SA Air Force Band performs for Pakistani Air Force ...af.mil.za/publications/2007/part2.pdf · SA...

19

capitol park primary schoolcapitol park primary schoolSA Air Force Band performs for Pakistani Air Force delegates

- By Amn Thabang Bapela - - Photographs by WO2 Christo Crous -

Pakistani Air Force (PAF) Wing Com-mander Arshad and Flight Lieuten-

ant Mehvish visited and accompanied the South African Air Force (SAAF) band to Capitol Park Primary School on 13 Febru-ary 2007.

Speaking to AD ASTRA after the perfor-mance, Wing Commander Arshad stated that this was their first time in South Africa, and that the reason for their visit was to interact with the Band and learn how the SAAF Band was managed. He emphasised that the SAAF musical team had a unique way of doing things, when visiting schools and playing for communities at concerts.

When asked how he felt about the school concert, he noted that the show was well presented and of high quality. He said that he enjoyed watching the children dancing and singing to the tunes. He concluded by congratulating the SAAF Band on a mar-velous show, saying that their Band would start visiting schools in Pakistan so that schools could develop rapport with the PAF Band. This was the second time the band had performed for the children and it is re-ally a privilege for the school to have this kind of visit twice. Normally the Band only

visits schools once.

The Band played several musical pieces for the children. Some of the tunes they played were Avulekile Amasango, Doo Bee Doo and YMCA, all tunes with which the learners were familiar.

Wing Commander Arshad, Maj Pienaar and Flight Lieutenant Mehvish

Wing Commander Arshad and a delegation from the Pakistani Air Force visited the SAAF Band in February 2007

ad astra - second edition 2007

2000 hours2000 hoursMajor Dave Keijer celebrating a rare milestone

- Article and photographs by Maj Jaco Steynberg, 87 Heli FS, AFB Bloemspruit -

Maj Dave Keijer flew his 2 000th hour in the Oryx helicopter during the Phase

II Navigation Phase at AFB Bloemspruit on Wednesday 21 February 2007. A busy week at 87 Heli FS nipped celebrations in the bud. After reaching that all-important milestone it was out of the Oryx and into an Agusta A109 to Durban for a Phase I Solo Function at Starlite Avaition. (Starlite Avia-tion now presents the Phase I part of the Rotary Conversion Course (RWCC).

His colleagues, however kept him still long enough for a glass of bubbly on his return. Dave has been flying the Oryx since 1997, when he completed his RWCC at 19 Squadron.

What makes the Oryx so special? “Versatil-ity,” he says, flicking his Zippo and fiddling with his pipe. “I love to operate as part of a crew; I love meeting people and interact-ing with different organisations. The Oryx has been at the forefront of SAAF-driven helicopter operations since it replaced the

Puma. It has given me the opportunity to do what I love.”

He added: “I have flown the Oryx during operations in Lesotho in 1998 and 2006, assisted with flood rescues in Tanzania in 1999 and have done three Burundi tours”.

Is there one particular mission that stands out in the 2 000 hrs that you have flown? “NVG rescue in the Drakensberg up at 8 000’ AMSL. The wind was terrible. I am re-ally proud of that particular achievement.”

After reaching a milestone such as this what other goals have you set for yourself? “To become CAF, I didn’t spend all that time at the Military Academy for nothing...”

Maj Dave Keijer reached 2 000 hours on Oryx No 1246. The rest of the crew were Capt Stephan Bull (Student) and Sgt Tal-lies Taljaard (Flight Engineer). Well done Dave, truly an achievement to be proud of!

symbol for the Director of Air Force Acquisi-tion to have on his desk”, and said to Brig Gen Van Zyl, “This document contains all the institutional knowledge that was avail-able around acquisition; if you follow it, I am certain you will succeed, for it provides a benchmark against which to work.” Brig Gen Willcock concluded by saying that it was an absolute privilege and a pleasure to hand over the task of DAFA to Brig Gen Piet van Zyl, whom he described as a man who is keen and passionate about acqui-sition. Brig Gen Willcock assured the staff at DAFA that Brig Gen Van Zyl had an ex-cellent background in acquisition, that he was a fine, outstanding and excellent offi-cer who was dedicated to the Air Force, the Department of Defence and to the nation to supply the taxpayer with the best value.

When asked which challenges he foresaw as the new Director of DAFA, Brig Gen Van Zyl said: “I look forward to the chal-lenges facing DAFA, particularly the new projects such as the A400. Although it is a challenge, it is simultaneously a wonderful opportunity because one can make an un-believable difference to the capability of the SA Air Force with the A400, as well as the Gripen and the Hawk and A109. This is an environment where you are challenged to do your best and you can quickly see the results thereof in terms of the capabilities that the Air Force is going to acquire. So the challenge is that when the equipment we acquired arrives in the Air Force, it must be supportable, functional and provide the optimal benefit.”

20

On Thursday 29 March 2007, the of-ficial change of office of Directorate

Air Force Acquisition (DAFA) took place at Armscor during a celebration where the ar-dent strategist, Brig Gen Piet van Zyl, took over from his formidable predecessor, Brig Gen Philip Willcock.

Brig Gen Willcock said in his address that it is part of the culture of transparency in DAFA to perform the change of office in public. Personnel at DAFA are a multicul-tural group from the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Military Health Service – all from di-verse populations. Brig Gen Willcock said that it is important to understand each oth-er’s cultures, and he used a little analogy for his audience to better understand aircrew: “You have heard of retail therapy: if you go to Menlyn shopping centre, on any day of the week, you will find people at Menlyn doing retail therapy. Now, if you go to a five-star hotel where the Army is booked in and you want to get them out of there, there is a classic story that if you pitch a tent outside the hotel, the Army will probably migrate to-wards the tent. Similarly, if you want to get a group of Air Force officers out of a pub, you fly past with something loud and fast and they will go out to have a look.”

He used this story to relate the essence of the Air Force culture, quoting Mr Jack Grundling, former Chief Financial Officer, as saying: “Pilots worship at the altar of technology.” These analogies were used to show where the passion of people at DAFA lies, and he said that he had been blessed

change of office change of office Directorate Air Force Acquisition

- Article and photographs by Ms Hanrie Greebe -with so many passionate people on his staff, who were all extremely passionate specialists in their field.

