CHRIS ROGERS

Chris Rogers a New Zealander served in Support Commando 1 RLI. He had received a serious back injury on ops. He was always grateful to Ian Traynor who saved his life once in a contact. He passed away in RSA in the early 1980’s.

ROB HUTCHINSON

Sgt. Rob ‘Hutch' Hutchinson was British and had served in RLI Support Commando in Recce Troop. He was a veteran of many contacts. He was tragically KIA while serving in the SADF.

 

IAN GILLESPIE

It is with great sadness we advise that at 0450 hours on Wednesday 28th of March 2007 in Perth, Giles "Starwars" Gillespie (3 CDO, 1977-79) passed away. Giles is survived by his wife Barbara, 14 year old daughter Katherine, and 11 year old son James His parents left Rhodesia for SA just before Giles was due to do his time. However he returned to Rhodesia to do his bit and actually signed up for 3 years. He was very proud of his time in the Regiment. Immediately upon hearing of Giles's death, RLIRA members John Kirkman & Dawn Losper began contacting Perth based RLI to attend the funeral. Following is an account of same: About 10 x RLI attended Giles's funeral marching alongside the Hearse as it slowly made it's way to the Chapel and inside, formed an Honour Guard as the casket was brought in. One of the chaps had brought along a full set of RLI "Greens" which, he managed to retain during his years in Zimbabwe by disassembling and carefully hiding the parts sewn inside pillow cases and other such innocuous items. The Greens were laid on a chair in the Chapel. Many photos commemorating Giles's life were placed on display, including, several of his time in the RLI of which, he was very proud. Giles was an enthusiastic supporter of the re-launched RLI Regt. Association and, was planning to attend the Sydney 2007 Anzac Day RLI Reunion. At the Sydney Reunion Pre-Anzac Day Dinner, a moving obituary was read out by John Kirkman and, Giles's ex-Troop Sergeant, Tony Coom, then immediately afterwards a formal toast was made to his memory, followed by a minutes silence. Next day, when the RLI formed up for the Anzac Day parade march through Sydney streets, a blank file was intentionally made to symbolize that Giles was, in spirit, marching with us.

 

IAN TRAYNOR

Ian ‘Gin’ Traynor BCR from England joined the RLI 10 January 1977 and served in Support Cdo RLI. Ian Traynor earned his BCR for gallantry and determination in many contacts as a very competent MAG gunner. Chris Rogers was always grateful to Ian for saving his life once in a contact. Ian Robert Traynor, 29th August 1952 / 11th February 1980.

 

A.J. COLEMAN

John Coleman joined the US Army in 1969. He served in infantry recon in Vietnam and earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. John joined the Rhodesian Army in 1976. He became a member of 3 Commando RLI. John was seriously wounded trying to rescue L/Cpl Pete Garnett KIA. John later became an instructor for the Rhodesian Army. After Rhodesia John became an editor for SOF magazine and studied at History University to become a teacher. John passed away from a fight with cancer on 4 March 2003.

 

PETE MCDONALD

Killed in a motorbike accident in Canada mid-80s.

 

TAFFY TRODDYN

Taff Troddyn, a Welshman served with 11 Troop, 3 Commando RLI from 1977 -1978. He was tragically killed in a landmine explosion in 1980.

 

JASON DAVIS

Sgt Jason Davis (727217) served in the RLI from 1974-1980 he served as a Troopie in 2Commando and later went on to be a MA2 medic. Jason passed away on Thursday 6th September 2010.

