Reserve Forcemember from the SA Military HealthService, Cdr Geeva Moodley from theSA Navy, Maj Mamosala Mokoenafrom the SA Army EngineerFormation and Maj AnnabelMcCauley, a pilot from the VIP 21

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Squadron in the SA Air Force.Copies can be obtained from

Mr R. Kgapola of the Defence TVoffices on tel 012 312 2239.

conference


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By L Cpl Mapule RaphelaPhoto: Sgt Elias Mahuma

ender equity is the corner-stone in the government'sattempt to make sure bothsexes have an equal oppor-tunity in terms of educa-tion, employment opportu-nities, promotions etc. The

SA Army Gender Conference, whichwas held in Thaba Tshwane, was heldto emphasise this point.

The main aim of the conferencewas to give feedback on whatemerged during last year's conferenceand to give more attention to issuesthat would arise at the 2009 confer-ence. Lt Gen Solly Shoke, the Chief ofthe Army, delivered his keynoteaddress and stated that every govern-ment department had its own man-date that it had to adhere to, and theSANDF was not exempted from thismandate and was bound to defend theterritory and integrity of our country.

Lt Gen Shoke further explained theimportance of gender equity. "Genderequity is a way to clear the imbalancesof the past, so that the playing field islevel and everybody in South Africa isequal, but we must look at genderissues not only in promotions. Wemust be holistic in our approach," hesaid. "The SANDF must not lose sightof serious issues affecting female sol-diers and we must not only empowerourselves, but also our government,"he added.

Lt Gen Shoke was adamant that noincompetent soldiers would berecruited for the army, because the

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Operationalisation and executionof the Gender MainstreamingPlan.Creating a gender sensitive envi-ronment.Implementation of positive mea-sures to increase women's partici-pation in decision making struc-tures and to contribute to opera-tional solutions to human security,peace and stability.Implementation of positive mea-sures aimed at increasingwomen's skills development,qualifications and competencies.Mainstreaming gender in HR pol-icy plans and processes.

mandate of the army is to fight. "I needsoldiers who are fit, that can bedeployed anywhere, any time and togive direction, so they must pass myfitness test" said Lt Gen Shoke.

The gender conference was also aplatform to talk about the GenderAction Plan that was established bythe members of the SA Army. Since2008, it has been the responsibility ofthe General Officer Commanding toimplement the Gender Action Plan intheir units. The Gender Action Planhas six objectives, which are:

The provision of strategic directionwith regards to gender issues inDefence.

Chief of the Army Lt Gen Solly Shoke delivering his speech during the CArmy Gender Conference in Thaba Tshwane.

Chief of the Army keynote address atGender Conference


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By L Cpl Mapule RaphelaPhoto: Elias Mahuma

he Defence Legal ServicesDivision also made theirmark during the Women'sDay celebrations by holding aWomen's Day seminar atThaba Thwane. The theme ofthe event was "The role of

women in society".The seminar was opened by the

Chief of Legal Services, Ms ElizabethKubushi, with a question, namely"what is a role?" She further explainedthe importance of the coming togetherof women to assert themselves on thisday. She said there were many rolesthat a woman played, but there was aneed for a paradigm shift.

Professor Trudy Stein from theCollege of Human Sciences at theUniversity of South Africa (UNISA)stimulated the audience with hermotivation speaker presentation. Sheemphasised that women needed to askthemselves two questions to bringmeaning to their lives, namely "didyou enjoy life?" and "did you bring joyto life?" She also provided key pointson how to change your thinking, suchas "stand and count your blessings","live a life of gratitude and listen toyour inner voice".

Dr Monica Juma, ExecutiveDirector Research at the AfricaInstitute of South Africa, took to thefloor to highlight the importance ofthe protection of women in theDepartment of Defence. She said thatwomen, especially in the military,must not settle for the support level,the so-called "soft skills". They mustalso be given the opportunity to be at

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of women taking themselves seriouslyas this would in turn result in theirbeing taken seriously.

Ms Modipa added that if youwanted to see a woman at her best, sheshould be placed at the forefront ofconflict, especially in a working envi-ronment, because there she can changematters because of her ability to influ-ence people. She said women shouldhelp each other to climb the corporateladder through visionary leadership.

The seminar also included a dis-play of different types of books, cour-tesy of Ms Phillipa Mitchell of RedPepper Books, and beautiful musicplayed by the National CeremonialGuard Band.

the command level, especially in peacesupport operations. Dr Juma addedthat there should be adequate struc-tures dedicated to gender issues andbelieved that the Defence LegalServices was efficient in dealing withthese issues.

The last speaker of the day was MsMaggie Modipa, Deputy DirectorGeneral of the National IntelligenceAgency (NIA). She commenced herpresentation by paying tribute to theheroines of the 9 August 1956Women's March that changed therights of women immensely - womensuch as Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph,Rahima Moosa and Sophie Williams.She further explained the importance

Ms Elizabeth Kabushi, Chief of Defence Legal Services Division, handing atoken of appreciation to Ms Maggie Modipa, Deputy Director-General ofNational Intelligence Agency.

The role of women in society

focus on people


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Her winning formulais unmatchedBy Amn Tebogo KekanaPhoto: WO2 David Nomtshongwana

lthough females make upmore than half the populationof South Africa and theworld, women and girls haveendured discrimination inmost societies for thousandsof years. In the past, their

husbands or fathers treated them asproperty, they could not own land, andthey could not vote or go to school.They were also subjected to beatingsand abuse and could not do anythingabout it.

Fortunately that is, however, notthe case with the Department ofDefence (DOD), specifically within theSouth African National Defence Force(SANDF). Inspired by its slogan " Anemployer of choice", the DOD has afirm belief in empowering deservingfemale personnel to occupy powerfulpositions.

One such is Brig Gen MarthieVisser, recently promoted to the post ofDirector Corporate Communication(DCC). Brig Gen Visser is testimony tothe fact that the ability to hold a jobshould not depend on the arrangementof the body's chromosomes, but on theabilities and capabilities of the personas well as on a strong character.

Brig Gen Visser is proof that overthe last hundred years progress hasbeen made in gaining equal rights forwomen around the world, especially inthe working environment.

"I take my work very seriously andI do it with passion. I set achievablegoals and strive to attain each one ofthem, no matter how long it takes. I ama realist and am very handy when itcomes to small home projects; every-thing I start, I finish. I believe that Ihave the same competencies as men

ABrig Gen Marthie Visser, the newlypromoted Director of CorporateCommunication in the Departmentof Defence.

have, although I do not aim to com-pete with them. I am feminine and Ido not plan to lose my softer side try-ing to match other people," she said.

Asked how she dealt with thepressure and workload, she wasadamant that her approach played acrucial role in distinguishing when tothink with her heart and when to useher head. She added that she tries tostay level-headed when making deci-sions.

This remarkable fifty-three-yearold woman, the eldest of four sisters,was born in Vanderbijlpark in theVaal Triangle. As the first-born, shehad to take responsibility at a youngage. She had a normal upbringing andthe love of her siblings is the essenceof her childhood memories.

"I am an extrovert, although Ivalue my private space and some-times feel the need to be alone withnature and 'connect'. I just thrive on

the peace and tranquillity of nature.My partner and I, with our dogs, enjoyexploring the countryside at everypossible opportunity and appreciatinglife. We enjoy birdwatching, longwalks and of course, nothing beats agood braai on a summer's day! When Iam not busy in the office, you mightjust bump into me wearing my binoc-ulars and appreciating life," shebeamed.

She feeds her mind by readingbiographies of people who have madea difference to society, such asMahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandelaand works on the social sciences. She isalso a member of the South African AirForce Association (SAAFA) PretoriaCommittee, where she contributes hertime to assisting former military mem-bers in need.

Although she is not married, sheloves her kitchen and cooks well andalso enjoys getting her hands dirty inher garden. She adores children andher family, and that is why she is agodmother to her sister's three chil-dren and admits to spoiling themevery chance she gets.

AD ASTRA MAGAZINE OPENEDA WINDOW INTO HER WORLD

Her career background and experi-ence in Corporate Communicationincludes the following:

At the age of seventeen, she wasamong the first group of females tobe trained in South Africa afterWorld War II. It was in January1974 at Air Force Base (AFB)Waterkloof. She did her Officer Forming in1982 and held various positionsbefore she ventured into the fieldof Corporate Communication. In 1993 she became a Lt Col andreported to Lt Gen A. Masondo.