DAFA has broken with the Big Five: ac-cording to Brig Gen Willcock, the Big Five started off with the strategic packages: Hawk, Gripen, Augusta A109, Super Lynx, and the A400, but now, in addition, DAFA also has the Rooivalk helicopter and the upgrading of the Oryx helicopter. Convey-ing that DAFA would be going from strength to strength, Brig Gen Willcock thanked all his staff individually for their support dur-ing his term and requested them to provide his successor, Gen Van Zyl, with the same support he received from them.

Reflecting on his achievements at DAFA, Brig Gen Willcock said: “When you leave a post like this you often look back and think: what legacy am I leaving behind? There is the famous analogy that if you stick your hand in a bucket of water and pull it out to have a look at the hole that you left be-hind, you find that it is not so large - we know this and we appreciate this. In a few month’s time things would have gone into a new phase, but you will remember my time for the Phased Approach in acquisition that we had to introduce, which was new, but is now accepted internationally.”

Brig Gen Willcock displayed the symbol of the office: Acquisition of Armaments in the Department of Defence – Symbol of Office Director Air Force Acquisition, to the au-dience, and said, “I think that it is a fitting

Brig Gen Piet van Zyl signing the formal symbol of office in a public declaration of the change of office of Directorate Air Force Acquisition from his predecessor, Brig Gen Philip Willcock

Brig Gen Philip Willcock with the symbol of office: “Acquisition of Armaments in the Department of Defence – Symbol of Office Director Air Force Acquisition”


21

The SA Air Force decided to outsource basic helicopter flying training after an

impact assessment was conducted upon the phasing out of the Alouette III helicop-ter. It was surmised that the replacement new Light Utility Helicopter, the Augusta A109, is too sophisticated for the role of basic trainer. Although the Augusta A109 is suited for its operational requirements, it is easier to fly, more complex in its avion-ics and more expensive to operate than the Alouette III. This left the SA Air Force with two choices, either acquire another type of helicopter, or outsource the training, of which the latter was the most cost-effective option.

Following a tender process, Starlite Avia-tion, situated at Virginia Airport, Durban, was contracted to train future helicopter pilots for the SA Air Force. Prospective he-licopter pilots first have to qualify as fixed wing pilots on the Pilatus PC7 Mk2 at AFB Langebaanweg before they can learn the foundations of helicopter flying and basic helicopter skills. After initial orientation at 87 Helicopter Flying School at AFB Bloem-spruit, the first group commenced their eleven-week training at Starlite Aviation in July 2006. The results exceeded expecta-tions.

The SA Air Force is obtaining professional basic helicopter flying training for its pilots at much less than it would have cost if the training had been conducted in-house. Starlight Aviation uses the Robinson R22 as a training helicopter. The Robinson R22 is sensitive and requires full-time hands-on flying, which makes it a comparatively diffi-cult helicopter to fly - ideal to prepare a pilot to fly other helicopters in future.

In January this year the second group of SA Air Force pilots started their helicopter fly-ing training at Starlite Aviation. The course was developed specifically for the SA Air

helicopter flying traininghelicopter flying trainingSA Air Force on outsourcing

- Compiled by Ms Hanrie Greebe -

The SA Air Force is obtaining profes-sional basic helicopter flying training for its pilots at much less than it would have cost if the training had been con-ducted in-house

Force, adhering to strict military aviation standards. Two weeks of ground school is followed by 50 hours of Private Pilot’s Li-cence training on the Robinson R22, and then ten more hours of turbine training on the B206 Jet Ranger. After completion of basic helicopter flying training, the SA Air Force pilots will return to 87 Helicopter Fly-ing School for conversion on the Oryx heli-copter in preparation for military helicopter flying.

In celebration of the solo flights of the sec-ond group to be trained by Starlite Aviation, a ceremony was held at the company's premises. Mr Barry Duff, Chief Executive Officer of Starlite Aviation, expressed his pride in being a service provider for the SA Air Force: “I trust that our association will be a long one. From our side, we as a team will put in every effort to be successful so that the Air Force can achieve its goals. With the quality of students that we get, that is quite attainable.”

Lt Phetogo Molawa is a member of the second group to be trained by Starlite Avia-tion and she has very high ambitions. She was born in Bloemfontein, raised in Thaba Nchu and joined the SA Air Force after ma-triculating. In the short term she wants to complete her rotary conversion course and wants to do very well.

Planning to have a career in the SA Air Force, she said: “I want to become an in-structor in the future and share my skills that I have learned with up-and-coming pilots. I see myself as a successful pilot, respected for the work that I do profession-ally. I hope to become the first black female Chief of the SA Air Force.”

This ambitious woman is looking forward to being deployed in service of her coun-try and says that she knows that there are very exciting things waiting for her in the chopper line.

Brig Gen Zakes Msimang, recently ap-pointed as Director Helicopter Systems, is satisfied with the results of the training and says that the second group of students is the most representative thus far, moving towards the ideal profile for helicopter pi-lots. He appreciates the good foundation that his predecessor has laid: “I am where I am at the right time, certainly because con-ditions have been set to move forward and that makes my task so much easier.”

It is encouraging to note that the new heli-copter pilots have long-term career visions in the SA Air Force. Brig Gen Msimang said: “I want to encourage them to live to their full potential, because this SA Air Force is theirs.”

Lt Phetogo Molawa is a member of the second group of SA Air Force pilots to be trained by Starlite Aviation

The joys of landing after going solo


22 ad astra - second edition 2007

23

sport awards 2006sport awards 2006SA Air Force prestige event

- By CO Solomon Kotane - - Photos by WO2 Christo Crous -

The South African Air Force (SAAF) Sports Merit Award function of 2006

was held at a glittering ceremony at the Woodhill Golf Estate, in eastern Tshwane Metro, on 16 February 2006.

Guests, including members of the Air Force Board, led by Lt Gen Carlo Gagiano, Chair-persons of the SAAF Sports Code Head Committees and the Chairperson of the SAAF Association, Mr L. Du Plessis, were welcomed by Brig Gen S.D. Mashobane, Chairperson of the SAAF Sports Council, who acted as host and received members at the front door.

Other officials included the Physical Train-ing Sports and Recreation (PTSR) offi-

cers and clerks, sponsors and recipients. The aim of the function was to honour the achievements of all sportsmen, sports-women and sports organisers in the SAAF. The occasion was presided over by Cpln Addie Burt and the chaplain for the day was Col (Reverend) Mohapi.

Sgt Lawrence Sithole (33), a former fire-fighter in the South African Air Force (SAAF), lost his leg in a motor accident and is a living example of the triumph of the human spirit. He became the striking star at the 2006 SAAF Sports Merit Award function. He was, despite his deprivation, the only winner in the special merit award category.

