Honouring the life of a soldier
Sydney Stuart, who resided in Newcastle, was a South African soldier who served in the 11th Field Ambulance of the South African Medical Corps.
World War II will always be known as one of the most ferocious wars ever.
While the world’s armies fought, it is often forgotten that South Africans were also involved in battle.
Sydney Stuart, who resided in Newcastle, was a South African soldier who served in the 11th Field Ambulance of the South African Medical Corps.
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Curator of Fort Amiel Museum, Louis Eksteen, and Andrè Erwee, a retired teacher, recently published a book about Mr Stuart’s experiences in World War II.
“I have been interested in World War II for some time as my grandfather fought in the war. I went to Monte Stanco to meet with members of the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (MOTH), where Bim Philpot introduced me to Sydney,” explained Mr Erwee.
Mr Erwee interviewed Mr Stuart 20 years ago with the intention pinning down his biography.
However, the records remained dormant until Mr Erwee met Mr Eksteen.
The two wrote the book together, combining history and Mr Stuart’s memories.
“Mr Stuart was very articulate. He remembered dates and names, showing no confusion whatsoever about his experience in World War II,” Mr Eksteen said.
The authors said they learned a lot while researching information for the book.
“World War II was not my strong point, which is one of the reasons I worked on the book with Mr Erwee, as I thought it was the ideal way to expand my knowledge,” said Mr Eksteen.
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Along with Mr Stuart’s information, the authors consulted the National Defence Force archives and confirmed details which Mr Stuart had supplied.
The book was published earlier this year by a publishing company from George, and was introduced at the MOTH Remembrance Parade in September.
“It is history we are going to lose when people involved pass away. We are hoping through this book, we can show veterans they are not forgotten and can add historical value,” Mr Eksteen explained.
Mr Stuart never saw the printed work, as he passed away in 1997.
The Second World War Experiences of Sydney Stuart is available at Fort Amiel Museum at R50 a copy.
Anyone interested in acquiring a copy can contact Mr Eksteen on 034 328 7621.
Mr Eksteen and Mr Erwee plan to write another book.
“We are inviting people to come forward with their experiences of either World War II and the Border War. Freedom fighters are also invited to come forward, as their experiences are just as important,” Mr Eksteen concluded.
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