The SA Army Artillery Formation officially instated Brigadier-General Jongile Maso as the new officer commanding on Friday, 4 February.
The Acceptance of Command parade was held at 4 Artillery Regiment for Brig.-Gen. Maso to officially accept his new leadership position. Numerous gunners witnessed the historic parade, which signals a new chapter of leadership for the SA Army Artillery Formation. Brig.-Gen. Maso was accompanied by Colonel Tiger Johnson, Officer Commanding School of Artillery and Colonel Victor Kgasapane, Senior Staff Officer Reserves, SA Army Artillery Formation.
Video: Wouter Pienaar
In his speech, Brig.-Gen. Maso expressed his joy and the honour of leading the SA Army Artillery Foundation. He also looked back at his own days as a junior gunner through various difficult circumstances where had to persevere. He also emphasised the importance of training.
Photos: Wouter Pienaar
“Training should be at the forefront. As gunners, we serve the guns. Guns are our priority,” he stated.
He also thanked his wife, Pinkie, and four children for their unwavering support. Brig.-Gen. Maso was also awarded the Master Gunner Award in March 2017, among a notable list of achievements on his impressive CV.
Later in the day, he handed over long-service medals to members of the Artillery Foundation with 10, 20 and 30 years of service.
Lastly, a farewell ceremony to the retired gunners, Major Scheurkogel and Warrant Officer Class 2 Diedericks was held. Both had a final opportunity to fire their last shot from a GV1 gun, based on their qualification level.
Both received a 1:4 25 pounder rammer and the empty cartridges as gifts from Brig.-Gen. Maso.