After the accident, he was re-mustered to personnel. He had participated in athletics before, but, this time had to adapt to doing so with an artificial leg. Earlier, Sgt Sithole took part in the South African National dis-abled championships in Potchefstroom in the F44 category for amputees below the knee.

Special recognition, given by Maj Gen Mandla Mashobane Mangethe, was meant to reward Sgt Sithole for his achievements in javelin, where he won a silver medal as one of ten participants. Also, he received a bronze medal for discus as one of 12 other sportsmen.

Lt Col R. Loubser SAAF Col GolfMaj A.J. April AFB Overberg KickboxingMaj G. Nel SAAF College Body BuildingWO1 R.C. von Bentheim AFB Waterkloof AthleticsWO1 A.S. McDonald DOD Log Supp Fmn Pistol ShootingWO1 P.J.J Oelofse JSB Garrison RugbyWO1 J.H. Bester Air Command Pistol ShootingWO2 J. De Klerk AFB Waterkloof BadmintonFSgt F.F. van Tonder AFB Waterkloof Pistol ShootingSgt D. Bogenhagen AFB Overberg KarateSgt A. Warden 68 Air School KickboxingSgt R.P. Ahrends AFB Bloemspruit KickboxingLCpl B. Visser AFB Hoedspruit Judo

The Chief Director Force Development and Support, Maj Gen Bhembe, made pre-sentations to the International and National Achievers in the SAAF. The following members received national colours:



South Africa assisted Lesotho during their general elections by providing he-

licopters from 15 Squadron (15 Sqn) and 87 Helicopter Flying School (87 Heli FS). A BK117 and two Oryx helicopters were sent to Bird’s Nest under the control of MAOT Jumbo from 16 February to 20 February for this purpose. Bird’s Nest, from where the Lesotho Airwing operates, located in Mas-eru, was the home for the SAAF team dur-ing this period.

The task of the helicopters was to distribute ballot boxes, members of the Independent Electoral Committee (IEC) and Police to the different districts of Lesotho.

Although the SAAF crews arrived later than anticipated owing to some administrative difficulties, they were able to distribute the majority of people and equipment to the dis-tricts on Friday 16 February. On Saturday, with resources now focused on the last re-maining areas to be covered, the elections started almost on time in even the most remote areas of Lesotho. On Sunday 18 February the whole process was reversed, with personnel from the IEC and their con-solidated results returned to predetermined district headquarters.

SAAF crews, now familiar with election-related support, were impressed by the enthusiasm of the Basotho people. The relative ease with which the IEC members navigated through the rolling highlands of Lesotho to the designated polling stations was surprising. The beauty and simplicity of the Maluti Mountains were humbling.

As the Lesotho Airwing was also involved in the election support process with two MB 105 helicopters, SAAF crews had the opportunity to rub shoulders with Colonel T.V. Mohape and his team. The young Le-sotho Airwing pilots assigned to the Oryxs as navigators, translators, refueling assis-tants, carriers of ballot boxes, load-mas-ters, etc, set an example with their perse-verance throughout.

The flying was demanding with elevations of up to 9 500’ above sea level, high den-sity altitudes, heavy loads and, at times, tight landing areas, but hey, that is what assistance flying is all about. Mission suc-cessful.

lesotho electionslesotho electionsSA Air Force assistance

- Article and photographs by Maj Jaco Steynberg, 87 Heli FS, AFB Bloemspruit -

The “Le Bihan” south of Semonkong

A polling station high in the Maluti Mountains

Inside an Oryx helicopter loaded with ballot boxes and election officials

Getting the results in at the Mokhotlong District

25

defence flying clubdefence flying club- Article and photographs by Ms Hanrie Greebe -

The SA Air Force is taking proactive mea-sures to augment its pilot resources. In

2003 the SA Air Force Board decided that pilots from the integrated non-statutory forces who were not integrated as pilots be given the opportunity to obtain a Private Pi-lot Licence (PPL). On 12 December 2006, the Defence Flying Club was registered as an approved service provider to the De-partment of Defence for flying training.

Lt Col Mac Matanda from SA Air Force Headquarters is one of a number of identi-fied members with prior flying experience being integrated into the SA Air Force. When work obligations finally permitted, he applied for permission to do his PPL in 2006 and received approval from CAF to be trained as a private pilot by the Defence Flying Club. He commenced his training at the end of last year, breaking when the Defence Flying Club ceased flying for the December holidays. Nonetheless, Lt Col Matanda went solo in an astonishingly short period. In January 2007 he com-pleted the navigation exercises and on 25 January 2007 he passed his PPL test with flying colours.

His flying instructors are of the opinion that Lt Col Matanda should be absorbed into the SA Air Force as an active pilot at an opera-tional flying squadron upon his conversion to a SA Air Force type aircraft. Thereafter he can be utilised at either 41 Sqn, 44 Sqn or even 28 Sqn, depending on the require-ments of the SA Air Force.

Approval has also been obtained for the training of Lt Col Lenox Mzongwana, who is currently doing his ground school train-ing at the Defence Flying Club. The Club could now be utilised as service provider to evaluate a pilot’s ability to be utilised within the SA Air Force as an active pilot. The Defence Flying Club is rated as one of the flying training institutions in the coun-try with the highest standards. Every ten hours a student is evaluated by a different instructor. The Chief Flying Instructor en-sures that all the students adhere to Civil Aviation Safety regulations and standards. The discipline enforced by the members at the Club and the emphasis placed on qual-ity rather than quantity, further enhance the standard of flying training at the Defence Flying Club. Lt Col Roger Coetzee, Secre-tary of the SA Defence Flying Club, says: “If somebody received his or her PPL from the Defence Flying Club, you can rest assured that this person CAN fly!”

Contact the Defence Flying Club at Tel & Fax: +27 12 651 4941, or e-mail: [email protected].