 

DAVE RIEKERT

Date of Birth: 15/08/1956 Died: 01/08/1981 Place of Birth: Bulawayo, Rhodesia Attested into the RLI: 13/05/1973 Sgt. David J Riekert BCR 726202 1956 – 1981 “Dave was the first friendship that I formed in the RLI after he gave me FN weapons drill at the Camp Hospital (I hadn’t completed basics but was needed at FF Enterprise to help in the MRU). He was a kind and principled man but there was also a wild and mischievous quality in him, which resulted in many humorous incidents in the short time that I knew him. He was a highly respected soldier and medic who earned himself his Bronze Cross of Rhodesia for gallantry at the age of nineteen. He left the Rhodesian army in mid 1980 after being offered a job in the USA as a personal medic to a multi-millionaire, only to return a year later and re-join the newly formed 1st Zimbabwe Commando Battalion. On 1st August 1981 Dave died in a shooting accident, which was reported as a Russian roulette death. RIP buddy.”

 

CARL OOSTHUIZEN

Carl Oosthuizen died in Cape Town in 1981. A regular from 14 troop, 3 Commando 1977-79, he was a fine soldier. One of the best.

 

MALCOLM NICHOLSON

Malcolm Nicholson, a Scot, died in South Africa in the early 80s, having joined the SA Recces. He served in 11 Troop, 3 Commando from 1977 – 1980.

 

BOB SMITH

Bob Smith, ex Brit Paras, served in 11 Troop, 3 Commando, as the troop corporal from 1975 - 1977. A fine soldier, though highly unconventional, he was nicknamed "Shoulders" because of his awkward gait, caused by an upper torso out of proportion with insufficient leg-power. He always wore a filthy green balaclava, festooned with guinea fowl feathers, porcupine quills and the tails of small mammals, and used this piece of headgear to clean out his curry-infested mess tins. He was transferred out of the commandos after an altercation with an officer. He died of cancer c. 1986 while working on the Arcturus Mine, outside of Harare.

 

FRANK NEAVE

Frank Neave was a lance-corporal in 11 Troop, 3 Commando from 1977-79, Ex brit Paras, he was 'recruited' by his buddy 'Shoulders' Smith. He was a fine soldier. Sadly he was killed in 1982 when he was electrocuted working on his swimming pool pump in Harare. He leaves his wife Clare and 2 children.