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In 1998 she was appointed Col(SSO Internal Communication) andreported to Maj Gen GertOpperman. In 2000 she was appointed as SSOCorporate Commmunication(SAAF) under the leadership ofMaj Gen L.C Pepani. In 2004 - she became SSO SPP(DCC) reporting to Maj Gen D.M.Mofokeng and later to Brig GenK.D. Mangope.

Q: How many years of experience do youhave in Corporate Communication?A: Sixteen years.

Q: Where and what did you study? A: I did a BA in Political Science andCommunications at UNISA, aProfessional Certificate in GovernmentCommunication and Marketing withWits Business School & GovernmentCommunications and InformationSystem (GCIS). I also did an ExecutiveNational Security Programme (ENSP)at the SA National Defence College,followed by Public Relations Practiceand Management with the PublicRelations Institute of South Africa(PRISA).

Q: How did you feel when you were giventhis post?A: It is a privilege and honour to servein this post and it is a true milestone inmy career. I am a people's person andit adds to the vast amount of experi-ence that I have acquired over theyears.

Q: Who did you first share the news with?A: I initially shared the news with mypartner and sisters.

Q: Were you expecting it?A: Not really, but then again I watchedmy career grow from strength tostrength and I took things step by stepand prepared myself for any eventual-ity. My Christian background has alsotaught me that God is the architect ofour lives and all I have is because ofHim.

Q: What changes can be expected duringyour tenure in CorporateCommunication?A: I have a vision to share with mydirectorate how to communicate betterand understand what it means to fullyunderstand our environment. We allhave a purpose in life, and that is

Worker at 68 Air School, for hostingthe event. These two special women,as well as all the women of 502Squadron, contributed towards thesuccess of the event and ensured thateverybody enjoyed the day.

Women showing off their traditional garb.

By Capt Gus Moonsamy, 502 Operational OfficerPhoto: Cpl Jan Mkhondo

02 Squadron joined forces with itshost unit, 68 Air School, in celebrat-

ing its annual Women's Day inAugust 2009. Maj W.D.H. Abrahamse,the Officer Commanding 502Squadron, opened the event andacknowledged all the efforts of thewomen serving in the unit as well asthe female spouses or partners ofmembers in the unit. Each womanattending the event received a set ofearrings. All women were requestedto dress in traditional dress, and thevibrant colours contributed to thesplendour of the event. The three best-dressed women in traditional attirewere rewarded with jewellery. Thecelebrations also included a tea withlight snacks and a fashion show pre-sented by some male students from

the unit. These "professional fashionmodels" added some humour to theevent. 68 Air School expressed a spe-cial word of thanks to Capt Ranotofrom the Combined Mess at 68 AirSchool and Ms Reynders, the Social

68 Air School Celebrates Women's Day

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mainly to be of service to our fellowman. I plan to create a fruitful work-ing relationship with my fellow com-municators so that we will be able tohave a dedicated professional muster-ing.

Q: What leadership style have you adopt-ed?A: Teamwork approach: To-

gether Everybody AccomplishesMore I have an open-door policy, and Leadership is production, notposition I believe the chain is as strong asthe weakest link (the stronger onesmust empower the weak), and Ihave learned to take every personseriously and understand thedynamics of team leadership."

What AD ASTRA Magazine haslearnt from this remarkable woman isthat the crux for women in seniorposts in the workplace is to remainhumble in their professions and tokeep the eye on the ball. Whenwomen thrive, the whole society ben-efits and succeeding generations aregiven a better start in life.

focus on people


26

By L Cpl Mapule Raphela Photo: Elias Mahuma

he celebration of women'smonth is an annual andmomentous event in SouthAfrican history. Not only didthe woman of 1956 march forthe abolition of the pass laws,but they also insisted that they

did not want to be treated as second-class citizens. They challenged therights of women to be taken seriouslyand be put in positions that theydeserved.

The SANDF is also playing a majorrole in empowering women by pro-moting them to higher ranks. SA soldierhad an exclusive interview with thefirst African female Director of theReserve Forces, Brig Gen Susan DebbieMolefe, to get to know more about howmuch blood, sweat and tears she had toshed to get her to where she is today.Gen Molefe is a Regular Force memberappointed to manage the ReserveForces of the SANDF. She started hermilitary career in 1997 during the inte-gration period and was then appointedto the rank of Major. In 2001 she waspromoted to the rank of LieutenantColonel.

In 2005 she was promoted toColonel, after completing the JointSenior Command and StaffProgramme in 2004, and her ENSP in2008. Her promotion to BrigadierGeneral was warmly welcomed as itvalidated the notion that women werea force to be reckoned with. Eventhough the SANDF was not her origi-nal career of choice, Brig Gen Molefegrabbed the opportunities that cameher way with both hands.

"The SANDF was in my mind not

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Defence Reserves'sproudest appointment

Brig Gen Debbie Molefe, DirectorDefence Reserves.

my line of career, but I considered myalternatives and I decided to take theopportunity offered to me. I was readyfor the challenge and I am happy Ijoined this department because I feel Ihave contributed a lot and I am still pre-pared to do more. I am looking forwardto seeing more women in the upperechelons of this department", said BrigGen Molefe.

She has everything necessary to bein her position, including beauty andbrains. She has a BA in Social Sciences,which she obtained at the University ofBotswana and a postgraduate Diplomain Public Health Management with theMedical University of Southern Africa(MEDUNSA). When asked how she feltabout her promotion, Brig Gen Molefeanswered with a smile, "I am excited, Ithink it's a well deserved promotion.My seniors obviously had confidence inme, hence they supported my appoint-ment into this position. I should like tothank everyone who contributed to mysuccess".

Brig Gen Molefe set high goals forherself in the career path that sheembarked on. "I want to move up, thisis just the beginning of things in myendeavours to reach positive heights inmy career and to contribute more to thisdepartment. I am thankful to myseniors and supervisors who played animportant role in mentoring me andpaving a way for some of us", she said.She expressed how honoured she wasthat her promotion came in the monthof August and she also hoped that morewomen would be afforded variousopportunities to be in senior positions,especially those that really deserve tobe promoted.

Brig Gen Molefe believe that eachand every division and service should

work in unison to make the objective ofthe reserve to be a reality "The role andresponsibilities of the Reserves are clearand I, with the support from theServices and Divisions, am going tocontribute positively to the SANDFReserves by ensuring that all theirobjectives are realised," she said.

It seems as if change is eminent atthe Defence Reserves even thoughthere are still some challenges to beovercome. "We are still faced with thechallenges of not having a proper feed-er system for the Reserves, but we arecontinuing with the promotion and


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By L Cpl Ally RakomaPhoto: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole

omen in the SA National DefenceForce as well as within the Safety

and Security sector were recentlyhonoured at a Women's Day celebra-tion at Mbolekwa Stadium inAtteridgeville hosted by Dr GwenRamokgopa, Executive Mayor of theCity of Tshwane.

The theme of the day, "CelebratingWomen in Uniform" gave tribute to allthe women in uniform and their moth-ers, sisters and daughters.

The nurturers of the core values ofthe society within the SANDF, SAPolice Service (SAPS), Tshwane,Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg Metro-politan Police, Emergency MedicalServices and the Fire Brigade formedup in their different uniforms and

decision to fight for her country anddefend the freedom we enjoy. Thesewomen continue to live out the idealsthat stir our nation - honour, duty andsacrifice," said Dr Ramokgopa.

SA Soldier spoke to the parade com-mander, Maj Tlhaole, who mentionedthat women were the custodians of thecore values of society and morality.They are family builders and unifiers."To all women, you are the guidinghands and nurturers. Life has definete-ly taken a turn for the better. Let usorganise ourselves into a potent forcefor a better life for all and win victoryfor mankind," said Maj Tlhaole.

She continued: "This year we cele-brate the SANDF's ten years of peace-keeping. We wish to commend thosewho have been deployed and thosecurrently deployed beyond our bor-ders on peacekeeping missions. They

marched to the stadium led by theparade commander, Maj ConstanceTlhaole from the SA Army EngineerFormation.