Private Licence Cost Analysis: Military Members

Joining fee Once off R400.00Membership fee Annual R600.00Insurance Annual R250.00

Total R1 250.00

GrOunD SChOOL COSTCourse administration + Wings Once off R450.00Ground School Lectures Once off R1 500.00PPL + SPL Once off R670.00Radio Course Once off R450.00Ground School equipment Once off R3 178.00

Total R6 248.00

FLIGHT TrAININGCessna 150

10 Hours Dual R710.00 R7 100.0015 Hours Dual R710.00 R10 650.0015 Hours Solo R580.00 R8 700.00

Total R33 948.00Jaribu 4


Plus A R1 250.00Plus B R6 248.00

Total R33 148.00Jaribu 2


Plus A R1 250.00Plus B R6 248.00

Total R31 148.00

Lt Col roger Coetzee, Secretary of the Defence Flying Club, is enthusiastic about the high acclaim received for the club. Instruction is given on the Cessna C150, Piper Cherokee 235 and Beech-craft Sundowner, Jabiru SP (2 seater), Jabiru J430 (4 seater) and the Tiger Moth

FSgt Themba Ncume hours before go-ing on his final PPL test with the keys to a Cessna C150 two seater in his hand. FSgt ncume is a flight enigeer on the Agusta A109 at 17 Squadron and pays for his own PPL. he has dreams of fly-ing VIPs at 21 Squadron


26

siyandizasiyandizaSchools visit to Swartkop

- Article and photographs by Mr J.P. van Vuuren -

During the South African Model Jet Masters at Swartkop airfield in

Valhalla on 17 February 2007, various schools in Gauteng visited the South African Air Force Museum (SAAF Mu-seum). Students and teachers from the Jafta Mahlangu Secondary School in Mamelodi, the Mamelodi Second-ary School in Mamelodi West and the Wallmansthal High School from Sos-hanguve were received by Siyandiza members under leadership of Capt Z. Nombida.

Not only were the children exposed to aviation-related issues in and around the Museum, but the excitement of the SAAF Museum flying training pro-gramme and the superb display of model jet aircraft amazed and cap-tured the interest of these learners. A young man who called himself “Jabu the Aviator” talked with excitement about his dream to fly someday. None of the children interviewed had ever seen jet aircraft on this small scale and few could believe that these exciting “toys”, as they were referred to, could actually soar into the skies.

Siyandiza is committed to the youth of our country and, more so, to teaching young people about aviation, its his-tory and exciting career opportunities in the field thereof.

Students and teachers from the Jafta Mahlangu Secondary School in Mamelodi at Swartkop airfield in Valhalla, Pretoria

Students and teachers from the Mamelodi Secondary School in Mamelodi West at Swartkop airfield seen with Capt Z. nombida from the SA Air Force Museum who coordinated and arranged the visit for Siyandiza

Students and teachers from the Wallmansthal High School in Soshanguve at Swart-kop airfield

Siyandiza aviation awareness

“SIYANDIZA” is a Zulu word for “We Are Flying”. The Siyandiza programme was designed to inform the previously disadvantaged youth of South Africa about the aviation careers that the South African Air Force (SAAF) can offer.

The programme is run by the SAAF and it is supported by other Government Departments, including the Department of Education and the Department of Transport.

Although the success rate of the programme since its beginning is not yet documented, the Siyandiza programme can boast of young Pilots, Navigators, Engineers, Air Traffic Controllers, Mission Controllers and Apprentices that first heard about Aviation through this programme.

This programme is striving to create Aviation awareness amongst the youth of South Africa and to create a pool of Aviation informed candidates for future utilisation in the SAAF.


27

operation iron fistoperation iron fistSA Air Force and SA Police Services team up

- By CO Frans Pale - - Photographs by WO2 Christo Crous -

A month-long anti-crime operation called Operation Iron Fist conducted by the

South African Air Force (SAAF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) came to an end in January 2007.

The anti-crime operation, whose aim was to increase ground police visibility in areas such as Tshwane and Mogale City was led by 17 Squadron from Swartkop airfield in the Tshwane Metro. The SAAF personnel used the Oryx and A109 helicopters to drop members of the SAPS in selected areas to combat crime.

According to Lt Simon Baloyi, an Oryx pi-lot at 17 Squadron, the anti-crime opera-tion was a success in that different shop-ping malls were visited and arrests were made where crime was committed. “Public response to the operation was excellent. Most of the people were pleased to see the Police and Air Force members working to-gether to fight crime,” said Lt Baloyi.

PE SR A PERA AD A S T R A

aviation quotesaviation quotesno one can realize how substantial the air is, until he feels its supporting power beneath him. It inspires confi-

dence at once - Otto Lilienthal -

The airplane is just a bunch of sticks and wires and cloth, a tool for learning about the sky and about what kind of person I am, when I fly. An airplane stands for freedom, for joy, for the power to understand, and to

demonstrate that understanding. Those things aren’t destructable - Richard Bach, 'Nothing by Chance', 1963 -

The fascination of flight can’t be expressed with words. But it really lies beyond the capabilities of human endeavor. Once you’ve experienced it, you’ll never be able to forget it - Friedrich Oblessor, 127 victories WWII -

The reason birds can fly and we can’t is simply that they have perfect faith, for to have faith is to have wings - Sir James Matthew Barrie -

The desire to fly is an idea handed down to us by our ancestors who, in their grueling travels across trackless lands in prehistoric times, looked enviously on the birds soaring freely through space, at full speed, above all

obstacles, on the infinite highway of the air - Wilbur Wright -

As you pass from sunlight into darkness and back again every hour and a half, you become startingly aware how artificial are thousands of boundaries we’ve created to separate and define. And for the first time in your

life you feel in your gut the precious unity of the Earth and all the living things it supports - Russell Schweickart, astronaut, returning from Apollo 9 -


28

taking students to the testtaking students to the testTough training for SAAF learners

- By CO Pieter rabie, Pupil Pilot, Central Flying School, AFB Langebaanweg - - Photographs by members of Pupil Pilot Course 110/07 -

the military area. All the groups made it there without being captured, with one group hiding from the course’s official photographer for a few minutes because they weren’t sure if he was taking part in the search. After a debrief, with crayfish being given to the first 3 groups to arrive, we were told to find shelter and food and fend for ourselves. The rest of static survival revolved around hunting for crabs, limpets (“limpet”, we decided, was the Latin word for “chewy, tasteless, edible rubber”) and mussels, with two groups successfully catching crayfish in the rock pools. These foods were cooked and put on display as a competition. Milk and sandwiches were the reward.

The last evening there we were given a practical lesson in signal pyrotechnics. Smoke grenades and flares vividly changed the colour of the scenery.

