ISSN: 221-9854
JUNE 2022
Lgr Andrew Bergman introducing Ambassador Madonsela and the Third Secretary Hendricks from the South African Embassy in The Netherlands to the SS Mendi graves in Noordwijk prior to the planting of new roses at the graves of the casualties form the SS Mendi buried in the Noordwijk Cemetery on Friday 17 June 2022.
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INDEX
Page
FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
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REGIONAL NEWS
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Western Cape Region
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BRANCH NEWS
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Alexandria
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Bloemfontein
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Brakpan
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Cape Town – Rosedale
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Durban
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Port Elizabeth
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COMMEMORATIONS
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“Koevoet” Veterans Association
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Remembrance Day – The Netherlands
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VE-Day Menin Gate
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MOTH 95th Anniversary
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VE-Day – Pretoria
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Cassinga Day
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SA Freedom Day – The Netherlands
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Gunners Memorial Service
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SA Air Force/SA Air Force Association Memorial Service
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Dukes Commemoration
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CMVO Memorial Service
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Armed Forces Day Staffordshire
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OTHER STORIES
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Planting New Roses at the SS Mendi graves, Noordwijk
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Pro Patria Military Fair
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The Story Behind Red Socks Friday
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SHOOOPS – We’re Better Together
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Answers to the General Knowledge Quiz
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Answers to the Helmet Quiz
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Lgr Peter Dickens and the Stormers Rugby Team
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New Memorial for Cape Town
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Oldest WWII Veteran Celebrates 99 Years
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OBITUARIES
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FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK Welcome to another bumper edition of the Springbok. Many branches have submitted reports and stories while many of the branches were involved in numerous commemoration events. The planting of new Roses at the graves of the SS Mendi casualties that are buried in the Noordwijk Cemetery in the Netherlands. The report by Lgr Bergman has been submitted to the Editors of Navy News and Defence Web. It was also submitted to the South African Broadcasting Corporation. I sincerely hope that it will be published in one of these publications. It is certainly a feather in the cap of the Legion. Well done Andrew. Halfway through the year 2022 and for the “positive thinkers'” summer has started. I refer to the Winter Solstice that happened on 21 June. Down here in the Southern Hemisphere it is the shortest day and the longest night. If I remember correctly from my days in the Navy from 22 June the days, ie amount of sunlight, increased by around 1 minute per day. There has also been some good news when on Wednesday night the last of the COVID Regulations were scrapped. This means that no more compulsory wearing of face masks while sports stadiums and concert venues can accommodate full capacity attendance. As a result of this commemoration services no longer have to abide by the protocols. Everyone will have their way of returning to the “normal” and will continue to wear a face mask at certain venues. Many of you would have learnt about the new concept of the Council of Military Veterans Organisations (CMVO) of South Africa, the Pro-Patria Museum, which is to be established on the grounds of the Voortrekker Monument. Early indications are that exhibitions will be available during November 2022. There is very good support for the museum. Through Springbok, I will keep members informed on further progress.
REGIONAL NEWS WESTERN CAPE REGION The WC region currently comprises 2 branches, namely the Cape Town Branch and the Strand Branch. The regional chairman is Lgr Ray Nesset (CT Branch) and the deputy chairman is Lgr Peter Hall (Strand Branch). The committee includes Lgr David Holmes as secretary. At this stage, there is no treasurer, but Lgr Johan Johnson the national treasurer has been assisting both branches in this portfolio until such time that a suitable candidate can fill the post of regional branch treasurer. The facilities of the 2 branches are vastly different as is the number of members. The Strand Branch has a membership of 20 and 13 members reside at the accommodation facilities provided in Murray Rd, Strand.
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The Strand Branch facility in the Starnd
Rosedale is the Cape Town Branch facility.
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The buildings are classified as Heritage. The individual accommodation is spacious and the premises is one road from the beachfront, which is in a prime location. The branch has some challenges in the upkeep of maintenance and repair, especially with the rising costs of materials. Some members are actively involved in this aspect and keep the buildings in a satisfactory state and ensure basic maintenance is addressed. Funds will have to be raised shortly to ensure that the facilities are upgraded to continue the comfortable, safe living for its members. Since the Regional Committee was reinstated at the last national congress in October 2021, there have been 2 regional meetings hosted by the Strand Branch. There has been a good working relationship formed and hopefully, the two branches can grow and assist each other going forward. The Cape Town Branch is vastly different in terms of membership and facilities, being the largest branch in the country with a membership of over 330 and facilities that were developed from generous funding accumulated over many years. The branch is located in Rosebank, housed on the property named Rosedale. The branch administrative HQ is housed in a freestanding separate facility on the property named “Legion House”. The branch executive comprising 9 members, oversees both the branch and the Rosedale facilities. There is a permanently employed branch manager. There are approximately 120 residents living in the 2 main 5-storey buildings and cottages. The facilities cater for independent living and a daily lunch is served in the dining room. The setting is pleasant with gardens and a communal recreation room, library, coffee lounge and bar facility. The facilities are well maintained and numerous projects have been completed over the last 3 years. The branch has a permanent staff of 23 members (including the maintenance and kitchen staff), assisted by a contracted accountant working 2 days a week. There is also an active service centre on the premises, catering to the needs of both resident and non-resident members the and various Regimental Associations also make use of the branch's facilities from time to time to be part of the social ambience of the branch. The 2 branches of the WC Region of the SA Legion complement the organization and are wellpositioned to continue its role in supporting the ideals of the SA Legion.