Following the pipes, drums and stir-ring trumpet sounds of the SA MilitaryHealth Service (SAMHS) Band, theparade was a splendid, colourful sightas women showed their patriotic zeal.In her keynote address Dr Ramokgopaaddressed the parade with thought-provoking questions, such as: "What ledthese women to wear their country'sand city's uniform? What is it that leadsa woman to put aside her own pursuitof happiness, to subordinate her ownsense of survival, for something larger -something greater?"

"In each and every woman in uni-form here today, and of course manythroughout the country, there is a per-sonal journey that eventually led to the

Admirable role models, fltr: Chaplain Rebeccah Simons (SA Air Force), Sr SuptAnnah Sibaya (Tshwane Metro Police), Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, (Executive Mayor ofthe City of Tshwane), Const Martha Seabi (SAPS) and Maj Constance Tlhaole (SAArmy Engineer Formation).

Celebrating “Women in uniform”

W

play a very important role inpost-conflict and reconstruc-tion and development. Indeedit is women like them whomake admirable role models.Now is the time that we aswomen are making modernhistory, and we must takecontrol of collective securityand justice," she concluded.

Ms Esther Mahlangu,Senior Superintendent fromthe Tshwane Metro Police,said that they as women inuniform were citizen-centredand committed to serve thepublic. "Let us stride boldlythrough life and leave trailsthat others will strive to fol-low," she concluded.

marketing of the Reserve Force systemto the DOD and the broader public. It isevident that there is need for genderand race representivity, in the Res Fstructures, there are very few women,and now this needs to be corrected.There are strategies in place to correctthese imbalances. It will be my respon-sibility in support to Chief DefenceReserves to ensure that all correctivemeasures for Defence Reserves areimplemented. Although we have got

skilled or professional members thatserve in the Res F, we are also beingfaced with the challenge of having alarge number of unemployed youngReserves," she said .

Amidst all these challenges, BrigGen Molefe is determined to succeed "Ireally appreciate this department, forrealising the need to establish a Res F.Since my appointment as SSO in theDefence Reserves and currently beingthe Director, I have realised that as we

are still continuing to benchmark onbest practice internationally on the util-isation of Reserves, some countries arealso benchmarking from us becausethey think we have established an effec-tive Reserve Force system" she said

Brig Gen Molefe has been marriedto Reverend Solomon Molefe since 1991and they have been blessed with twolovely children Kabo (boy-17) andOlebogeng (girl-13). Her hobbies arereading, cooking and socialising.

focus on people


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Article and photos by Lt ColAnnelize Rademeyer, SO1 Com SAArmy Engineer Formation

earch where your strengthlies and hold on to it.Work at it, develop it andsuccess will have to fol-low." These are the wordsof the first student of theMilitary Academy ever to

obtain an Honours Degree inMathematics, Capt Lucky Monaledi.

He is of the opinion that apartfrom his hard work his abilities in thesubject of Mathematics are also a giftfrom God. He compares Mathematicsto soccer. "If you know to whom youmust pass the ball, or when you haveto strike or when you have to shoot,you can play a good game of soccer.

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Strength + Passion + Commitment = Success

"Birds of a feather" at the School of Engineers: CaptLucky Monaledi (left) and Lt Lundi Ncubukezi.

He grabbed theopportunity to be astudent at theMilitary Academyand did the HigherCertificate inMilitary Studies in2004. He got the bestresults inMathematics (94%),Physics (88%) andStatistics (95%). Hewas selected to do aB Mil degree inTechnology, whichhe completed cumlaude with 17 dis-tinctions.

At the end of2008 he completedhis Honours Degreein Mathematics atthe University ofStellenbosch. He did

“Mathematics is exactly the same. Youhave to know what to do when and theresults will be positive."

Captain Monaledi wrote matric atthe Matlaisane High School inHammanskraal in 2000 and achieved amark of 100% in Mathematics, butunfortunately on Standard Grade. In2001 he joined the Youth Foundation toimprove on his matric results. At theend of that year he obtained 98% inMathematics in the Higher Grade and95% for Physics, also in the HigherGrade. He was also the best overalltechnical student.

In 2002 he started his military train-ing at the SA Army Gymnasium inHeidelberg. He joined the SA EngineerCorps and did his corps training at theSchool of Engineers in Kroonstad wherehe was the best academic troop officer.

this part-time as he was appointed asan Academic assistant at the MilitaryAcademy at the School of Science andTechnology.

In 2009 he became a lecture assis-tant in Mathematics, Physics andStatistics at the same department. Hisfuture plans are to enroll for a Mastersdegree in Mathematics at theUniversity of Stellenbosch in 2010,which he should complete by the endof 2012.

On the question of who his rolemodel was, the answer was not theanswer we were expecting - Einstein.He draws a lot of motivation andstrength from his friend, Lt LundiNcubukezi, who is currently a secondyear student at the Military Academy.Lt Ncubukezi also joined the militaryin 2002, but at first was a non-commis-sioned officer in the SA EngineerCorps. He was selected to become anofficer in 2007 and started his studiesat the Military Academy in 2008. Thetwo got to know one another in 2002when they did training at the SAArmy Gymnasium and at the Schoolof Engineers.

Back then they studied together.Now they are working together ona project to redesign the calculationtechniques module for the SAEngineer Troop Commanders and theSergeant courses. Capt Monaledirespects Lt Ncubukezi's commit-ment and endurance in workinghard for what he wants. "Birds of afeather flock together," was themetaphor he used to summarise theirfriendship.

Apart from being a soldier andassistant lecturer Capt Monaledi isalso a husband and father of twoyoung toddlers.


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SA Army InfantryFormation CommandersPledge to be accountable

By Maj Merle Meyer, Com OfficerSA Army Infantry Formation

uring the recent InfantryCommand Cadre Confer-ence the Officers Command-ing and Section Headssigned an accountabilitypledge. The need for theaccountability pledge was

identified by the General OfficerCommanding of SA Army InfantryFormation, Maj Gen ThembaNkabinde, and all the commandersjointly determined what accountabilitymeant for them.

All the competency indicators wereidentified and from this an account-ability pledge was compiled. The com-manders pledged the following:

We uphold the Constitution ofSouth Africa.By accepting the post we occupy,we accept that we are accountableto the people of the RSA.We accept that authority andresponsibility can be delegated, butthe commanders remain account-able for our actions and the actionsof the members under command. We accept that accountability is thepositive attitude that is manifestedthrough the commitment of a lead-er for actions and behaviour thatwill lead to the finding of solutionsand alternatives.Accountability is not the decisionthat a leader has taken, but the sumof credible actions that have takenplace.The commanders further agreed to: Carry out tasks with the utmost

The commanders com-mitted themselves, in theface of resources shortages,to ensure optimal perfor-mance through:

Always displaying apositive attitude.Striving for unity ofcommand and mutualtrust.Ensuring and main-taining open and clearcommand, control andcommunication chan-nels, thus enablingeffective control andfeedback.Conducting propercommand apprecia-tions and detailedplanning to ensurefeasible guidelines.Promoting learningorganisations thatcontinually strive forthe development andgrowth of Infanteers'capabilities.The commanders rede-

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The Pledge of the SA Army Infantry FormationCommanders.

integrity and honesty.Engage in the continual involve-ment and development of thevision of the SA Army InfantryFormation.Commit themselves to the contin-ual development and improve-ment of personal knowledge andskills so that they are empoweredto perform their tasks diligently.Accept the role of follower andleader.Be true to themselves.

dicated themselves to an exceptionalquality of leadership and this canalready be seen in the excellent pre-deployment training that has takenplace in support of the SA Police Serviceduring the Confederations Cup. Thesupport provided during the elections,the quick response in returning to thenorthern border and the excellent finan-cial management and effective spendingof the budget are all aspects in which thecommitment and involvement of thecommanders are seen to be working.


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training

Ensuring the effective-ness of defence policies

By L Cpl Itumeleng MakhubelaPhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

he eighth policy writer'scourse took place at the SADefence Intelligence Collegefrom 27 July to 7 August2009. Forty-five learners, ofwhich some are new to thepolicy writing environment,

were given an opportunity to learnand fine-tune their policy writingskills, confirmed Mr Nick Sendall, theChief Director Defence Policy in hisopening address. The courseaddressed the needs of theDepartment by improving servicedelivery with the limited resources.