MARK WROTTESLEY

Corporal the Honorable Mark Wrottesley was born on 21 June 1951 at Westminster in England. His father was Major Richard Wrottesley MC (1918 - 1977) who, upon the death of his uncle, Victor Wrottesley, in 1962, became the 5th Baron Wrottesley. Until it was sold in 1963, the Wrottesley family had owned the Manor of Wrottesley Hall in Staffordshire since the 13th century. The family numbers several High Sheriffs of Staffordshire among its members, including Richard Wrottesley (died 1521) who married a descendent of King Edward III. Major Wrottesley won his Military Cross during Operation Market Garden when he led his Household Cavalry troop of armoured cars through the German lines and established contact with the Polish Parachute Brigade on the south bank of the River Rhine at Arnhem. After the war, Dick Wrottesley met the officer commanding the German tanks to whom he had given the slip. The German informed Dick's wife, Mary, that: "I went to Berlin to get a blast from Hitler, and Dick went to get a medal from the King." Mark's mother was Major Wrottesley's second wife. Joyce Marion Wallace was born in 1923 in Shanghai, the daughter of the Director-General of Burmah Oil, Dare Frederick Wallace. In Shanghai, in 1940, she married an Irish soldier, Sean Rainey, who was serving in the Seaforth Highlanders. There were two children from the marriage. Back in England in 1949 and single again, she married Dick Wrottesley, who, according to her 2006 obituary in the Daily Telegraph, is reputed to have "locked her in the lavatory until she had agreed to marry him"•. However, the marriage soon broke down with Dick telling her that he had "only married her for her tarty qualities". Later she gained a reputation on the society party circuit for flirting with every man the room and mixing with such luminaries as the Kray twins and Somerset Maugham. The marriage ended in divorce in 1953 with Mark being the only child of the marriage. Dick Wrottesley's mother and elder brother had been born in the Eastern Cape; after the war, his mother and step-father settled there. Dick followed them out to the Cape in 1952 after he had left the army. In 1955 Dick married for the third time, to Mary Ada van Echten Tudhope, by whom he had a further two sons. (Dick Wrottesley also had a surviving son in 1942 by his first wife, Roshnara Wingfield-Stafford.) In 1952, the one-year-old Mark was left behind in England and these early years are reported to have been a traumatic time for him. However, on the 20 September 1956, now five, Mark sailed from Southampton for Cape Town aboard the Athlone Castle to join his father and his step-mother. Growing up in South Africa, Mark was one of four half-brothers. The other three were schooled at Eton and Harrow and all went on to university, including the eldest, Richard, to Cambridge. However, Mark was sent to St Andrew's College, Grahamstown, where he is on the register from 1965 to 1970. School records also show that he was good at fencing and drama. Indeed his step-mother, Lady Wrottesley, states: "He could be very convincing about things because he could act well." Lee Hall also attended St Andrew's and recalls that: "He and I played for the same undistinguished hockey team in a house which was rampantly rugby-oriented, and I remember him as a game and by no means ineffective goalie - probably the most over-worked member of the team. He was always the guy yelling encouragement at the rest of us. I don't recall whether he was actually captain, but if not he should have been." Lee goes on to say: "He had no airs and graces and clowned around quite a bit, but under the clowning there was something solid and rather decent about him." Not considered 'university material', on leaving St Andrew's, Mark headed north to Rhodesia, where in 1962 Lt-Gen John Hickman recalls that Mark's father had served as TF Liaison Officer at HQ 2 Brigade. Mark attended the School of Infantry in Gwelo as an officer cadet, but withdrew before completion of the course as he wanted to be a troopie in the Rhodesian Light Infantry. In September 1971, 2 Commando was on exercise at Cleveland Range and after a strenuous run-down, Mark turned to the CSM and said in his upper class voice: "My dear sergeant-major, in future I think I shall abstain from run-downs." The CSM's response wasn't recorded but it can well be imagined. Charlie Aust, the OC of 2 Commando, remembers "Wrotters as very intelligent and a wonderful guy". His good nature made an impression on the RLI ouens, cheerfully accepting the ribbing that his accent and aristocratic background brought his way. He was immensely tall, being well over six foot; John van Stan said this made him very useful on OP duties as he could see a lot further than the other ouens at ground level. With his immense height came a pair of extremely large feet which also feature in the memories of the RLI ouens. Sandy Miller, the CSM of 2 Commando tells of one op where a pair of size 13 boots had to be dropped to Mark in a container all of their own. RSM Harry Springer remembers how on one parade he came to inspect Mark's boots and he could not get over how huge they were and he didn't "think they were particularly shiny either"•. By 1974, Mark had been promoted to lance-corporal and was undertaking new duties as 2 Commando's clerk. In 1975 Mark transferred out of the RLI and became one of the first six members of the Grey's Scouts. Neville Croxford of the Grey's Scouts Association knew him well and states he was a very good horseman. Again, his jovial good nature left an impression on those around him. By now a corporal, Mark left the Grey's Scouts and the army in 1979. Mark married Marie-Louise du Plooy in 1975 by whom he had two daughters, Caroline and Veronica. Unfortunately the marriage did not last and they divorced in 1978. He was married for a second time in 1981 to Judy Matthews. Mark is reported to have been managing the golf course at Ermelo, Eastern Transvaal when on 11 October 1986 he died at the age of thirty-five.

 

BOB SMITH

Killed in the mid 90s in a freak vehicle accident in the USA.

 

PAUL MORPUSS

Paul was born in 1952 in Worcester , England. He went to Sandhurst in about 1970, served 5 years in the British Army then joined the Rhodesian army in 1975 to 1978. Served in 1 Cdo then after being wounded (February 28 th 1976) was transferred to CDT in Inkomo Barracks as the Training Officer. After he finished in the Rhodesian Army, Paul worked for several years for an oil company, looking at potential sites around the world before settling down in Israel and worked on a kibbutz. Here he got married to a Jewish girl and had one daughter, who is now (2010) doing her national service in the army there. Paul was killed during his call up in the Israeli Army in 1992.