BRANCH NEWS ALEXANDRIA The handing over of a rosette from the Enfield Branch of the British and Commonwealth Legion by Dan Hornsey to Legionnaire Basil Dukas the Chairman of the Alexandria Branch. On 6 May 2022, the Alexandria Branch held its annual Golf Day during which the branch raised a substantial amount. It is one of our major fundraising efforts for the year.
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Handing over of the Rosette to the Alexdria Branch.
Above and left scenes from the Alexandria Branch annual golf day.
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BLOEMFONTEIN The Annual General Meeting of the Bloemfontein Branch took place at Springbok Park on 30 May 2022. At the meeting, the following new office bearers were elected
Lgr W. Janse Van Rensburg – Chairman. Lgr I. Coetzer – Vice Chairman.
Lgr H. H. Steyn – Bookkeeper.
Lgr T. Lessing – Chaplain.
Additional members Lgr’s J. J. Van Der Merwe (PPFL) (HBP), G. Van Heerden, W. Stofberg, M. Van Der Merwe, H. Hough and De W Du Toit.
The following members received 20 Years Long Service Awards from the Chairman, Lgr W. Janse Van Rensburg, Lgr’s H. H. Steyn and M. Van Der Merwe. BRAKPAN The Annual General Meeting of the Brakpan Branch that was scheduled for Saturday 18 June 2022 had to be postponed due to the calling to Higher Service of Lgr Joe Esterhuizen on Monday 13 June, husband of the Secretary of the branch, Lgr Rina Esterhuizen. CAPE TOWN - ROSEDALE Social Event. The Rosedale Club was the venue on 8 May where representatives from organisations such as Cape Field Artillery, Signals’ and Gunners’ Associations gathered on a social footing to reminisce and share experiences with like-minded compatriots. The Legion’s Cape Town branch manager David Holmes elaborated on the many and varied facilities at Rosedale and suggested that this evening’s entertainment be repeated on a regular monthly basis. In exco chair Ray Nesset’s absence (due to Covid), vice-chair Peter Muirhead welcomed the guests and members of exco and invited everyone to join him and partake of the delicious snacks provided by the Rosedale catering staff. Rummage Sale. With the easing of lockdown, the Rosedale Service Centre committee organised a rummage sale, courtesy of the many donations received, and takings of the order of R17 000. These will be ploughed back into providing entertainment for its members, with a curry ‘n rice and Disco Dance pending.
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Newly elected Bloemfontein Branch Office Bearers.
Lgr H. H. Steyn receving his 20 Year Long Service Award from Lgr Willie Janse Van Rensburg, Chairman of the Blormfontein Branch.
Lgr M. Van Der Merwe receving her 20 Year Long Service Award from Lgr Willie Janse Van Rensburg, Chairman of the Blormfontein Branch.
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Left and below. Scenes from the social event at Rosedale.
Left. Rosedale rummage sale.
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DURBAN B. E. S. L. Court. Having been employed at the Durban Branch’s block of flats, B.E.S.L. Court in Umbilo Road, MZWAKE “Raymond” (who prefers to be called Ray) MWANDLA was presented with a 20-year Certificate of Appreciation at the Branch’s General Committee meeting on 10 June 2022 by Branch Chairman, Lgr Brian Doré. Congratulations, Ray – and thank you for all your hard and dedicated work for such a long time and for regularly assisting us at our annual Comrades’ Marathon refreshment tables. Comrades Marathon: Sunday, 28th August. Once again, the SA Legion Durban Branch is manning a refreshment table near the halfway mark of this amazing race, started by military veterans then known as “Comrades of the Great War”. To do so, we need volunteers to assist the runners, please. If you’re willing to help man the refreshment tables, kindly notify Lgr Brad Fourie in the office (031 205 0578) on a Tuesday or a Thursday or email him as soon as possible at admin@salegion.durban. Many thanks. PORT ELIZABETH The month of May proved to be quite busy for us in Port Elizabeth, what with the re-emergence after Covid etc. We were in attendance at three functions as well as holding our usual EXCO meeting. In addition, it was announced that a new monthly social gathering would be held for members on the 1st Wednesday of every month at our de-facto home the Maritime Club. Grey High School Trooping the Color Parade. Members assembled to watch the parade on a beautiful Winters afternoon at Grey High School. The full parade was held and very smart the Cadets looked indeed. It is always a pleasure to see a full Military Band on Parade some 60 strong, the March Past and Salute being taken by a WW2 RAF Veteran of some 97 years young. Port Elizabeth Branch A.G.M. 21 persons assembled to vote in the committee for the coming year namely: Chairman / Secretary Lgr. Terry Pattison. Vice-Chairman Lgr Noel Smith. Treasurer Lgr. Tertia vd Linde. RSM Lgr. Jan Smit. Members. Lgr. Chris Papenfus & Lgr Gordon Hagemann. The Branch Padre was unanimously elected being Lgr. The Rev. Mark Barth. 3rd Generation Parade. More than 100 Veterans gathered under the auspices of MOTH to hold our annual 3rd Generation Parade. (!st Generation Anglo Boer War & World War 1, 2nd Generation World War 2 & Korea, 3rd Generation SA “Bush War” & UN duties.) The relevant formalities were carried out and wreaths were laid on behalf of the various Veteran Organizations. Port Elizabeth Branch Chairman Lgr Terry Pattison MMM, JCD laying on behalf of the SA Legion.