The programme has been verypopular in the past and to date 443officials in the DOD and other statedepartments have been trained aspolicy writers. Mr Sendall acclaimedpolicy writing as a "science and an

Tputting these terms in context in theDefence policy writing domain.

The Chief of Corporate Staff, LtGen Rinus Jansen van Rensburg, offi-ciated at the graduation ceremony.Affirming the course as a resoundingsuccess, he congratulated the learn-ers on their wholehearted participa-tion and the presenters on all theirtime and effort throughout thecourse.

Lt Gen Jansen van Rensburg stat-ed that according to the controllingstaff reports the group attending the2009 course was deemed one of themost successful groups yet to haveparticipated. He urged the studentsto involve themselves actively in thepolicy environment and so becomedependable and reliable policy writ-ers in their respective services anddivisions. Three members from theNational Intelligence Agency (NIA)also attended the course.

art" that has many steps, principlesand pitfalls. The course deals mainlywith the "science" of policy writingbut, "the art" of policy writing is per-fected only through extensive prac-tice.

The success of the programmedepends on the active participationand interaction of learners expressingtheir needs and sharing their experi-ences. Mr Sendall stated that most ofthe learners on the course were eitheralready working in a policy environ-ment or were earmarked for suchinvolvement. "Policy writing is hardwork, policy is politics and, lastly,policy is contentious in nature", saidMr Sendall.

Professor (retired) Deon Fourie, arenowned speaker on military strate-gy, was the key note speaker at afunction held during the course. Headdressed the course on values, poli-cy, politics, strategy and doctrine,

Lt Gen Rinus Jansen van Rensburg, Chief of Corporate Staffhanding over a certificate to Maj K.P. Molapo at the SAIntelligence College during the graduation ceremony.

Fltr: Mr Nick Sendall, Chief Director Defence Policy,and Professor Fourie at the course function.


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open day


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Article and photos by S SgtLebogang Tlhaole

he SA Army Engineers(Sappers) held an open day inKroonstad on 8 August 2009 inan effort to maintain a healthyrelationship with the local com-munity and to promote theimage of the DOD.

Judging by the number of peopleattending the event, it was eminent thatthis event was still very popular amongthe public.

In addition, the open day left thepublic with the unique experience ofhaving witnessed the coming togetherof the SA Army Engineers and the verypeople it served.

The aim of the open day was toexpose the community, especially theyouth, to the military environment andto create an opportunity to educate theyouth on military matters and theSANDF. It also served to give the public

operational deployments.Equipment used by the Combat

Engineers was also displayed, includingthe mobile bridge-laying system, themobile detection system (Husky andMeerkat), the water purification system,the foldable floating bridge system andthe workboat.

Various operational constructionssuch as wheeled dozers, full track doz-ers, tractors, cranes and dump truckswere on display. This engineeringequipment is currently utilized in peace-keeping operations in Africa to ensurethe mobility and sustainability of theforces.

It was estimated that over 10 000people visited the open day, which is ashowcase of engineering expertise. Thedemonstrations at the open day high-lighted the state of readiness of the SAArmy Engineer Corps and capabilitiesthat ensure effective participation in anymandated military operation that couldbe sanctioned by the government.

a comprehensive overview of theSANDF's capabilities and its role inhumanitarian and peace support opera-tions.

Schools from the Moqhaka regionwere invited to visit the Sappers on theFriday prior to the open day, with theaim of inspiring and interesting the pre-sent and future generations of youngpeople to serve their country in theSANDF. The open day offered a fun-filled and educational programme foradults and children alike, with variousactivities and exhibitions as well as staticdisplays which included a wide varietyof SA Engineering Corps (SAEC) equip-ment. Although the focus was on thefunctioning of the SAEC, various otherdivisions and SA Army formations alsoparticipated in both the static displaysand the arena programme.

The mobile operational geographicalsystem was displayed, revealing thetechnology utilized by the engineers todeliver professional services during

Various constructions and systems, such as Vlakvark and the mobile bridge-laying system, were also displayed to the community of Moqhaka to demon-strate the capability of the Engineers.

Showcasing the might of the Engineer Corps

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Members from the community tookturns riding the workboat usedrecently in peacekeeping missionsby the Engineers.


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By Kgabo MashamaitePhoto: S Sgt Lebohang Tlhaole

itsepo Secondary School wasrecently privileged to receivea fully equipped, state-of-the-art Hawstone iLab computerclassroom valued at R1Million from Mr ThabangMakwetla, the DeputyMinister of Defence and

Military Veterans. Mr Douglas Tshoga,School Headmaster, stated that thisdonation would contribute to animprovement in the matric pass rate atDitsepo Secondary School.

The R1 million iLab classroom isdesigned as an integrated, self-con-tained unit and is fully equipped withthe latest high-tech computers to pro-vide learners with access to the comput-er training environment. The unit hasbeen designed as an integrated solu-tion, is air-conditioned and linked to theinternet.

This school, which is among the topfive schools in the Limpopo Provincewith an average 92% matric pass rate,could not have received the gesture at abetter time as this school has virtuallyno infrastructure. The school was built

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A dream comes true for thebest performing school

Mr Thabang Makwetla, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans,with Mr Douglas Tshoga, Ditsepo School Headmaster, during the handingover of the Hawkstone iLab Classroom in Ga-Maja Village.

by the Ga-Maja community about 35kilometres outside Polokwane in 1960, sobuildings are outdated and the wallscould crack at any minute, since theschool was not prioritised by theLimpopo Department of Education.

Handing over the modern computerclassroom to the jubilant community, MrMakwetla commended the school man-agement for their diligence as the schoolwas still producing excellent resultsdespite difficult challenges.

"The track record of DitsepoSecondary has inspired my departmentto invest even more in education becauseit is the only tool to bring the communityout of poverty. To realise the fruition ofthis objective, the SANDF together withSAAB South Africa, their private part-ners, saw it necessary to provide properfacilities. This was done by bringing theiLab classroom to this school to uplift thestandard of education in the community.The learners will have an advantage ingetting employment since they would becomputer literate," Mr Makwetla said.

Mr Tshoga, who is not only theSchool Headmaster but also a class teach-er and an administrator, was ecstatic overthis donation. "The contribution is adream come true, given the challenges

we face in our school. We are strugglingwith the difficult challenge of acquiringeducational tools such as laboratories, awell-equipped library and classrooms.Our school's physical structures are in astate of disrepair and I hope this dona-tion is the beginning of good things tocome. I would like to tell theDepartment of Defence and MilitaryVeterans that our school intends achiev-ing a 100% matric pass rate this year, inreturn for the support you gave us," saidMr Tshoga. Mr Daniel Mabote, theCapricorn District Senior Manager in theLimpopo Department of Education, alsowelcomed the contribution by theDepartment of Defence and MilitaryVeterans in conjunction with SAABSouth Africa. Mr Mabote said that hisdepartment had given the parents theassurance that their children would lookafter the computer classroom, as it was agateway to the future.

Some of the learners who spoke toSA Soldier could hardly contain theirexcitement after the handing over of thefully equipped hi-tech laboratory.

"The classroom will equip me withcomputer skills necessary for my electri-cal engineering studies at a tertiary insti-tution. I will also be grateful for the call-up by the SANDF to be trained as anelectrical engineer, since I learned fromthe Chief of SA Army's speech that theydo have Engineers within the service,"an exited Mary Makgoba, a Grade 11learner at Ditsepo Secondary, stated.

According to Prof Mandla Mchunu,the representative of SAAB SouthAfrica, SAAB has, through its SocialInvestment Programme (SIP), approveda sponsorship for two Hawkstone iLabclassrooms to an estimated value of R2million, after it was approached by theSA Army for assistance.

The SA Army was briefed about thechallenges of the school during theImbizo roadshow by the formerMinister of Defence in 2008, as theschool had not been prioritised by theLimpopo Education Department.

The event was also attended by rep-resentatives from the BakenbergTraditional Council.

insight


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Suicide not a viableoption to problemsBy Kgabo Mashamaite Photo: Sgt Elias Mahuma

ith various problems cur-rently faced by the mem-bers of the public in recenttimes, many peoplebecome vulnerable todepression and associatedsocio-economic hard-

ships, some attempt suicide as theironly viable option.