Next on the agenda was Land Survival, which sent a shiver down most of our spines. Land Survival at Touws River started with lectures on tracking, anti-tracking and camouflage. We were then given parachute sails to construct shelters for the next 2 nights. Part of the practical training also included diplomacy and negotiation, as one rat-pack per day was shared between seven people. On the third morning we were given maps and a rendezvous point, which appeared to be just short of China, an arrival time in the late afternoon and a window of 45 minutes to report in. We had trackers, bakkies and an Alouette III chasing us the whole day. Those who were captured were subjected to various methods of interrogation, and then released some time later, mostly somewhat further away from the rendezvous point than where they had been captured. At the end of the first Land Static Survival, Escape and Evasion at Touws River day, we were given an overnight spot where there was a source of fresh water, something most groups had looked for, unsuccessfully, for the whole of the first day. The second day found us all low on energy, but still eager to get going. Our rendezvous point was even further than the previous day, but this did not matter much. The basic plan for all the groups was still the same: get going ASAP, don’t get caught, and make it to the reporting point alive, hopefully finding water somewhere along the way. The search parties were out in full force, and managed to capture a few groups early in the day. After lunchtime, most of the groups had zig-zagged their way close to the reporting point, or at least to a shady spot to wait until the right time to report. Without a cloud in the sky and very little wind, the sun beat down very hard on us. Heat exhaustion eventually


From 3 to 22 January 2007 members of Pupil Pilot Course 110/07 and Pupil Navigator

Course 59/07 attended the Survival Training Course presented by 80 Air Navigation School (80 ANS) at AFB Ysterplaat. The course covered the following:

• Theory lectures and presentations at 80 ANS, AFB Ysterplaat, as well as a practice session with life jackets and dinghies in the local swimming pool

• Parasailing at Saldanha Bay•Sea Survival, Coastal Escape and Evasion

and Static Survival at Donkergat •Land Static Survival and Escape and

Evasion at Touws River•Dunking Training at V&A Waterfront Survival

Centre

The course started with presentations at 80 ANS at AFB Ysterplaat. We were instructed on the survival priorities of Protection, Location, Water and Food, as well as the various methods to accomplish them. Over the span of 3 days we were shown the various types of survival equipment for maritime survival and, more importantly, the correct way to operate them. With the theoretical lectures behind us, we had a practice session with the life jackets and dinghies before preparing to leave warm beds and showers behind us for a few days of ‘roughing it’.

With only scraps of info from previous courses and photos on the wall at 80 ANS, we set out for Saldanha to start with parasailing training. After some initial apprehension about the safety of the whole affair, people eventually started trying to jump the queue to go next. Those with a fear of heights or water had a good opportunity to face their fears, as there was no getting around the process of rising up with the parachute and dropping down into the water when the boat pulling you stopped.

Releasing one’s helmet and survival pack required varying levels of concentration from the course members, as some were not quite comfortable with letting go of the parachute straps to use their hands elsewhere.

From Saldanha we proceeded directly to Donkergat, where we were taken out into the lagoon waters and dropped off, to float around for a while. We formed tight circles in the water, as per instruction, and were amazed to find the water in the centre of the circle warming slightly when everybody kept their neighbours pulled in tightly. But before we could get quite comfortable, we were told to break the circles and swim to the single-man dinghies which were already deployed and waiting for us, about 100 m away. We bailed water out of the dinghies, supposedly to practise, but mostly we tried to get dry and warm as fast as possible. Once everybody had had an opportunity to dry off somewhat and start to warm up, we were instructed to vacate the single-man dinghies and swim to the 10-man dinghies, where we were to spend the night. There was a flurry of activity to get the dinghies and orange overalls dry before sunset. Most dinghies accomplished this, with only one dinghy’s occupants complaining about wetness the following morning. Thick fog prevented the planned hoisting by an Oryx helicopter from taking place, so we were extracted from the water by boat later in the morning. From there we had a warm-up jog to the classroom at the Donkergat Military Base. There we were briefed on aspects of Coastal Survival, as well as the basic concepts of any survival and escape-and-evade situation.

Next on the programme was a 10 m jump off a platform into the beloved lagoon waters. Then escape and evasion commenced, with the four groups having a 15-minute head start. Rendezvous was at the other end of

Sea survival dinghies in the Donkergat lagoon

the V&A Waterfront to do our Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET). After watching a video and being presented with the theory, we headed straight to the pool area to proceed with the dunking. Two dunks per group later (4 frightened COs at a time - one dunk straight down, one dunk inverted), we were finished and headed back to Ysterplaat again, this time for debriefing and to clear out. The pupil pilots packed their bags and set off for Langebaanweg, while the pupil navigators prepared to start with their training at 80 ANS.

Overall the group was positive about the course, and cooperated well in all regards. Our thanks go to 80 ANS, 4 Special Forces Regiment and the trackers from the Task Force for a very professional and informative course. Even though we appreciate the training and understand the necessity, we nonetheless hope we will never have to use it - especially if it involves eating limpets...

29ad astra - second edition 2007

sent 3 COs to Ceres General Hospital. Two COs returned later the same day, having needed only a nutrient drip to recover. One CO stayed overnight for observation, but everybody was back on his or her feet for the last day’s exercise. The last day found the groups having to cover only a short distance, but there was the added requirement that all the group’s members had to arrive at the same time. Through luck, skill or lenience from the trackers, nobody got caught. The hard part was over, and the next exercise was to clear a helicopter landing area.

Everybody was treated to a helicopter flip (and a Super-C sweet for ‘padkos’) back to the lecture area. A boerewors-and-chicken braai was held, and then it was time to break camp and head back to Ysterplaat, civilization and warm showers.

On Monday 22 January 2007 we went to

80 Air Navigation School sea survival water circle 80 Air navigation School crayfish festival

Sea survival parasailing Touws river land survival lectures

Will they see me... Will they find me...?

Sea survival - here goes nothing Touws river land survival - okay you got me...

nikon in Klerksdorp. She has a close bond with her family. Her father, Daniel Kgampe (48), works for the Potchefstroom munici-pality. Other members of her family are her mother, Mariam Ratema (45), siblings Johanna Kgampe (27), Rebecca Kgampe (20), who is a member at 3 SAI Battalion, and Boitumelo Ratema (12). Sgt Mokoene is married to Mr Mokoena Mokoene, who works for LoveLife, a non-govermental or-ganisation dealing with HIV/AIDS issues in Vryburg, North West Province.