COMMEMORATIONS “KOEVOET” VETERANS ASSOCIATION MEMORIAL SERVICE The Annual “Koevoet” Veterans Association Memorial Service took place at the “Koevoet” Memorial at the Voortrekker Monument on 9 April 2022. Following the religious service, the Last Post was sounded followed by the two-minute silence and Reveille. This was followed by the laying of wreaths
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Above. Ray Mwandla receives his 20 Year Long Service Award from Durban Branch Chairman, Lgr Lgr Brian Doré. Right. Lgr Terry Pattison laying a wreath on behalf of the Legion at the 3rd Generation Parade.
Above. Attendees at the 3rd Generation Parade.
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by various organisations. Lgr André Le Grange, Chairman of the Pretoria Branch, laid a wreath on behalf of the South African Legion. REMEMBRANCE DAY NETHERLANDS Every year at 8 pm on 4 May, the Netherlands commemorates civilians and soldiers who have died in the Kingdom of the Netherlands or elsewhere in the world since the outbreak of the Second World War, both in war situations and in peacekeeping missions, with two minutes of silence at 20:00. It is observed with events and ceremonies in towns and cities across the country, with much emphasis on passing on the lessons of history to the youth of today. In the afternoon, local schoolchildren placed flowers at all the Commonwealth War Graves in Noordwijk General Cemetery. During the official ceremony at Noordwijk's War Memorial, the SA Legion Europe Branch was honoured to be able to fall in with Dutch veterans, and lay a wreath, in a gesture of solidarity with the town that has looked after the graves of six South African casualties of the SS Mendi, that sank in the English Channel on Feb 21, 1917. VE-DAY WREATH LAYING – MENIN GATE BELGIUM 07 May 2022 21:30 YPRES, Belgium – On the eve of the 76th anniversary of V-E Day, at 20:00 on Saturday, May 7, 2022, the Legionnaires Andrew Bergman, Dave Wiseman, and Clint Olivier were honoured to lay a wreath on behalf of the SA Legion at the Menin Gate at Ypres as part of the Last Post ceremony. May 8 1945 marked the end of World War II in Europe, although the war would continue in the Pacific Theatre of Operations. Every evening at 20:00 sharp, ever since 1928, the solemn and stirringly beautiful Last Post ceremony has been performed under the Menin Gate at Ypres that commemorates the many thousands of British and Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in the bloody battles of the Ypres Salient during First World War. On the walls of the memorial are inscribed the names of 54,395 soldiers – including South Africans – who died in the Salient but whose bodies have never been identified or found. While WWI was billed as ‘The War to End All Wars’, we all now know it wasn’t, and 21 years later, Europe and the world would be tearing at each other’s throats again in WWII. Each year we commemorate Victory in Europe Day, also known as V-E Day, on May 8, to mark the day Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied Forces in 1945. MOTH 95TH ANNIVERSARY Cape Town. The 95th birthday of the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (MOTH) was celebrated with a formal dinner at Kelvin Grove, Cape Town, on Saturday evening 7 May 2022. Legionnaires Bernie Ashlin, Bruce Risien, Ray Nesset, Kevin Ashton and Roy Anderson attended the dinner.
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Left.. Lgr André Le Grange (jnr) with members of “Koevoet” at the “Koevoet” Veterans Association Commemoration Service.
Right. Veterans marching to Noordwijk's War Memorial, Netherlands on Remembrance Day.
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Left. Lgr Andrew Bergman laying a wreath on behalf of the Legion at the Noordwijk's War Memorial, The Netherlands on Remembrance Day.
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Right. Legionnaires Andrew Bergman, Dave Wiseman, and Clint Olivier were honoured to lay a wreath on behalf of the SA Legion at the Menin Gate at Ypres as part of the Last Post ceremony.
Left. Legion attendees at the VE-Day Wreath Laying at the Menin Gate, Ypres.
Right. Legionnaires that attended the 95th Birthday dinner of the MOTH in Cape Town.