While it is extremely difficult topinpoint the cause of a specific suicideas each case usually has a different setof circumstances. Psychology expertswarn us that societal factors such asmarital and relationship discord, med-ical diagnosis, fiscal problems, etc aremajor contributing factors to depres-sion, which could result in suicide.

According to Col Sara Motala,Head of Psychology and a CounsellingPsychologist at 1 Military Hospital, aperson with suicidal tendencies caneasily be identified through change ofbehaviour, mood and thought. Thesemay be indicators of depression.

"It is also important for peopleto learn to open up …"

"A suicidal individual is at timesreserved and does not want to sharehis/her problems with anyone. Theperson could display signs of dejectionand is at times withdrawn from soci-ety or is reluctant to participate insocial activities. It is therefore impor-tant for people to recognise andobserve individuals within their com-munities displaying those symptomsto enable such people to get profes-sional help. However, it does not nec-essarily mean that if a person is tiredand needs a rest, he is depressed.People should be able to differentiatebetween the two. It is also important

WChaplain Sello Museri, a SANDF

Chaplain based at DefenceHeadquarters Unit, advised individu-als to earnestly consider enrollingthemselves through debt administra-tion institutions in order to have peaceof mind.

In his experience as a spiritualcounsellor for depressed couples,Chaplain Museri attributes the level ofdespair to spiralling debt as one of themain causes of the misery of despon-dent couples, which in most cases candrive a wedge between the membersof a family.

"With a looming global financialcrunch currently gripping the worldeconomies, families are finding it diffi-cult to make ends meet. Breadwinnersare stressed by the prospects of loos-ing their valuable possessions such ascars and their houses, while otherssimply cannot keep up with bondrepayments because of the rising infla-tion rate. As a result couples can sim-ply accuse one another of over-expen-diture and this can cause a riftbetween them. It is therefore impor-tant for a person to sit down andreflect on the situation and consider acredit restraint or approach debtadministrators to find relief for theirmountainous debts. Such a facilitycould help individuals to repay a debtwithin a certain period until it is set-tled," advised Chaplain Museri.

When an individual has alreadyattempted suicide, it is advisable thathe or she be taken to the nearest sick-bay or casualty department at thenearest hospital, where emergencymedical care will be administered.

Ms Hanle Kirkcaldy, a ClinicalPsychologist at 1 Military Hospital,said that when a suicide attempt hasbeen made, the patient should receiveimmediate medical care. All attempts

for people to learn to open up to thoseclosest to them so that they can receiveprofessional help if they experienceoverwhelming challenges in theirlives," says Col Motala, Senior StaffOfficer at 1 Military Hospital'sPsychology Department.

"When a person is beset with somesocial challenges around him/her andthere is not a solid support structure inplace, the risk of a person sliding intodepression is great and he may betempted to commit suicide. Supportstructures could be anything fromspouses, family members, communitymembers, Unit Chaplains, OfficersCommanding in the Unit level to UnitCommanders or an immediate superi-or in the workplace," Col Motalaadded.

Major Christopher Oyston,Clinical Psychologist of 1 MilitaryHospital, says that a person displayingdepressive symptoms, such as dis-turbed sleep, social withdrawal, lossof energy or undue irritation shouldconsider referring themselves to theirnearest medical centre or sickbay,where further medical and/or psycho-logical management can be discussedor decided upon with the patient.

"A depressed individual usuallyoperates from a hopeless and pes-simistic point of view and often cannotsee a solution to their problems.Sometimes suicide seems like the onlyoption for these patients. However,depression is very treatable and has agood prognosis when managed withmedication and psychotherapy. Whenpeople notice a change in thebehaviour of a colleagues or lovedones, when he withdraws from othersand is very negative about himself, lifeand the future, it would be advisableto seek the help of a mental healthprovider," Maj Oyston said.


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Fltr: Col S.C. Motala, Head of Psychology 1 Military Hospital, Maj C.I. Oyston and Ms H. Kirkcaldy, both ClinicalPsychologists at 1 Military Hospital.

should be taken seriously and the con-tributing factors should be investigat-ed by a health care professional.

"After the patient has been attend-ed to by medical personnel at themedical ward, the psychiatrist or psy-chologist on duty will be called toassess the patient. The risk to himselfis assessed on the basis of various fac-tors. The patient may then be admit-ted to the psychiatric ward for furthercare and treatment by a multi-disci-plinary team. This team consists ofpsychiatrists, psychologists, socialworkers, occupational therapists andother health care professionals. Eachof these professionals is uniquely

equipped to deal with the variousaspects of the patient's problems.Together a solution to a problemdeemed previously impossible can befound," Mrs Kirkcaldy explained.

The Chief Human Resources, LtGen Derick Mgwebi, has advisedSANDF members against committingsuicide, and recommended them toseek professional help. He added thatmembers who commit suicide, do notqualify for any military honours attheir funeral services nor will there bemilitary representation at their funer-als.

Recently, a Corporal allegedly shotand killed his wife and later killed him-

self at 10 Air Depot in Thaba Tshwane.The Corporal did not receive a militaryfuneral. The South African PoliceServices (SAPS) and the Board ofInquiry of the Department of Defenceare investigating the incident.

SANDF members who need spiri-tual counselling can contact ChaplainSello Kenneth Museri on (012) 3555602 and make an appointment. Forfurther information on the psycho-logical management of suicide andrelated issues, contact Col S.C.Motala, SSO Psychology 1 MilitaryHospital, on (012) 314 0614 and shewill gladly provide assistance in thisregard.

social resonsibility


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New Hope for the disabled

Article and photo by Pte K.S. Thobejane, CorporateCommunication Clerk, SA ArmySignal Formation

n Casual Day, celebrated on4 September 2009, SA ArmySignal Formation had theopportunity to revive thehopes of the New HopeSchool in Menlyn, a schoolfor disabled children aged

three years and upwards. This schoolhas been adopted by the School ofSignals. This social responsibility is aninitiative that has been managed andexecuted by the School of Signals forthe past three years. "The School ofSignals got the mandate to run theevent due to its available manpower",said Col H.E. Gunter, Officer Com-

Omanding School of Signals. The Schoolof Signals obtains donations annuallyfrom SA Army Signal Formationmembers and private companies aswell as by selling R10 Casual Daystickers. Donations in the form of foodand sweets parcels were received anddistributed and XON Systems, a spon-sor, donated caps for the event.

A total of 409 disabled childrenwere given the chance to interact withsoldiers. New Hope School is not onlya learning institution but also a hometo its learners. The school has residen-tial facilities to accommodate thesechildren during the week and onweekends they go home. "My mom ormy brother comes to pick me up everyFriday. It is nice here," TumeloRampatla, a grade 8 learner fromMpumalanga said.

Pte Mthimunye (right) camouflaging Lerato at New Hope School.

13 yr old Judre Swant counts thedays to Casual Day, because he wantsto enjoy it with his friends. The prin-cipal of New Hope School, Mr DawieHarmse said "Days such as these boostthe children's morale. It motivatesthem to learn and to realise that theyhave a place in the Army and the out-side world. People tend to discrimi-nate against the disabled and that isnot necessary".

The learners happily enjoyedobstacle crossing, which some soldiersdislike. The children were also treatedto activities such as soccer, paintballand water slides. "We want to give thechildren time to laugh, relax and enjoythemselves. Most people reject thembecause of their disabilities. Last yeara learner named Tshepo only wantedto slide on the water slides, becausehis friends could and he couldn't(owing to the severity of his disabili-ty). We helped him to get up on theslide, he then slid down with a smileon his face," said WO2 Maryna Botes.

The event was a great success.WO2 Botes pleaded with individuals,to search into their hearts and supportpeople with disabilities. "Before com-ing here, I took the event lightly as justanother charity, but honestly beinghere touched my heart and that of mycolleagues", she said.

As reporter for the day, I took pic-tures of honest children who do nothave the power to help themselves,but were still positive. Even though itwas very emotional it made me realizethat we must all thank God for whatwe have, and give more, rather thantake.