 

TOM SWIFT

Tom Swift was the 1st RQMS in the early 60's of RLI. Tom became a Captain in the Northern Rhodesian army and retired in 1971. Tom went into business "The Bombay Duck", a restaurant which he sold and then went into the Hotel business and owned a hotel in Salisbury (that was in about 1988. After he retired from the Northern Rhodesia army he still helped out during the troubled times by joining an organisation that used to patrol the streets in Salisbury looking for “the bad guys”. Tom is survived by his wife Wendy – Vale supplied by - John Brian Dollman.

 

FRANK GERBER Frank was born in Durban; South Africa on 25/10/1947. He joined the Rhodesian Army as a” boy soldier” circa 1964. Frank was with 1 Commando RLI and served some 10 years with the Battalion. His postings included CQMS and as Provost Sergeant. Frank left the Rhodesian Army in 1975. Frank was married to Lorna 1970-1988. Lorna now lives in Australia. Frank had 2 sons Neal and Peter now also living in Australia. Frank married a second time and had a daughter Debbie. His second wife has since died of cancer. He passed away on 20/10/1995 in Durban.

 

RONNIE PERVERSOV

Ronnie PERVERSOV, Canadian nationality, he was in Canadian Army, moved to Rhodesian Army, Support Commando 1978-80 as a "Genie du Combat" in the call sign 83A. After he was in the French Foreign Legion for 10 years. After the Legion he went to Burma, before joining the Croatian Army in 1991 to 1995. Ronnie was killed in Hercegovine in 1995. His best friend ERICH remembers Ronnie as a very nice man and very very good fighter brave and courageous. Erich

 

BILL BLAKEWAY

THE REVEREND CHARLES WILLIAM ALLEN BLAKEWAY, 3rd December 1933 – 24th November 2001 Bill Blakeway, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, pastor and padre died in Cape Town on 24th November 2001. He was born in Pretoria on 3rd December 1933. For those of you who were not able to attend his funeral, here is a description of the events. Today we saw and experienced what Bill had meant to so many. His regiment the Cape Highlanders gave him a fitting send off. The coffin was mounted on a gun carriage and the Procession of pipers, officers, veterans and ex- comrades in arms made their way down past the Durbanville Racecourse into the Church yard. The Durbanville Methodist church was packed, and the procession of Revs Quentin Smith, James Gribble and Bishop Andrew Hefkie lead the pall bearers, family members and ex- RLI comrades down the aisle where the coffin was laid covered in the flags of his regiment and the RLI flag as well as other military regalia. The service was led by the Rev Quentin Smith and the congregation sung Amazing Grace.

 

After prayer and Bible Reading Tributes were brought by Lt Col Tony Marriner MM.J.C.D from the Cape Town Highlanders and Lt Col. Pat Armstrong from the ex- Rhodesian Forces, they focused on Bill the Padre and Military man. After the congregation sang “Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord” and a Bible reading the Revs Smith, Gribble and Bishop Hefkie brought tributes to Bill, the Pastor and what he has meant to the Methodist Church and the congregations he had served. The hymn “Shall I, for fear of feeble man the Spirit's course in me restrain” was sung and the Rev Quentin Smith brought a tribute and exhortation to Bill, the Parent, Husband and Friend. He then performed the Committal and the hymn “O Thou who camest from above” was sung. After the Benediction, the bugler played the Last Post, there was a two-minute silence and the Reveille. The Cape Highlanders led funeral procession out and the pall bearers and family left the Church to the pipers playing The Lament. The coffin was then undressed and returned to the gun carriage where the Procession then left the Church and proceeded on down the road for the last time. A tea was provided at the bowling club next to the Church where the book of condolences could be signed and the family greeted and comforted. So ended the era and the life of a man we all deeply loved and respected. But for him the beginning of a new and wonderful life everlasting - ©30th November 2001 Deryn van der Tang.

