Regiment Botha – Freedom of Town Parade

 Following the same procedure as most years, apart from a few changes in the programme, Regiment Botha once again had the honour to exercise its Freedom of the Town of Barberton. The parade took place on Saturday morning and as on every occasion it was a truly impressive event.

Units that were also given the Freedom of Town are South African Irish Regiment, Wits Rifles as well as the Transvaal Scottish Regiment.
These regiments were all based in Barberton at one period or another during World War 2 and continue their association with Barberton by their participation. This year however, South African Irish Regiment and Wits Rifles weren’t part of the proceedings.

Master of Ceremonies, Amor Adlem, once more did an outstanding job.
While waiting for all the attendees to arrive, the Regiment Botha unit choir performed some songs before the South African Army Band Polokwane, led by WO Pieterson, entertained the crowd with their outstanding march and music. The opening scripture was conducted by Past Tom Cotsho.

It was a proud Maj Mari-line Janse van Rensburg who led the soldiers of Regiment Botha in their march to the podium where Lt Col APC Joubert joined them before Cllr Makhabela, in the absence of the executive mayor of Umjindi, Lazaros Mashaba, gave a speech in honour of Regiment Botha.
Led by Lt KV Shungube and Lt PC Magapa, the troops were then inspected by Lt Col APC Joubert, the OC of Regiment Botha, Brig Genl MJ de Goede and Cllr Makhabela.

Before the day came to an end with the Sibuko Simaswati dancers from Emjindini who performed traditional dances, the parade itself was concluded by army vehicles driving past the memorial in convoy. It was a splendid event as always, but being the only town in the Lowveld to host such an event, it was truly a disappointment to see how few of the town’s community and business people were present.

It was also disappointing that the executive mayor of Umjindi had cancelled at the last minute; however, Cllr Makhabela executed the task at hand very well.
Barberton Times urges the town’s people to make an effort to attend the Freedom of Town parade next year. Come and support Regiment Botha as they march through Barberton with weapons drawn, drums beating and colours flying as this is a tradition that goes all the way back to Roman times and is truly one that should be upheld for future generations.

Not only was the parade itself done to perfection, but it is good to know that Barberton has the troops of Regiment Botha only a short distance from town. Congratulations once again to everyone involved who made the day outstanding.