Military history society hosts February double bill
From one of the Royal Navy’s most controversial wartime disasters to behind-the-scenes diplomacy in Taiwan, Durban history enthusiasts are in for a compelling afternoon of insight and intrigue.
DURBAN history enthusiasts can expect an afternoon of intrigue and insight when the KZN branch of the South African Military History Society hosts its February illustrated talks.
The programme opens with a short presentation by Roy Bowman on the sinking of the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious during the early days of World War II. The loss of Glorious and her escorts marked the largest single loss of life suffered by the Royal Navy during the war.
The tragedy has remained controversial for decades, with the findings of the Admiralty Board of Enquiry sealed for 100 years. Bowman will outline what is known about the disaster and the questions that still surround it.
The main address will be delivered by Colonel Brian Adams, who previously impressed local audiences with his account of commanding the Bushmen Battalion during the Border War. This time, he will turn his attention to “The Role and Function of a Military Attaché,” drawing on his personal experiences serving as Military Attaché in Taipei, Taiwan (Republic of China) between 1986 and 1989.
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Phil Everitt, chair of the KZN Branch of the South African Military History Society, said the February line-up offers both historical depth and personal perspective. “The sinking of HMS Glorious remains one of the most controversial naval losses of the Second World War, and much of the story has only gradually come to light,” Everitt said.
“Col Brian Adams will also give us a unique and somewhat different presentation based on his personal experiences as a Military Attaché, it’s not something many people get to hear about first-hand.” He added that the event is open to anyone with an interest in military history. “This will be an excellent afternoon with two outstanding speakers, and visitors are most welcome.”
The meeting will take place on Saturday, February 21, at 13:30 for 14:00 at St Cyprian’s Church Hall off Umbilo Road. Entry is free and open to the public, although a R20 donation toward the car guard, which also includes entry into the monthly raffle, is requested. For more information, contact Phil Everitt on 084 437 1636.
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