30

air crew lady aiming highair crew lady aiming highProudly serving 111 Squadron

- By Co Solomon Kotane - - Photograph by Ms Hanrie Greebe -

Just recently women were largely ex-cluded from many walks of life as these

were perceived to be the preserve of men, and women's place was "in the home". However, things have changed rapidly and today women have taken up their rightful place, whether in mineshafts, aviation or any other technical or scientific field.

This is certainly the case here too, on the southern tip of Africa, where a mere thirteen years ago groundbreaking talks thawed the political ice-pack. This is where Sergeant Sasa Mokoena (30) proudly serves as an air crew member on many flights around South Africa and the Southern African De-velopment Community (SADC).

She is a cabin crew member for South Af-rican Express Airways and also an active member of the Air Force Reserve (AFR). The key role of cabin crew is to preserve the safety of passengers and pilots in an aircraft. Furthermore, in emergencies, they help passengers with life jackets and inhal-ers. Generally, they simply keep you com-fortable throughout your journey.

Asked by AD ASTRA why she joined the AFR, she said: ”I wanted to expand my avi-ation knowledge and transfer skills when-ever I can.” She added that it was fulfilling to learn about the SAAF.

She has undergone training in many air-craft utilities, including Safety Emergency Procedure Training, and she is based at 21

Squadron at AFB Waterkloof. She is often a cabin crew member for flights carrying dignitaries on domestic flights.

Sgt Mokoene was born in Potchefstroom, North West Province, where she went to Lesogo Secondary School. Later, she went to Mariasdal Girls High School until 1995, when she matriculated.

She has done several Diplomas in other learning areas, including Human Resource Administration at the Vaal Triangle Tech-

Sergeant Sasa Mokoene is a cabin crew member for the South African Airways and also an active member of the South African Air Force reserve

Sgt Timothy Mavuna Shouting out commands - drill is the game and discipline is the aim

ad astra picturead astra picture"The AD ASTRA 2007 Edition 2 Picture"

Readers are welcome to send in any pho-tographs of interest that depict daily life and routine in and around the SA Air Force.

Submit your material via the Internet or via Lotus Notes to:

E-mail address

[email protected]@webmail.co.za

Lotus Notes address

Dcss/AdAstraEd/AirComd/SAAF/DOD

Contact number

+27 12 312 2317


31

women's soccerwomen's soccerRoyal clash on the sports field

- Article and photographs by Ms Hanrie Greebe -

The SA Air Force Women's Soccer Team recently faced their counterparts

from the Royal Air Force at the University of Pretoria High Performance Centre in a first-ever unofficial match. The SA Air Force team was formed two years ago and has very little match experience as opposed to the Royal Air Force team that has ten years' experience. The match served as an excellent benchmarking opportunity for the local team.

Col Lizette Potgieter, SSO PTSR, said that our women's team consists of members from different bases: “This is our first match against a team from another defence force - in fact they have never played against any other team and they came together only two days before this match to practise. This is a good opportunity for the SA Air Force Women's Soccer team to interact with other soldiers, speak to them and find out what they are doing in their defence force.”

Sport is not the main focus of the SA Air Force but, as a means to achieve fitness, sport makes a valuable contribution to-wards force preparation. Col Potgieter is of the opinion that this match would serve as motivation for our women's team to im-prove their fitness even more.

Women often do not get the same sup-port in sport as men, but a number of the SA Air Force Board attended the match in support of our team. This gesture is highly appreciated, especially since they came di-rectly to the University of Pretoria after a visit to AFB Makhado. More support came from the pavilion, where the Junior Com-mand and Staff Course 01/07 loudly sang encouraging songs to the accompaniment of a vuvusela.

Lt Col August Lekalakala, Chairperson of SA Air Force soccer, is very enthusiastic about the team. At the end of the first half of the match, the score was 1 - 1. Lt Col Lekalakala said: “I am very impressed with our ladies; they put up a good show and kept the shape at the back. I am a bit con-cerned about the mid-field because they are not supplying long balls on the far left. They are only using the right wing. Our lady Number Two is very fast and the British team quickly strategised by putting three players on her, weakening our frontline in the process.”

Countering the opposition, Number Two was commissioned towards the middle of the field in a four-four-two formation. This reshaping of the pack in the middle of the field improved the strategy of the SA Air Force team, but could not guarantee suc-cess against the fitter Royal Air Force team in the second half. The match intensified as a number of injuries on the field weakened

our drive. Despite a magnificent defence effort from our team, the Royal Air Force women won the match 3-1 at the final whis-tle.

In handing over the trophy to the winners, Maj Gen Des Barker thanked the partici-pants for the wonderful spirit they had dis-played and congratulated both teams on a very constructive game.

The SA Air Force team captain, Cpl J. Makebe, summarised the match: “In the first half we managed to contain them, but in the second half it became a whole different game. They won the game in the second half by playing long balls. They had a re-ally good game plan in the second half. We learned a lot of strategies, especially when they play the ball in the middle, when we go in, then they play it out, using their wings. So this is something we learned. Next time they come, we will make sure that we give them a big hiding!” Cpl Makebe appreci-ated the effort of her team and said: “My team really played very well, they played their best, they gave their all. Next time, we can improve on how we play, but I am very proud of them.”

Generous support was given to the SA Air Force Women's Soccer team by the very enthusiastic Officer Forming Course members 2007/01

The determination and drive of our team is evident in their passionate play. Watch these ladies, they are going to soar in the near future!


development on marion island


During the last quarter of 2006, Sgt P.E.K. van Biljon and Cpl A.G. Morta,

both from 2 Air Servicing Unit (ASU) (Detached), AFB Ysterplaat, left on board the SA Agulhas as part of a group of 45 construction workers, to assist the Department of Public Works in completing the construction of the Scientific Research Station on Marion Island. The construction continued for three months.

The research base consists of a working and living area constructed from molded steel and fiberglass panels, which can withstand the extreme weather conditions. These extreme weather conditions entail temperatures varying between –15 to 10 degrees Celsius, with winds reaching speeds of up to 180 km per hour. The wind plays a major role with regard to the chill factor.

Owing to the short time allowed for construction, caused by the weather conditions, these members worked from 7 am until 10 pm seven days a week, with only one day of rest per month, in order to complete this new research base.

Marion Island is situated approximately 2 000 km south-east of Cape Point and falls within the borders of South Africa. Communication between the island and the outside world can only take place via satellite.

