Dalview resident Rob Beech (52) is the Old Bill of the Cosy Corner Moth Shellhole. He is married to Yvonne (52) and has three children, Matthew (26), Nicola Robyn (24) and Ayrton (22).
• Tell us about the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (Moth).
The order was formed in 1927 in memory of fallen servicemen of World War One.
The founder, “Moth O” (Charles Evenden) felt that people’s memories were beginning to fade to the sacrifices made by those who had given up their lives in the defence of freedom during the Great War.
• How many members does the Cosy Corner Shellhole have?
About 20.
Our sister shellhole, Windy Corner, who share our premises but meet on a different date, also have about 20 members or so.
• Who can join and what are the requirements?
The Moth is an ex-servicemen organisation, initially formed for those who had seen front line service.
It was expanded to include allied World War Two combatants, then Vietnam, Korea, and later those who served their country during the South African Border War from 1966 to 1990.
• Tell us about your association with the order? How and when did you become involved?
I joined the Moth, and Cosy Corner in particular, in 2000, ostensibly to be with some of my former comrades and brothers.
I have served as Old Bill, Wee Bill, Pay Bill and Padre.
• What is an Old Bill, when were you elected and what are your duties?
An Old Bill is the head of the executive of a shellhole, like a chairperson, elected by the floor, usually on an annual basis.
His deputy is the Wee Bill, the financial office is the Pay Bill and the secretary is known as the Scribe.
In short, his duties are to head up the exec and take care of the administrative and other needs of the shellhole.
This year is my third year as Old Bill.
• The phrase ‘Lest we forget’ is commonly used in war remembrance services and events. Why is it important for future generations to remember?
It’s important to remember both the service and the sacrifice of past generations and to help ensure we do not keep on making the same mistakes over and over again.
It should also inspire us to serve.
• Why do you think it’s necessary to have organisations for military veterans?
War, despite what Hollywood portrays, is often not a pleasant experience.
Many veterans suffer emotionally, as well as physically because of their experiences and it is often very difficult for those who return to be able to express themselves or their feelings, certainly not to those who do not share those experiences.
The order is based on three ‘ideals’, namely true comradeship, mutual help and sound memory.
So we remember together, we support each other and we enjoy our bond.
• How did your military service and experiences affect your life?
Without sounding pompous, I believe it made me the man I am today.
It taught me discipline, dedication, ‘vasbyt’ and gave me a belief in myself and direction in life.
It allows me to dig deep when I need to.
It taught me I can get on with anyone.
• What is your occupation?
I manage a fencing company which my late dad started in 1980.
• Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
I have a very busy life. I love dirt bikes and I ride as often as I can.
I serve on the District Moth Committee as Wee Bill and I help out at Cosy Corner Moth Cottages.
I have been involved with youth for many years (we have another 100 kids dotted around the world of all shapes and sizes and colours), I dabble in art and I love to cook.
I also attend gym four nights a week to try to stay in shape and prepare for the next 52 years.
• Who are some of your personal heroes, and why? Do you consider yourself like them in any ways?
Not many of my heroes are still alive, but to name a few: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool footballer), for being a small town boy who made it big but remained himself; Ayrton Senna (world champion racing driver), for his passion and tenacity; and my late dad, for his humility and honesty, wit and humour and indomitable spirit.
• If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be and why?
Creation – or maybe the dinosaurs! I would love to know the truth!
• What do you feel you have bragging rights to?
The successes I have had in life are very humbling.
A lot of it was honestly luck or divine grace.
I have been blessed with incredible parents, and a loving, all suffering wife who has stood by my side through thick and thin and who deserves most of the credit for my ‘achievements’.
• What is your favourite thing about Brakpan?
I can honestly say I am a proud Brakpanite.
I love the old school quirkiness and the sense of community.
I have lived here since 1974 and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else, except maybe Umtentweni in KwaZulu-Natal.