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Pretoria. The Pretoria District of the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (MOTH) celebrated its 95th birthday with a Commemoration Service and Wreath Laying at the MOTH Evenden House in Lyttelton on Saturday 7 May 2022. Lgr André Le Grange (Snr) laid a wreath on behalf of the South African Legion. VE DAY PRETORIA On Sunday 8 May 2022, the Ukraine Embassy held a memorial service in commemoration of VE Day, at Freedom Park, Pretoria. It was a moment to reflect on those that made the supreme sacrifice during World War 2, especially during these times with Ukraine and Russia at war. A moving speech was made by the Ambassador of Ukraine, Ms Liubov Abravitova. The guests were privileged to hear a Ukrainian musician, Nadia Pryimak provided a musical interlude after which the wreaths were laid. Lgr André Le Grange, Chairman of the Pretoria Branch, laid a wreath on behalf of the South African Legion. CASSINGA DAY COMMEMORATION SERVICE The Battle of Cassinga that took place in 1978 was commemorated with a Commemoration Service at the Ditsong Museum of Military History in Johannesburg on Sunday 8 May 2022. The National President of the South African Legion, Lgr Brian Smith, laid a wreath on behalf of the Legion. SOUTH AFRICAN FREEDOM DAY – THE NETHERLANDS The SA Freedom Day reception was hosted in The Hague, this evening 11 May by the South African Ambassador, H. E. Vusi Madonsela. It was also an opportunity to meet and chat with the new SA Defence Attaché to Belgium, the Netherlands and Liaison to the EU and NATO, Rear Admiral N.S. Gogi is keen to continue to involve the SA Legion in official events in Europe. GUNNERS MEMORIAL SERVICE The Annual Gunners Memorial Service was held at the Gunners Memorial in Potchefstroom, North West Province on Sunday 15 May 2022. The service was very well supported and attended. Lgr M. Paolini laid a wreath on behalf of the South African Legion. SAAF/SAAFA MEMORIAL SERVICE On Sunday 15 May 2022, the South African Air Force (SAAF) and the South African Air Force Association (SAAFA) held their first memorial service since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic at the SAAF Memorial at Bays Hill outside Pretoria. At the service, tribute was paid to all members of the SAAF that had lost their lives, not just in conflict, but also during the pandemic. Wreaths were laid by the Chief of the SAAF, various Military Attaches and veteran organisations. National Communication and Liaison Officer, Lgr Debbie De Billot laid a wreath on behalf of the South African Legion.
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Left. Lgr André Le Grange (Snr) laying a wreath on behalf of the Legion during the MOTH 95th Birthday Service in Pretoria.
Right. Lgr André Le Grange (Jnr) laying a wreath on behalf of the Legion during the Ukraine Embassy VE Day Commemoration Service in Pretoria.
Left. Lgr Brian Smith, National President, laying a wreath at the Cassinga Day Commemoration Service.
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Right. Lgr Andrew Bergman with members of the Military Attache Staff at the Freedom Day celebrations in The Netherlands.
Left. Lgr Lgr M. Paolini laid a wreath on behalf of the Legion at the Annual Gunners Memorial Service.
Right. National Communication and Liaison Officer, Lgr Debbie De Billot laid a wreath on behalf of the Legion at the SAAF/SAAFA Memorial Service.
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DUKES COMMEMORATION The Dukes Association and the DEOR Trust (Duke of Edinburgh’s Own Rifles) combined to host a cocktail party on 20 May 2022 at the Officers’ Mess at the Castle in Cape Town. The occasion marked the 82nd Mobilisation and Reunion of the 1st South African Infantry Brigade, as well as the presentation and handover of a portrait of former Officer Commanding, and later last Honorary Colonel, of the Cape Town Rifles (Dukes), Col Les Masterson. Chairman of The Dukes Association, Alan Brashaw, reminded guests that sacrifices made on the battlefield during all wars needed to be remembered by everyone who walks in a world of freedom. Col Les Masterson presented his portrait to Captain Matthew Ndzena, the Mess President, who thanked him for his long service and dedication to the Regiment. Alan Brashaw was the MC at the function. CMVO SA MEMORIAL SERVICE The Annual Council of Military Veterans Organisations of South Africa (CMVO SA) took place at the South African Defence Force Wall of Remembrance at the Voortrekker Monument on Sunday 29 May 2022. Following the singing of several hymns by “Die Broers” there was a flypast by four Harvard aircraft. This was followed by three parachutists jumping from an Alouette III helicopter and landing on a drop zone in front of the Voortrekker Monument. The Chairman of the CMVO SA, Major General Lawrence Smith (SA Army Retired) welcomed all at the service. The religious service was conducted by Chaplain Marius Van Rooyen, Chaplain of the CMVO SA. The religious services were followed by the Call to Remembrance, Lament, Last Post, two-minute silence, Reveille and the Ode of Remembrance. Wreaths were laid by various organisations and member organisations. Legionnaire Brian Smith, National President, and Legionnaire Debra De Billot, National Communication and Liasion laid wreaths on behalf of the South African Legion. ARMED FORCES DAY UNITED KINGDOM This year Armed Forces Day took place at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire over the weekend from 25 to 26 June 2022. It comprised a short service in the amphitheatre to recognise the work of our UK Armed Forces and come together in thanking them for their hard work. Other activities included a wreath-laying, wall climbing, Segways Archery, a free-drop airbag, a Red Arrows simulator and a World War Two assault course. The event was attended by members of the United Kingdom and Europe Branch of the South African Legion. A member of the Legion laid a wreath on behalf of the Legion.
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Left. Scene from the DUKES Commemoration Dinner at Rosedale.
Right. Legionnaires that attended the Annual CMVO Memorial Service at the SADF Wall of Remembrance.
Left. Legionnaires that attended the United Kingdom Armed Force Day parade at Staffordshire.