Researchers have been coming to Marion Island since the 18th century. The researchers on Marion Island continuously monitor the weather. They also research the wildlife on and around the Island, which includes killer whales, penguins, elephant seals and the albatross, which can grow to a height of 1 meter. Although the new base can accommodate 90 researchers, the researchers usually come in groups of 10 to 15, and stay for up to a year. The volcano on the Island also attracts attention, although this has not erupted in a while.

2 ASU, AFB Ysterplaat, has previously rendered technical services to the Department of Public Works for maintenance and development on Marion and Gough Islands, as well as Antarctica. It is also planned that, in the future, 2 ASU Ysterplaat will assist in the training of researchers that will be deployed to the Islands and Antarctica.

SA Air Force assists Department of Public Works

- Compiled by Capt Paul Arendse, Corp Com Officer, AFB Ysterplaat -

development on marion island

- Photographs supplied by members from 2 ASu, AFB Ysterplaat -

33

new appointment to cafnew appointment to cafChief of the Air Force Liaison Officer

- By Ms Hanrie Greebe - - Photograph by WO2 Christo Crous -

Chief of the Air Force Liaison Officer at SA Air Force Headquarters is a new po-

sition that has been created owing to chang-ing needs within the Air Force Office. Col Bill De Pinho officially took up this position on 1 April 2007, although he had already taken responsibility for the position. His appoint-ment is pre-emptive in anticipation of and in preparation for structural and command and control changes that are foreseen within the SA Air Force Headquarters after April 2007. The proposed changes are in line with struc-tural transformations that are taking place within the SANDF.

Col De Pinho performs the duty of liaison between CAF, external stakeholders and the SANDF, with the main focus on internal communication. It is one of CAF’s objec-tives for 2007 to make himself more vis-ible, whether it be by video, messages in Ad Astra or the Intranet, utilising what is available to him to communicate with the rest of the Air Force. The Liaison Office will therefore serve as a quick line of communi-cation between CAF and the rest of the Air Force. External enquires that are of such a nature that they would require CAF’s at-tention directly will also be handled through this office.

He explains: “I am going to handle all me-dia relations, public relations and foreign relations and will be working together with Directorate Corporate Staff Services for execution of CAF’s activities.” As part of the proposed changes, the title of CAF will remain unchanged, but he will be Com-

mander of the SA Air Force, making him more hands-on in his directing of the Air Force. The position of Liaison Officer will streamline and lessen current workloads, yet enhance CAF’s ability to be more in touch with the Air Force and to facilitate the communication that he needs to channel into the organisation, as well as externally, whether it be to the rest of the SANDF, the general public or foreign delegates.

Current procedures in terms of media en-quiries will still be directed through Director-ate Corporate Communication at SANDF Headquarters, then directed through the of-fice of CAF Liaison Officer, who will act as nodal point. It is important to note that the position is not a duplication of the functions performed by DCSS, but that Col De Pinho will act as a go-between between CAF and the rest of the Air Force. Any matters that are of concern to the image of the Air Force will also come through this office. This is to ensure that CAF will be more aware of what is going on pertaining to matters that need to be handled with discretion. These queries will obviously then come from a higher level, be it the Chief of the SANDF, or the Minister of Defence. CAF will then be able to deal with them and not be asked difficult questions about incidents of which he has no knowledge.

Col De Pinho has experience in the for-eign relations environment and completed his Senior Command and Staff course at SAAF College in 1999, where he also served as directing staff member. He was

involved with Project Profusion, which was the development of JSCSP, which is now presented at the National War College. He served as Officer Commanding of JARIC until the end of 2004, whereafter he was involved in various structures pertaining to the SA Excellence Model (SAEM). He was the manager of the 2005 SAAF Museum Air Show and is the Manager for the Gripen Recognizance capability. In addition to the responsibilities of CAF Liaison Officer, Col De Pinho will still act as Secretary of the Air Force Board. Externally he also represents the Air Force and is appointed as a Director of the environmental NGO, “The Bateleurs – flying for the environment in Africa.”

Col Bill De Pinho has been appointed in the new position of Chief of the Air Force Liaison Officer at SA Air Force headquarters

Although fixed-wing aircraft receive all the attention of most historians, heli-

copter flight was the first flight envisioned by man. In fact, the ancient Chinese were playing with a hand-spun toy that rose up-ward when revolved rapidly, and as early as the mid-1500s the great Italian inven-tor Leonardo Da Vinci had used his fertile mind to make drawings of a machine that we now know as the helicopter.

The great breakthrough came at the end of the nineteenth century. The invention of the internal combustion engine made it pos-sible for the pioneers to develop full-sized models with an adequate power source. It was then they experienced the difficult problems of torque - the effect produced by the rotor which makes the fuselage tend to

rotate in the opposite direction as the rotor. On 13 November 1907, the French bicycle maker Paul Cornu became the first person to rise vertically in powered free flight. His helicopter used two 20-foot (6-meter) coun-ter-rotating rotors driven by a 24-hp (18-kW) Antoinette engine to cancel torque.

Some control was achieved by placing auxiliary paddle-like wings below the ro-tors, and sticks held by men on the ground stabilised the machine. Although Cornu achieved a historic first, rising about one foot (0.6 meter) and hovering for about 20 seconds, the controls were inadequate, and the craft never developed into a practi-cal helicopter. Cornu died in 1944.

vertical flightvertical flight100 years of

- By Ms Hanrie Greebe -

In 1907, the French inventor Paul Cornu made a helicopter that used two 20-foot (6-meter) counter-rotating rotors driven by a 24-hp (18-kW) Antoinette engine


a safe landing is assured, the rituals begin. Your face is covered in exhaust fumes soot, your socks are tied together and, without touching the ground, you are carried by your course mates to the solo pit, along the way enduring some “pains”. At the pit, where everyone awaits you, your face is dunked into a mud puddle and you are then tossed into the water to seal the deal.

Pilot’s Wings Course 109/07 was another step along the path of military aviation, thanks to the many flying instructors at CFS. They worked hard to get us to where we are and they continue with the training until the day that we are students no more, but proudly wear the South African Air Force’s pilot’s wings.


pilot wingspilot wingsSolo flight vs solo pit

- Article by CO Laura Ilunga, Pupil Pilot, CFS, AFB Langebaanweg - - Photographs by CO M.P. Ramoipone -

Every pilot remembers the magic of his/her first solo flight; the silence from the

back seat and how accurately he/she flew his/her first circuit. It is an unforgettable experience. It is a major milestone in your flying career, especially as you will fly your first solo in the Astra, one of the finest training aircraft in the world.” These are words printed in the Pilatus Astra Student Pilot Training Manual (SPTM), also known as the “pupe’s Bible”, and it is these words that prepare the student military aviators at Central Flying School (CFS) of Air Force Base Langebaanweg for their first solos.