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social resonsibility


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Joint Operations Tactical HQ KZNBy Ms Hanrie Greebe, Ad AstraPhotos: Courtesy of personnel,Joint Operations Tactical HQ KZN

t the beginning of the yearcontinuous rain over a periodof more than five days causedflooding in large areas ofKwaZulu-Natal. People werestranded on isolated higherground without safe drinking

water or food, their bodies exposed tothe elements. Out at sea, a foreignfreighter passing through SouthAfrican waters sent out a distress signal- one of its crewmembers was injuredduring a storm. In the DrakensbergMountains a group of students hikingduring their April recess suddenlyencountered the harshness of naturewhen a girl slipped on dry grass andfell down a precipice, breaking her legand fracturing her skull. In some ruralareas of the Province, there is fear ofcholera, a killer disease spread throughthe innocent looking streams wherepeople meet to obtain their water fordrinking, cooking and domestic main-tenance. Surely this is a situation thatcalls for strategic management and co-ordination.

Joint Operations TacticalHeadquarters KwaZulu-Natal (JOpTacHQ KZN) in Durban has a unique func-tion in the SANDF that addresses thecomplexities of a province such asKwaZulu-Natal. The OfficerCommanding of JOpTacHQ KZN, ColN. Bavuma, who has been at the helmof JOpTacHQ KZN since 23 August2006, explained some of the mostimportant responsibilities of JOpTac-HQ KZN: "We exercise control over allDefence Air Operations involving allo-cated air resources in JOpTacHQ,which is the geographical area ofKwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern

AThe Officer Commanding of JointOperations Tactical HQ KwaZulu-Natal, Col Nkosana Bavuma.

An Oryx helicopter from 15 Squadron tasked byTactical HQ to airlift an injured person from afishing ship.

Maritime Exclusive Economic Zone. Weensure that the intelligence sectionmaintains contact with all the phases ofoperations. We issue warning orders tothe relevant flying units and unitsresponsible for supplying the MobileAir Operations Team for possible jointoperations. We do joint planning andintegration of all military operationsinvolving air resources in JOpTacHQKZN and we also provide inputs andguidelines for the utilisation of the airsensors, which may include air photog-raphy, tactical image interpretationcapabilities, etc".

This is a phenomenal co-ordinatingtask, including helicopters from 15Squadron at Air Force Base Durban, andnon-military interest groups, such as:

SA Search and RescueOrganisation, which ishumanitarian innature and accepts itsmoral obligation toassist aircraft and peo-ple in distress.Mountain Club of SAand/or NatureConservationMetro Police KZNProvincial and LocalDisaster Management(primarily Fire-fight-ing Services)Marine and CoastalManagement(Department ofEnvironmentalAffairs)Sea Patrol Co-ordinat-ing Committee (CapeTown, Southern Cape,Overberg andNorthern Cape)Medical Rescue andCo-ordinatingCommittee


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(Pietermaritzburg, KZN)Netcare 911 (provides pre-hospitalrisk management and emergencyassistance)EMRS (Air Mercy Services heli-copters)Volunteer Emergency MedicalAssociationAirports Company South Africa -DurbanKZN Wildlife (marine and landbased)National Sea Rescue Institute ofSouth AfricaPrivate and State hospitalsMaritime Rescue Co-ordinatingCommittee (Cape Town)Various specialised SA PoliceService units (Special Task Force,National Intervention Unit, includ-ing K9 Search and Rescue)JOpTacHQ KZN is staffed by mem-

bers of all the Services with 44 full-timemembers and 18 Reserve Force mem-bers. This team works very closelytogether in order to support the peopleof South Africa through the co-ordina-tion of search and rescue operations,disaster relief, border patrolling andresponse to possible crises that mightarise during certain situations, such aselections or the FIFA Soccer World Cupin 2010.

Col Bavuma, is very proud of hisstaff component. "My staff are motivat-

ed, co-operative and highly disciplined.This is proved particularly during thenumerous deployments in which weparticipate. They walk the extra mile -they go beyond the call of duty."

There is a distinctly close relation-ship between 15 Squadron at Air ForceBase Durban and JOpTacHQ KZN. ColBavuma explained that according to thespecific situation the contribution to bemade by the SANDF must be analysed- particularly the risk involved to mili-tary aircraft and the safety of the crew.He explained: "We have regular meet-ings with other agencies where all mat-ters that affect the province are dis-cussed. Owing to the complexity of theprovince, specific disaster managementmeetings are also held on a regularbasis as a separate forum".

Lt Col JJ Geldenhuys, SO1 AirOperations at JOpTacHQ KZN, is theman with his finger on the provincialpulse. He is a strong advocate of stake-holder relationship management. Withhis amenable character, the people inhis network of responsibility learnedthrough experience that he was a manwho could be relied upon - alwaysavailable to manage any strategic situa-tion in the province. The safety of thepeople is his concern and his passion ishis Service, the SA Air Force.

"Every time you speak to any ofyour stakeholders it is an opportunity

to market the services of the SA AirForce. Through your track record youhave proved that it is an organisationthat can be relied upon," said Lt ColGeldenhuys. A considerable numberof sea rescue operations are co-ordinat-ed through JOpTacHQ KZN each year.

In 2008 Lt Col Geldenhuys realisedthat for sea rescue operations the heli-copter pilots and crew were highlytrained, but he identified a need for anaccompanying support team. He there-fore established the specialist rescuesupport team consisting of a doctor,paramedic and two SA Navy divers,now known as a "Medical AirborneRescue Team". If a rescue mission is farout at sea, two helicopters are tasked insupport of each other, both with aMaritime Rescue Team on board. "Thisis very important, because if some-thing goes wrong with one helicopter,then you have a back-up team to con-tinue the mission," said Lt ColGeldenhuys.

The success of JOpTacHQ KZN isto be seen not only in the regular exer-cises held between 15 Squadron andthe Medical Airborne Rescue Team,but in the wider context joint exercisesof all the stakeholders. Lt ColGeldenhuys finds his work deeply sat-isfying; as he described it: "The TacticalHQ makes a positive contribution tothe province. Everybody knows we arethere for support; we all form a strongcohesive bond in service of theprovince which makes me proud towear the SA Air Force uniform".

An Oryx helicopter from 15 Squadron tasked by Tactical HQ to airlift aninjured person from a fishing ship.

During Operation BATA Special TaskForce members were deployed dur-ing the Public Service strike.

skills evaluation


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Musketry performance that inspired admiration

By L Cpl Ally RakomaPhotos: S Sgt Lebogang Tlhaole

artina Navratilova oncesaid: "When you are awinner, you have to setthe standard for excellencewherever you go and timeand again come up withone consistent great per-

formance after another."The Warrant Officer of the SA

Army, SCWO Mothusi Kgaladi, host-ed the 2009 Warrant Officers (WOs)and Non-commissioned Officers(NCOs) Regimental Skills Evaluationat the SA Army Gymnasium inHeidelberg from 17 to 20 August 2009.

The musketry skills at the heart ofthe competition revealed a wide vari-ety of skill-at-arms in various cate-gories, e.g. fitness, theory, neatness,shooting, pace stick and map-reading.The event was a good reflection of mil-itary tradition and was a wonderfuldisplay of precision. Participatingteams from the SA Army and interna-tional teams from Botswana, Lesotho,Namibia, Mozambique, Swaziland,Malawi and Zimbabwe provided spec-tators with a spectacular and thrillingshow of skill, intelligence, obedience,agility and mutual confidence.

All waited in anticipation of thefinal massed drilling, including ademonstration of foot and arm drills

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Catalysts for uplifting discipline, fltr: WO1 Letlhogile Tshweu (Botswana), WO1 Peter Matsabisa (Lesotho), WO1 JamesKamphenga (Malawi), CWO Erick Snyders (SA Army), A S/M Franklin Peters (Namibia), WO1 Fana Dlamini (Swaziland)and WO1 Julius Ncube (Zimbabwe).

performed in slow and quick marchthat showed qualities of exceptionalteamwork.

At the closure of the competition,Maj Gen Louis Dlulane, the ChiefArmy Force Structure, said that theprimary value of drill was to preparetroops for battle. "Drill instils disci-pline and discipline is an integral partof military life. Drill teaches an indi-vidual to respond to commands with-out hesitation. The objectives that areaccomplished by drill are teamwork,confidence, pride, alertness, attentionto detail and esprit de corps, and theseare as important to modern armies asthey were to the ancient armies," saidMaj Gen Dlulane.