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OTHER STORIES PLANTING NEW ROSES AT THE SS MENDI GRAVES IN NOORDWIJK, THE NETHERLANDS Five casualties of the sinking of the SS Mendi, namely, Private Abraham Leboche, Private Arosi Zendile, Private Sitebe Molide, Private Natal Kazimula and Private Sikaniso Mtolo, lie in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission section of the General Cemetery of Noordwijk, just north of The Hague on the North Sea coast of the Netherlands. Each year, on or about February 21, which now marks South African Armed Forces Day, a remembrance ceremony – which has been very low-key for the past two years due to Corona restrictions – is held at the gravesites in Noordwijk to commemorate those who perished. The managers of the immaculate cemetery have gotten to know us very well over the years. They tipped us off that some of the rose bushes planted at the graves a few years ago haven’t thrived. Effectively just behind the North Sea dunes, and despite constant care by the cemetery staff, plants need to be robust. So the SA Legion sourced some suitably hardy substitutes – the western coast of the Netherlands is wall-to-wall nurseries, so no problem there. When I told the nursery owner that these were destined for war graves, he threw in some rosemary (for remembrance) bushes to plant in-between. I mentioned it to the South African Embassy in The Hague, who host the annual 21 February South African Armed Forces Day remembrance at the gravesides, and they were also very enthusiastic to visit the cemetery after the two-year Covid hiatus. So at 11:00 on Friday June 17, H.E. South African Ambassador Vusi Madonsela and 3rd Secretary Jaymion Hendricks joined us at the “Algemene Begraafplaats” Noordwijk. Cemetery managers Ben Van Der Zalm and Piet Kraam (these guys are the best!) had wheelbarrows, fresh soil, and spades at the ready, and had identified the best spots to place the new plants. We enjoyed the shared experience of planting symbols of life, on a gloriously sunny summer’s day, in a place where we remember the Fallen. It was soon apparent that Ambassador Madonsela and Secretary Hendricks are no strangers to gardening! And as we dug and planted under the summer sun, and shared the joy of the moment, there was a reverence and gravitas about what we were doing. We were ‘leaving something worthwhile behind’ that will hopefully thrive for years to come. They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. *In the annals of South African military history, 21 February 1917 is a dark day. It marks the sinking of the troopship SS Mendi after it was rammed in the English Channel off the Isle of Wight, with the loss of 616 South African servicemen, 607 of them members of the South African Native Labour Corps: Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, Swazi, Tswana; the names on the SS Mendi Roll of Honour reflect every corner of Southern African society who embarked in Cape Town en route to support the Commonwealth war effort in northern France, where the First World War was raging. 21
Scenes from the planting of new roses at the graves of SS Mendi casualties buried in the Noordwijk Cemetery, Noordwijk, The Netherlands.
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Alas, only a fraction of the bodies of the SS Mendi casualties were ever found. Of those, 13 lie in the UK. However, another five SS Mendi casualties, namely, Private Abraham Leboche, Private Arosi Zendile, Private Sitebe Molide, Private Natal Kazimula and Private Sikaniso Mtolo, lie in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission section of the General Cemetery of Noordwijk, just north of The Hague in the Netherlands. Though neutral during the First World War, the Netherlands was not spared from hosting the casualties of a war that was fought within earshot. Photos by: Johanna Bergman-Badings PRO PATRIA MILITARY FAIR On 2 May 2022, the Pro Patria Military Fair took place at the Voortrekker Monument. Various veteran organisations participated in the event. Lgr’s Debra De Billot, National Communication and Liaison, and André Le Grange, Chairman of the Pretoria Branch manned the South African Legion stalk at the fair. THE STORY BEHIND redsockfriday. But why red socks?? One of two young friends recalled his experience at an annual remembrance ceremony at his school; “Very sombre occasions indeed – wreaths (of flowers) are lain by the veterans, a lone bugler playing ‘the Last Post’ from an upstairs window, a bomber flies over the school during the moments of silence. And although the connection to those world events gets dimmer and dimmer as the years' pass, the vets who arrived each year were the same and the faces became weirdly familiar. one, in particular, was the oldest of them all - he must have been 90 years plus, hobbling up to the epitaph, laying his wreath - every year (no doubt years before and years after...) the reason he was remembered was that he wore red socks; every single year. His story is something remarkable when we eventually found it. This is it. He and two of his best friends were preparing to be sent north to fight in WW1. They agreed that whoever made it through the conflicts - alive - a sign should always be visible to remember his lost friends. They chose red socks, and the pact was - for every day thereafter, they’d wear red socks. This man celebrated all that he held dear every day of his life. It’s impossible to quantify – brotherhood/ friendship/ human connection, but this man had it in abundance. Redsockfriday means all of that. It takes a leaf out of that gentleman’s book, it means remembering your family, your friends, the life that you are afforded to live and the energy you carry with you knowing that others are remembering those same qualities in you!” The two young friends knew straight away that red socks were what they were looking for and promised every Friday moving forward they would wear red socks to remember each other, their friendship, their passion for life and to follow their dreams. Redsockfriday has become an international social association of like-minded passionate, energetic and positive people like you and although a young organisation attracting people of all ages and persuasions.
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Left. Lgr’s Debra De Bilott and André Le Grange manned the Legion stand at the Pro Patria Military Fair.