Several improvements have been implemented at CFS; for example, the “solo pit” was revamped and, instead of the usual mud and many other unknowns that filled it over many years, it was repainted in the Astra’s red and white colours and clean and clear water scented with lavender flowed. Most old school aviators would grunt and protest at this severe change, but for the women of Pilot’s Wings Course 109/07, who played a major role in the pit’s transformation, it looked “fantabulously” pretty. All that remained was to wait for that special solo day.

There are two phases to the solo day: first, a solo check with an A-Cat instructor who deems you either competent or not and, if the latter does not apply, you are set free on your first solo flight. I can still remember the brief moment during which my heart jumped in my chest and the Airman’s Prayer rushed through my head, for a safe return, as I flew “through lonely ways across the sky”.

Once the gruelling 0.3 hours are done and

Over 400 delegates from Africa and abroad are expected to attend a two-

day biennial South African Joint Air De-fence Symposium (SAJADS) to be held at the Council for Scientific & Industrial Re-search (CSIR) in the Tshwane Metro from 30 to 31 May 2007.

The major aim of the Symposium is to at-tract people interested in the subject of Air Defence, with specific emphasis on defence officials, government officials, de-fence institutes, and the relevant defence industries.

SAJADS, a prestigious military event tak-

ing place every two years and organised under the auspices of the Chief Joint Op-erations of the South African National De-fence Force (SANDF), will be addressed by 22 renowned presenters from Europe, Asia, South America and the United States of America.

The 2007 Symposium, with the theme: Ef-fective, Sustainable Air Defence in South-ern Africa, is also aimed at stimulating debate on establishing an affordable and sustainable air defence capability in the southern African region by benchmarking internationally and contextualising this to the African environment.

upcoming symposiumupcoming symposiumSouth African Joint Air Defence Symposium (SAJADS)

The Symposium, which will be facilitated by Armscor, will also hold a formal func-tion on the evening of 30 May 2007, where delegates will have ample opportunity for informal discussions.

More information regarding programmes, venues, registration, fees (R2 000 non-military and R1 000 military), payment, pro-ceedings, etc, can be found on the website: http://www.sajads.co.za and contact can be made via e-mail: [email protected].

Other contact details are as follows:Mr Callie Potgieter, Telephone: +27 12 428 2714, Facsimile: +27 12 428 3429.

CO Laura Ilunga in the solo pit after her solo appearing with Capt Imelda du Toit

The pupes' badge says it all...

“

36

Cpl T.T. Malautsi from 515 Sqn at AFB Makhado is the originator of the

SANDF Code of Conduct. He was interest-ed in a career in the SANDF and decided to do something for the Defence Force before joining.

Cpl Malautsi has previous military experi-ence as a former member of APLA. In con-trast with many of his comrades, he was not integrated into the SANDF, but joined as a civilian. In June 1994 Cpl Malautsi wrote the original Code of Conduct that was slightly amended to its current form.

Cpl Malautsi deserves a medal for his valu-able contribution towards building pride and discipline in the SANDF. The SA Air Force is indeed privileged to have such a visionary amongst its ranks. Imagine how the morale of the non-commissioned offi-cers would soar if Cpl Malautsi was to re-ceive recognition at a parade where all four Arms of Service are present. Cpl Malautsi, we salute you.

the originatorthe originatorThe SANDF Code of Conduct

- By Ms Hanrie Greebe - - Photographs by Maj James du Toit -

Cpl T.T. Malautsi from 515 Sqn at AFB Makhado is the originator of the SAnDF Code of Conduct

It was a very sad day for 87 Helicopter Flying School and the whole SA Air Force

helicopter community when the news was received that Honorary Colonel Russell Tungay had passed away on 27 February 2007.

Col Tungay started his involvement with the SAAF when he qualified for his SAAF pilot wings on Harvards at Central Flying School in 1962. He then went on to serve as a Citi-zen Force pilot at 5 Sqn, AFB Durban, from 1963 to 1974. From 1968 to 1981 he took over the running of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School, the school that had been founded by his father, as the Managing Director. In 1982 be bought Dragon Peaks Holiday Resort and two years later started to build an airfield at the resort. The SAAF was invited to move their helicopter moun-tain flying training from a nearby farm to the resort airfield, which was to become known as “Dragon Peaks Air Force Base”.

Over the years the airfield facilities ex-panded substantially and included a three storey control tower, two storey accom-modation block, fuel dump, mess facilities with a large kitchen and, of course, a bar. For the last 23 years all the SAAF helicop-ters crews have learnt their mountain fly-ing skills from this facility, which they fondly

called “Dragons”. With its accommodation and fuel supply, it has also been a valu-able staging post for many rescues into the Drakensberg and Lesotho. It was very appropriate that Col Tungay was appointed as the Honorary Colonel of 87 Helicopter Flying School in 1987. With this appoint-ment, as was his nature, he went to great lengths to research the historical origins and the role and functions of honorary colonels. In the process he made contact with the royal family in the United Kingdom and wrote very useful guidelines for honor-ary colonels in the SAAF.

Col Tungay was very involved in the local community and served as a municipal coun-cillor from 1996 onwards and from 1999 to 2000 served as the Mayor of Cathkin Park TLC. Not only was he Chairperson of Club Caraville and Caraville Travel International, but was also the Managing Director of six companies and a member of the board of four tourism associations.

While Col Tungay had an extremely busy schedule, he always had the time to give wise counsel to those who needed it. He passed away at the age of 62 after a bat-tle with cancer. 87 Helicopter Flying School was busy with a training deployment at the time and attended his funeral on the family

farm on Sunday 4 March 2007. His mem-ory will live on in the contributions to his country and friendships that he has made. He leaves behind his wife, Lynn, and three sons who will continue the wonderful rela-tionship that he built up with the SAAF.

in honour of a great manin honour of a great manWe salute Russel Tungay

- By Brig Gen hugh Paine, Director Air Capability Plan, Air Force Office -

Honorary Colonel russell Tungay passed away on 27 February 2007


SA Air Force Band performs for Pakistani Air Force ...af.mil.za/publications/2007/part2.pdf · SA...

Documents

Transcript of SA Air Force Band performs for Pakistani Air Force ...af.mil.za/publications/2007/part2.pdf · SA...