At least four of some of the country’s highest service medals comprising of the Tshumelo Ikatelaho Service, Operation Uxolo Mandela, 20 Years and the 10 Years Good Service medal were conferred to members of Air Force Base Hoedspruit for their loyal service rendered in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

The ceremony occasioned at the Air Force Base Hoedspruit’s sport complex on 27 June 2017. Among those who were honoured on the day were three recipients representing the South African Military Health Services (SAMHS) and 12 from the South African Air Force (SAAF).

We should all remember our heroes and heroines

Also in attendance was Director Education and Training Development (DETD), Brigadier General Kevin Moonsamy and his wife Mrs Janessa Moonsamy. As he delivered his keynote address, Director SAAF Logistics, Brigadier General Patrick Sehlare who officiated as the revue officer, conveyed the message of congratulations to the recipients from the Chief of the South African Air Force.

Furthermore, General Sehlare told the audience that the awarding of the medals denotes recognition by the state for outstanding achievement done by members and that it was a befitting moment which is also in line with the military tradition of the South African National Defence Force. He thanked the sacrifice and effort made by members of the SAAF, the recipients and their families in achieving the set goals and objectives of the organization.

The role of Air Force Base Hoedspruit is to provide helicopter flying services, basic military training, command and control, in flight command and control, protection services and the medical services, he said. In addition, General Sehlare said that it was the duty of Air Force Base Hoedspruit to mould and shape airman to become commanders and leaders of the South African Air Force for future utilization by the SANDF.

Air Force Command and Control School under the leadership of Colonel Nation Mokgwabone was honoured to receive five foreign students (two from Zambia and three from Zimbabwe) to be trained as air traffic controllers. He urged all members of the SAAF including the Regular Force, Reserve Force and the Defence Civilians to commit themselves and maintain a high standard of professionalism and workmanship.

By so doing, this will assist the SAAF in striving for air power excellence, he said. The air force takes pride to develop competent and highly skilled soldiers for utilization by the SANDF both internally and externally. Therefore, the training provided is of international standard.

As a collective, we aspire to be an air force that inspires confidence. General Sehlare urged all citizens of the country to treat and respect each other with dignity, and should contribute by working hard in an effort to protect the democracy fought by the youth of 16 June 1976. “As we celebrate youth month, we should all remember our heroes and heroines who died serving the nation hundred years ago during the sinking of the SS Mendi”.  General Sehlare concluded by urging all members of the SAAF to contribute by giving back to the community, the people of South Africa.