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Because the concept upon which redsockfriday was initiated started with a military veteran, the SA Legion of Military Veterans has decided to endorse this initiative in recognition of military veterans and currently is negotiating with the association to include the profile of a red poppy on the sock, probably the only logo besides that of redsockfriday to be displayed. But Redsockfriday is not only about military veterans, it is about all and any positive energetic person who wants to have a connection with other like-minded persons. Enrol now. It is free and without any strings attached. This can be done on their website http://www.redsockfriday.com and order your socks. SHOOOPS – “WE’RE BETTER TOGETHER” The Red Sock story began when three soldiers held in a prisoner of war camp during WW2 promised to wear Red Socks to remember each other and always be “TOGETHER“, should they make it back home alive. This symbol of “TOGETHERNESS” was then brought to life again years later when two friends, John McInroy and Ian Symons, sought a way to honour and celebrate life through their friendship. Hearing the tale of the original Red Sockers, and in a crazy moment, they too decided to give each other a pair of red socks and vowed to wear them every Friday. By doing this small inconsequential thing they committed to consciously connecting, remembering and celebrating their friendship, and to always be “TOGETHER” no matter where they might physically be in the world. Today the spirit of the Red Socks has spread across the world and they are worn on Fridays in over 70 countries. The simple act of gifting them OR exchanging them and then wearing them on Fridays has brought, and continues to bring, people from all walks of life ‘TOGETHER’: -
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For many, it has become just a simple way to consciously remind each other, on one day every week, that they are loved and that they belong ‘together’. For some, wearing Red Socks on Fridays is all about keeping memories alive of dear ones who may have already passed on. For some the exchanging and wearing of Red Socks has helped inspire acts of forgiveness and redemption, helping to heal and bring back to life many scarred and broken relationships. For others, it is a powerful statement, a way of saying to others: ”I am with you, I see you, I hear you, I get strength from you, I love you…. despite our differences – social, cultural, political, language, racial, religious – we are NOT separate. Yes, we are different, but we are both also human, we are also connected, we live on common ground, we are also the SAME”. For some, wearing Red Socks together on Fridays has been an easy way to stand next to a friend, to show support and encouragement, to help them get back up on their feet, to motivate them to have the faith and courage to keep moving, especially when the journey of life gets hard.
No matter what “Together” means to you, we believe that the real MAGIC of “connecting” through pairs of Red Socks comes from the positive blessings and powerful ‘life-giving’ thoughts that they help trigger and that are being sent out across the globe throughout Fridays.
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Remember too that by becoming a Red Socker you now belong to a huge global community of people like you, also wearing Red Socks on Fridays (and usually out in nature running, cycling, surfing, skiing or doing something crazy in them!!) and who are also just trying to live a happy, active, fun-loving life. So look out for us. Oh yeah! And lastly, why do we call them ShoOops?! Well, if you didn’t know already, ShoOops is the sound that the mighty God of the universe hears every time a good thought and blessing is sent and received by someone wearing Red Socks on a Friday down here on earth. ANSWERS TO GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ 1. Brixton Ridge in Johannesburg. It was during the Rand Rebellion in 1922. 2. Five. George Gristock, John Nettleton, Gerhard Norton, Quentin Smythe, and Edwin Swales. 3. The Panther. 4. Dad’s Army. 5. Avtomat Kalashnikova. 6. None. 7. Spetsnaz. 8. Anthony Beauchamp-Proctor. 9. Government Issue. 10. Cpl Pieter Arnoldus Swanepoel, 2 SAI, HCS, 11 November 1975. 11. Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. 12. Max Schmeling. He was a Fallschirmjäger with the German Luftwaffe. 13. Rhodesian Light Infantry (RLI). 14. Alfred Lord Tennyson. 15. 5 Reconnaissance Commando. They only became 5 Reconnaissance Regiment after they moved to Phalaborwa. 16. American actress Jane Fonda. 17. Glenn Miller. 18. 116 years. 19. William Joyce. 20. The Bridge on the RiverKwai. 21. General Rudolph Hiemstra. 22. The Crimean War. 23. The American Sherman tank. They used petrol instead of diesel and were notorious for their flammability. Shermans were nicknamed “Ronsons” after a lighter with the slogan “lights every time.” 24. The Huey. 25. Fishbed. With acknowledgement to MILITARY DESPATCHES, Vol 57, March 2022.
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ANSWERS: HELMET QUIZ 1. SADF M87. Kevlar composite helmet that replaced the staaldak in the late 1980s. 2. German Stahlhelme. Replaced the traditional Pickelhaube during World War I in 1916. This is a Wehrmacht version. 3.M15 Adrian helmet. Standard French helmet during World War II. 4. Type 92 helmet. Japanese etsukabuto (steel helmet) was used during World War II. 5. Pickelhaube. Boiled leather spiked combat helmets were used by the Germans until 1916. 6. M1 helmet. Used by the Americans during World War II. and afterwards. 7. Galea. Standard helmet used by the Roman Legion. 8. Brodie helmet. Used by British and Commonwealth troops during both World Wars. 9. German Stahlhelme. Waffen SS steel helmet. Identified by the SS lighting runes. 10. SSH40. Used by the Russians during World War II. 11. US ACH. Advanced Combat Helmet used by the United States. 12. Viking helmet. No, they did not have horns. 13. Mitznefet. Combat helmet used by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF). 14. M38 Stalhelme. Used by the German Fallschirmjäger (Paratroopers) in World War II. 15. M63 helmet. The M63, better known as the staaldak, was used by the SADF until the late 1980s when it was replaced with the Kevlar M87. Courtesy MILITARY DESPATCHES: VOL 58, APR 2022 LGR PETER DICKENS AND THE STORMERS RUGBY TEAM On Friday morning, 17 June, I had the great privilege to give a short motivational speech to Stormers Rugby ahead of their big United Rugby Championship final. I was asked to come in by their head coach - John Dobson as the Stormers have chosen Sailor Malan as a role model for the team - and everyone knows that not only is Sailor my hero, but he is also the feature on our Old Tin Hat ‘Freedom Fighter’ Lager. I gave them an overview of Sailor and what he meant to me in my fight with Covid - the coolness and presence of mind, discipline and mental fortitude required for a big fight.