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The competition was made possi-ble through the generous sponsorshipof SA Army Foundation.

Results in the AfricaCompetitionIndividual CompetitionThe Africa Trophy for the fittest sol-dier: Cpl M.M. Makanatleng (InfantryFormation)Best Shottist: Cpl Moraladi (TrainingFormation)Best Lance Corporal: L Cpl D.Mwalinaga (Namibia)Best Corporal: Cpl M.M. Makanatleng(Infantry Formation)Best Sergeant: Sgt L.C. Netshivhambe(Training Formation)Best Staff Sergeant: S Sgt T. Balemogi(Botswana)Best Warrant Officer: MWO S. Louw(Infantry Formation)

Pace Stick CompetitionBest Team: Infantry Formation (ATeam)Best Sticker: Cpl B.R. Scotch(Botswana)Best Driver: Sgt S.J. Mabuku(Botswana)

Results in the SA ArmyCompetitionIndividual CompetitionThe SA Army Trophy for the fittestsoldier: Sgt S.S. Makhooe (EngineerFormation)Best Shottist: L Cpl V.H. Fillis(Armour Formation)

Best Lance Corporal: L Cpl V.H.Fillis (Armour Formation)Best Corporal: Cpl D.J.P. de Bus(Armour Formation)Best Sergeant: Sgt P.M. Mvandaba(Infantry Formation)Best Staff Sergeant: S Sgt R.C. Els(Armour Formation)Best Warrant Officer: MWO S.Louw (Infantry Formation)

Pace Stick CompetitionBest Team: Infantry Formation (A Team)Best Sticker: Sgt J. Louw (TrainingFormation)Best Driver: WO2 T.B. Makhasani(Training Formation)AFRICA GRAND PRIX TROPHY:Combined first place - Zimbabwe andInfantry FormationSA ARMY GRAND PRIX TROPHY:Armour Formation.

Soldiers showing exceptional teamwork during the pace stick drill.

SCWO Mothusi Kgaladi, the Warrant Officer of the SA Army, presenting theSA Army Grand Prix Trophy to CWO Floors Venter, the SA Army ArmourFormation Warrant Officer.

sport


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CISM ESALO Volleyballtournament a successBy Kgabo MashamaitePhotos: Sgt Elias Mahuma

galaxy of volleyball starsfrom at least six SouthAfrican Developing Com-munity (SADC) Defenceforces went to the ArmySupport Base Bloemfonteinfor the Counseil International

du Sport Militaire (CISM) East andSouthern African Liaison Office(ESALO) 2009 volleyball tournamentat Tempe Military Base from 27 to 31July 2009.

Borrowed from the French wordfor the Military Olympic SportsGames, the CISM ESALO volleyballtournament is held every four yearsand its main aim is to unearth andshowcase talented military volleyballplayers from the SADC memberstates.

The championships featured mili-tary personnel from the SANDF, theLesotho Defence Force (LDF),Botswana Defence Force (BDF),Umbutfo Swaziland Defence Force(USDF), Namibian Defence Force(NDF) and the Angolan ArmedForces (AAF).

The men's semi-final games start-ed like a house on fire with theSANDF pitted against the USDF onCourt C. At stake was a place in thefinals, and the winning team would becrowned the reigning champions forthe next four years.

The SANDF won the first set 25 -15, much to the delight of the homecrowd. However, the SANDF's perfor-mance took a downward spiral afterthe break and they lost three consecu-tive sets, eventually loosing out to theUSDF by 1-3. The SANDF men thenhad to settle for third and fourth place

A

beating the SANDF 25 to 22 in the sec-ond set. The NDF then extended itslead in a closely contested third set byregistering 30 points against the 28 ofthe SANDF, which resulted in the NDFclinching the sought after CISMESALO Volleyball 2009 Champion-ships trophy, registering a 3-1 win overSANDF.

The equally pulsating CISMESALO Volleyball Championshipsmen's finals between the BDF and theUSDF produced another excitingmatch. The BDF had the advantage ofthe USDF contingent as it fielded threelanky players to produce ferociousblocks and serves. The BDF took thefirst set by 25 points to the 22 of the

The NDF beat the SANDF ladies by 3 sets to 1to clinch the CISM ESALO VolleyballTournament 2009 title.

USDF. The BDF then extended its leadin the second set by 25 points to the 14of the USDF in the second set. TheUSDF then tried to claw their wayback in the third set and reached 20points only to be passed in the lastminute by the BDF's 25 points. TheBDF was declared the CISM ESALOVolleyball 2009 Championships win-ners in the men's category.

Addressing the CISM ESALO 2009delegates at the glittering closing cere-mony, the General OfficerCommanding of the Army SupportBase Bloemfontein, Brig Gen MorrisMoadira, thanked the organizers forhosting a highly successful tourna-ment. "When you came here on the

play-offs, which they lostby 4 sets to 1, effectivelyrelegating the SANDF mento the 4th place.

The SANDF ladies hadthe better of the USDF,beating them by with 3 setsto 2 in the semi-finals. TheCISM ESALO ladies wereheld on Court A at theBloemfontein IndoorSports Complex. Therewere some fireworks as theSANDF locked horns withthe NDF. Both teamsmatched each other poundfor pound in each set, thewinner of each set manag-ing to register high scores.

The NDF drew firstblood, beating the SANDF26 by 24 in the first set. TheSANDF then came backwith guns blazing in thesecond set, beating theNDF by 25 to 21 to level thescore. The NDF clawed itsway back to the top by


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first day of the championships, I madea promise that your stay would be amemorable one, you would alwayscherish. The facilities here at Tempe

are of a high standard and when arequest comes we will be ready to hostanother tournament", said Brig GenMoadira said.

"The tournament organisers did anexcellent job and ensured a successfulevent, I will report to the SANDF topmanagement. The organisers workedtirelessly day and night to ensure thateverything ran smoothly. I must makea special mention of the ArmySupport Base Bloemfontein, whichprovided excellent facilities," conclud-ed Brig Gen Sedibe.

The following players won awardsthat were presented to them by BrigGen Sedibe at the closing ceremony:

SPIKER: Pte Machawe Malindiza(USDF men) and L Cpl Tjerije Magtte(NDF); BLOCKER: L Cpl FrancisDingwe (BDF men) and F Sgt Petrovan Niekerk (SANDF women); SET-TER: Pte Ntlhanngoe Lebohang (LDFmen) and Pte Kasheeta Ndinelago(NDF women); SERVER: L CplBoitumelo Baleseng (BDF men) and LCpl Sepiriti Marethabile (LDFwomen) as well as the MOSTVAUABLE PLAYER: Lt ColEmmanuel Fernandez (FAA men) andL Cpl Jabu Mzizi (USDF women). Thespecial award for the team of the tour-nament went to the Botswana DefenceForce for showing consistency and fairplay through out the tournament.

Brig Gen Aubrey Sedibe (left) hands over the trophy to the BDF captain afterthey scooped the CISM ESALO 2009 Volleyball Championships by beatingUSDF by 3-0 sets.

Brig Gen Aubrey Sedibe congratulates the NDF ladies captainafter her team was crowned the CISM ESALO 2009 champions.

The Head of Dele-gation of the CISMESALO tournament,Brig Gen Aubrey Sedibe,also praised the variousstakeholders for ensur-ing that the logistics andthe planning of the tour-nament went accordingto plan.

Players in action during the CISM ESALO Volley-ball men semi-finals between the SANDF and theUSDF. USDF beat the SANDF by 3sets to 1.

sport


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Let your feet do the walking…By Kgabo MashamaitePhotos: Cpl Itumeleng Kedijang, 6 ASU Bloemspruit

n estimated 500 SANDFmembers braved two chillymornings on 9 and 10September 2009 to partici-pate in the 5th SANDF 2009Walking Championships inthe DOD Mobilisation

Centre in Bloemfontein at the De Brugtraining area.

The event began on theWednesday morning in (5 degreesCelsius) perfect weather for enduranceathletes that came from all militarywalking associations countrywide. Theathletes' enthusiasm was high as theytook advantage of the favourable con-ditions to negotiate the difficult obsta-cle course on the route.