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Lgr Peter Dickens and the Stormers Rugby Team.
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I helped them with an abridged version of Sailor Malan’s Rules of Air Combat and applied them to rugby - keeping a ‘finger out’ staying alert, getting close and personal ‘whites of the enemy’s eyes’ bringing the fight to them and digging deep. A rule like ‘get in, hit hard, get out’ resonated very well with the players. I also spoke of fear and Sailor Malan’s squadron motto ‘I fear no man’ in any of life’s contexts. To wrap up I explained the V for Victory symbol and how Sailor used it to focus his men on the prize and keep discipline. All done, but Karen and I were in for a surprise - instead of me applauding them, they all stood up and gave me a standing ovation .. the Mayor of Cape Town who spoke to them before me didn’t even get that. I was gobsmacked, honoured and truly taken aback .. what a great bunch of guys and they earned every V in that Victory last night. We stayed for the Captain’s wrap-up on Friday - Steven Kitshoff, very impressed with him, that man knows his stuff, is likeable and easy-going. Karen and Steven went off afterwards to stuff the Stormers change room fridge with Old Tin Hat beer, so they were cold and ready for the inevitable celebration last night. We explained to them that the Lager was a reminder of their chosen mentor and a simple thank you for the well-earned thirst to be had after the final. They used to train in Hermanus and I'm happy to fly the Hermanus flag as our hometown. John wants me to come back at the beginning of next season for a full breakdown on Sailor and his rules .. and hopefully, our team will get to savour some Old Tin Hat beer directly with them. During the game last night, just near the end we were heartened to see an Old Tin Hat brochure in Dobbos management briefing notes. Our sincerest congratulations to John Dobson and the Stormers for such an epic final and equally epic win. Sailor Malan, as a Western Cape boy from Wellington, would have been suitably impressed by the sheer mental fortitude shown by the players from his home turf .. now boys, that V means more than Victory, its a mindset and a winning one at that. Karen as always did a great job and got everyone smiling - super chuffed. She also got to meet Deon Fourie - playing 100 games for Stormers and stalwart player for the French side Lyon .. she got to natter with him in French - so right up her street
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We truly look forward to the team meeting next season. As Sailor would say "Tally Ho!" and "let's cut some cake" ... and a BIG Congratulations from us, the best team, with the best coach and the certainly the best mentor in the form of Sailor Malan .. won! NEW MEMORIAL CAPE TOWN Recently the Commonwealth War Graves Commission launched the architectural design competition for a memorial that will honour more than 1 600 South Africans who served in the military labour units and for far too long have been overlooked. The competition registration officially opens today, 05 May and closes on 09 June 2022 and is open to all Professional Architects and Professional Architectural Technologists registered with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP). The new memorial will be homed in the Cape Town Company’s Gardens where current and future
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generations of South Africans will be able to visit the memorial that will add detail to the rich story of South Africa’s history. OLDEST WWII VETERAN CELEBRATES 99 YEARS By Boipelo Mere WILLIAM van Wyk, the oldest World War 2 veteran in South Africa, and last member of the World War 2 Veteran of South African Coloured Cape Corps ExServicemen's Legion of the Royal Commonwealth Wealth Ex-Serviceman League, celebrated his 99th birthday on Thursday, 9 June 2022. As usual, Van Wyk, ranked Lieutenant General, celebrated his birthday in the company of his family as well as some of his fellow surviving veterans in the Northern Cape, who went to wish him well at his small Colville home. The 99 year old is still going strong for his age. He can still walk, chase his great great grandchildren around, work in his small garden, and keeps himself busy as a handyman in the yard. He can still see regardless of losing one of his eyes during the war. He only suffers from poor hearing which, according to Van Wyk, is due to the noise of the battlefield. Van Wyk was born in Beaconsfield and started primary school at St Silvers Mission School until his parents relocated to Modder Rivier in 1933. He joined the army at the age of 18 when the Second World War broke out. He now lives with his second youngest child, Cindi, and several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. His daughter, who is one of his five surviving children, is his primary caregiver. Throughout his life, Van Wyk and his wife Marie were blessed with 13 children, 30 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren, and seven great great grandchildren. His wife died at the age of 80. He expressed that his pride and joy for reaching the age of 99 was clouded by the sadness of not being recognised by the army since his return from the war. One of his grandchildren, Barenice Katz, applauded him for the discipline that he has instilled among his family. Katz said Van Wyk never gets sick, is not on any chronic medication, and has a good memory. She said they always ensure to embrace his presence and give him the deserved recognition whenever they can as they know that not many families are as privileged as they are. "We try to honour every special moment with our elder because we never know what tomorrow holds for us. "It is such a blessing to 32