While portraying a positive imageof the SANDF the main objectives ofthe event were to enhance force prepa-ration in the SANDF, promote teambuilding, general physical fitness and ahealthy lifestyle.

The first day was a 75 kilometreroute where athletes encounteredcourse obstacles while for others it wasa dress rehearsal to measure theirwalking time and to explore differentwalking rhythms.

Precisely at 08:00 a cannon wasfired to mark the start of the 5thSANDF 2009 Walking Championshipsand highly enthusiastic masters andsenior ladies' teams began to race. Theevent over two days had to be calculat-ed to get the average time of the win-ners in all categories.

The categories were as follows:Masters men & women teams, Veteranmen & women teams, Senior men andwomen teams (a&b), Senior mixedmen & women teams and individual

men and women. Among the courseobstacles encountered were rocky andsteep Piaters Kop, a muddy and steepdriving range used for off-road andinfantry combat vehicles.

On Thursday, which was the sec-ond and final day of the race, athleteswere in high spirits as they sang anddanced. The atmosphere was electric.At exactly 07:30 a cannon was fired tomark the start of the walk day of thechampionship. The first group ofwalkers passed the 10 km mark atabout 08:20 with the mixed infantryteam.

According to Capt Kobus Jacobs,Army Support Base (ASB)Bloemfontein Range Safety Officer,who was driving the leading vehicle toclear the way for the athletes, the last

A

leg of the event was more of a test ofcharacter than just a championshipwalk.

"Today's route will not be the samefor all the athletes, the obstacle cours-es are towards the end of the 40 kmand, as I see it, this is not only a test ofone's fitness but of mental ability aswell. To make it more interesting, theathletes will have to negotiate allobstacle courses and their fitness andmental state will be tested to theutmost", said Capt Jacobs.

At the refuelling point after 11 kmthe leading teams could be seen strain-ing in 12 cm of sand.

The leadership positions startedchanging after the 22 km mark. Thefirst obstacle course (the driving rangecourse) favorites were: CPO Nhlanhla

Fltr: Rfn Gregory Schwartz, Rfn Setshaba Kolokome and CPO NhlanhlaKhanyile battle it out during the 5th SANDF Walking Championships at theDe Brug Training Centre. CPO Khanyile won the championships by clockingan impressive 7:27:18 time, followed by Rfn Schwartz with an overall7:41:49.Rfn Kolokome came fifth with an overall 7:58:50.


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Kanyile, Pte Gregory Schwartz, PteSetshaba Kolokome, Pte TshegofatsoLeshiba and AB Myolisi Xayo, whoclosed in on the leading teams.

CPO Khanyile was declared theoverall winner of the 5th SANDFWalking Championships 2009 in themen's category by clocking an impres-sive 7:27:18, followed by Rfn GregorySchwartz with an overall of 7:41:49 andAB Myolisi Xayo with 7:42:21. Theywere followed by Pte TshegofatsoLeshiba with 7:44:10 and Rfn SetshabaKolokome with 7:58:50.

The fastest walker in the seniorladies' category was 24 year-old SimonsTown Fleet Command based S LtMphoki Bokaba, who registered anoverall time of 8:44:39, followed byMantshadi Lemela, a 22 year-old 2009Military Skills DevelopmentMechanised Infantry Combat trainee at1 SA Infantry Bloemfontein whoclocked 9:26:53 and A.L. Sono with10:28:46.

The other results were as follows:Senior Men's Teams: BMWC with 6members 8:03:18; SAS Saldanha 5 mem-bers 8:14:49 and School of Engineers 5members 8:34:24. Ladies Teams:BMWC with 5 members 10:01:33; WC

Snr Ladies with 5 members 10:29:25and Potch Defence "C" with 5 members10:46:25. Prestige Teams: 10 Air Depot9:30:30 with 5 members and SE Capewith 5 members 9:59:07 Veteran MenIndividuals: Mkololo V.J. clocked7:59:54, Msulwa T.E. 8:12:00; MacabelaM.K. 8:35:57 Veteran LadiesIndividuals: C.Scheepers 8:49:47; Z.

Olivier 9:55:27 and M.L. van Heerden11:07:55. Masters Men Individuals:M.A Ramaotswa 8:30:16, W.D. Carolus9:14:45 and S.P. Shoba 9:58:44 MastersLadies Individuals: G. van Heerden9:33:07.

Addressing the delegates at theprize-giving ceremony, Lt Col KobusLouw, the Second in Command of theDOD Mobilisation Centre thanked allthe participants for the good competi-tive spirit and behaviour during theevent. Lt Col Louw also thankedBloemfontein Unit Commanders andall their walkers and personnel fortheir logistical support that made theevent a success.

As he was handing out trophiesand medals to the winners, Col EtienneStep, Chairperson of the SANDFWalking Association, said: "The hand-ing out of trophies and medals to hon-our military members and sports menand women is a custom that stretchesover many years. However, trophiesand medals are not merely handed out,but are earned. It is my honour andpleasure to congratulate the receiversof the trophies and medals on theirachievements. With almost 400 walk-ers, the relatively high temperaturesand the difficult terrain the competi-tion was very strong and it was noeasy achievement. You have alldeserved it."

In the lead S Lt Mphoki Bokaba on her way to scooping the 5th SANDF 2009Walking Championships first prize for the senior ladies at the Brug TrainingCentre.

Dynamite in small packages: Col Phillip van Wyk, OC ASB Potchefstroom(left) congratulates Pte Mantshadi Lemela as runner-up for the 5th SANDFWalking Championships in the senior ladies category, while Col Etienne Step(Blue Sweater) looks on.


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"The responsibility for the implementation and ultimate success of Operation Clean Audit (OCA) rests with everybodywithin the department and I, the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, have pledged my full commitmentand cooperation to ensuring that the department achieves a clean audit in the foreseeable future. I urge you to dothe same; remember it starts with you" - quote by the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Mr ThabangMakwetla, on Operation Clean Audit.

Operation CLEAN AUDIT (OCA) is an initiative of the Department of Defence (DOD) to clear the audit qualificationsfor the Department. The Auditor General of South Africa has for the past four financial years issued a qualified auditopinion on the financial statements of the DOD. The Auditor General has a constitutional mandate as the SupremeAudit Institution (SAI) of South Africa. SAI exists to strengthen our country's democracy by enabling oversight,accountability and governance in the public sector, thereby building public confidence.

The biggest challenge for the Department, as is the case in most of thegovernment, is that the current systems, in particular the financial man-agement systems, do not necessarily support all the requirements forthe DOD to comply with the relevant accounting standards and thePublic Finance Management Act, the PFMA. Other factors that areinhibiting the DOD from complying with the PFMA include the inherentchallenges in developing and implementing key internal controls withinthe department and non-compliance with the relevant policies and pro-cedures. This has led to the DOD not being able to account for andreport on its resources for the past number of years.

These problems are compounded further by the capacity constraintsfacing government in general, and the lack of the required skills andcompetencies in accounting and auditing.

All these known factors have directly and/ or indirectly contributed to theDOD receiving the qualified audit reports from the Auditor General.

How the OCA aims to assist the DOD inachieving a clean audit report

The approach adopted by the OCA team is to assist the DOD, firstly inidentifying and confirming all of the root causes for the audit qualifica-tions, secondly to put measures in place to address these root causes,including developing and implementing improved policies and procedures and internal controls and, thirdly, to trainand provide DOD employees with the skills to be able to perform their duties more efficiently and effectively.

The ultimate objective is to achieve quality financial reporting and to adopt an adequate system of internal controls aswell as improved policies, procedures and adherence thereto, all of which are critical to achieving a clean audit report.

The OCA team is made up of members of the DOD and a team of external consultants, who have been brought in toprovide the DOD with the additional capacity and the accounting and auditing skills and expertise required to carry outa project of this nature. However, the ultimate responsibility for implementing the solutions being introduced by theOCA team rests with every member of the DOD.

OCA progress so far

The project is currently in its ninth month of implementation and progress has already been made in the 2008/09financial year in which three audit qualifications from the previous financial year have now been cleared. Roadshowsare currently being planned in which the team will share more details on the project with everyone affected and pro-vide some basic training in what is required of them to participate in and contribute to achieving a clean audit report.So look out for the roadshow near you and remember: It starts with YOU!

Operation CLEAN AUDIT - It starts with YOU!


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