us to know that he survived Covid-19 while many of his age did not make it.“ Van Wyk proudly shared that his secret behind living for so long is respect, discipline, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. "I have never smoked or drank alcohol in my life," he gloated. He said he was very proud to have fought for his country and the world. "When I joined, the army base was still in Beaconsfield. I registered in August, and we were dispatched to the north in September. From there we continued to advance to the Middle East, travelling to Cairo, Egypt, and then to Italy to fight the enemy. Shedding a tear, he shared how his excitement was dampened by a sad experience of losing a comrade at sea en route home after the war ended. He said his troop was travelling to Kimberley after the war was over, and they were very excited, and were looking forward to returning home. "In the midst of our excitement, the ship was not far from Durban, our troop member, Willem Boss, who still looked healthy, suddenly said he was not feeling well, and headed to the sick bay to ask for tablets. "A few minutes after he went downstairs we noticed that the ship was starting to slow down, before one of the officers emerged and told us the sad news that Boss was no more. "We were told that he died on the operating table and we requested that his body be buried at home. "Apparently permission was not granted in Durban for the ship to dock with a body on it. The only solution was a burial at sea, which was devastating to us because we felt that we were already on home ground after putting our lives at risk." He described the incident as the most devastating experience that he had to go through since he joined the army. "Tears were shed when the body fell from the stretcher as it was about to be buried in the sea, which was a sign to many that the ancestors were not happy," he said. He said the army did not even delegate anyone from leadership to go to the family of the deceased to share the sad news. "Once I arrived home I was told that my mother had been cut from the army grant due to reports that I was reported lost and dead." He said he was disappointed that the army was not even prepared to take care of his family while he was fighting for his country. "We were discharged from the army in 18 April 1946. Do you know what we got as compensation? "A bicycle, and 18 pounds, and our military uniform, after fighting on the battlefield and almost being killed." He said he had to start the process of proving his existence from scratch after the war was over. Van Wyk's family expressed how disappointed they are in the army for putting their grandfather through such pain at such an old age. "Our grandfather was never given the respect and recognition that he deserved until today. Instead he is being used at every opportunity for the benefit of some. "He is still on a normal old age pension and lives in poverty, while the other military veterans, including their partners, were handsomely compensated. "He is still cramped in a small old house and uses an outside toilet. He was only put on the army’s medical scheme six years ago. His wife died while sill waiting for the compensation. "Instead he is continuously given certificates of merit. What difference is that piece of paper supposed to make in his life,“ they asked. "He gets invited to all the wreath laying ceremonies of fallen heroes at the Battle of Square Hill but only gets a taxi fare for showing his face. "It is so heartbreaking to hear him tell everyone how participating in the war has broken him. His pride of being part of a historical 33
phase of the world has turned into disappointed." (www.dfa.co.za)
- The article first appeared in the DFA
OBITUARIES BRAKPAN Lgr Joe Esterhuizen. SOWETO Lgr Simon Mashwe Mhlanga, the oldest member of the Soweto Branch, Passed to Higher Service on 29 April 2022. Lgr Mhlanga served with the South African Native Military Corps from 24 June 1941 to 22 January 1946 during World War Two.
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SOUTH AFRICAN LEGION Springbok is the Journal of the South African Legion, ISSN number 2221-9854. It is compiled by Lgr Charles Ross for the Communication and Liaison Portfolio. Body text is set in Calibri 11 and headers, Calibri 12 pt.
SOUTH AFRICAN LEGION STRUCTURE
Patron in Chief: President of the Republic of South Africa Past Presidents for Life • Lgr Chris PC de B Venter. • Lgr Jurie Van der Merwe. Honorary Life Past President • Lgr Brian Klopper. Honorary Life Vice Presidents: • Lgr Jurie van der Merwe. • Lgr Arthur Blake. • Lgr Bazil Kriel. • Lgr Rick Andriès. • Lgr Quentin Gibson.
Branches: • Alexandria • Atteridgeville • Benoni • Bloemfontein • Brakpan • Cape Town • Central Wits • Durban • East London • England • Europe • Grahamstown Regional Chairmen: • Cape: Lgr Ray Nesset. • Eastern Cape: Lgr Basil Dukas. • Free State: Lgr Deon Bester. • Gauteng: Lgr A. Le Grange (Jnr) Acting. • Kwa-Zulu Natal: Lgr Steve Leahy. • United Kingdom: Lgr Cameron Kinnear. • Europe: Lgr Andrew Bergman.
National President: Lgr Brian Smith. National V/President: Vacant. National Treasurer: Lgr Johan Johnson. National Secretary: Vacant. National Comms and Liaison: Lgr Debra De Billot. National Wellbeing and Relief: Lgr Rick Andrìes. National Ceremonial/Conduct: Lgr Peter Smit. National Fundraising: Vacant. SOUTH AFRICAN LEGION, PO Box 1936, Houghton, 2041 Tel: 010 595 4222 reception@salegion.org
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• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Kagiso-West Rand Kimberley King Williams Town Kroonstad Lower South Coast North Coast Pietermaritzburg Port Alfred Port Elizabeth Pretoria Scotland Soweto Strand