TERRY VICE

1955-2002 BLUDNUTT was one hell of a guy. A simple man, Terry Vice was born in South Africa and grew up on a farm in Zambia where he grew to love and appreciate the African bush, fauna and animals. As a teenager his family moved to Rhodesia and in time Terry was called up into the Rhodesian Army to do his national service at the age of 17. Very early on it was discovered that this quiet man had an amazing inner strength and his ability to track the enemy was amazing. it was also noted that his head got sunburned quite easily as his hair was very thin (from a ringworm cure that damaged the hair roots) Hense the name BLUDNUTT. It was said his reputation went before him as a soldier. He spent 4 years in One Commando in the Rhodesian Light Infantry and two Years in the Selous Scouts. He was fluent in the Shona language and lead a stick of men right from the get-go. His final job in the army was as Tracking Instructor at Wafa Wafa on Lake Kariba. Terry and his wife emigrated to South Africa on a 3 year plan to get to Canada in August 1980. Although he had started an apprenticeship with Crasters he managed to get called up under the new Government and join in the big anti-poaching op with the RLI before leaving the new Zimbabwe. In South Africa he took up an apprenticeship as a Fitter and Turner and in his first exams he got 99%. He was on his way. Upon graduation as a tradesman he was promoted to Assistant Training Engineer. However he and Jane decided to stick to their original plan and be on their way to Canada within 3 years and left in September 1983. Terry worked as a top-of-the-line precision Machinist in Canada for many years. He also renovated a couple of houses as he enjoyed carpentry, plumbing, tiling and generally fixing up houses. In 1989-1990 the family (they had 2 boys a baby, Andrew and a toddler, Kevin) returned to South Africa for 11 months. They got jobs, bought a house in Umhlanga Rocks, and enjoyed living by the ocean for 11 months. However, they returned to Canada. In time they bought a log home on Shuswap Lake for holidays in the bush and gave the kids "African summers" barefoot, generators and mopeds as well as one of the best beaches in Canada...all at the end of a dirt road so it was, and is still quite remote. In 2002 Terry passed away at the age of 47. He spent the last few years dealing with a previously unknown genetic disease Adrenoleukodystrophy. This awful sickness took everything from him over a period of 6 years, but he still had a smile in his eyes until the end. We'll remember you Bludnutt. Oh and have a cold one for you too!! Hold onto what is good even if it is a handful of dust, Hold onto what you believe even if it is a tree which stands alone, Hold onto what you must do even if it is a long way from here Hold onto my hand even when I am gone away from you..... (An old Pueblo Indian saying) – written by Jane Vice.

 

JOHN ROWLEY

Hugh St John Rowley was born on 30 April 1934 Hugh was a Rhodesia who went to St Andrews College in Grahamstown. Here he was Head Boy Also a great Rugby player and all round sportsman. He played rugby for Rhodesia at fly half and for also for Mashonaland. He was known as the “Galloping Major” when he played for Rhodesian Light Infantry. Hugh served as 2I/C of 1 Commando in 1964 and later as OC 3 Cdo, during Operation Cauldron. Some of Hugh’s history in the RLI is covered in the book “The Saints”. Hugh Rowley was posted as the CO of 10RR as regular Lt Col. Later he served as Military Attaché in Pretoria. Some time was spent also working with Lt. Col. Ron Reid Daly. Hugh’s father served with the BSAP. Hugh passed away on 22nd May 2003 in the Rosebank Clinic, South Africa after a protracted struggle with cancer.

 

NOEL BATTY

1920 Cpl Noel Batty (Known as Yorky) C Company No 1 Training Unit/1 R.L.I. left the Rhodesian Army at the breakup of the Federation. His great friend at the time was Derek Hughes who later became a Caterer. He died peacefully at his home in Ilkley West Yorkshire in January 2006. I knew him personally, although slight of build he had a tremendous personality and was respected and well-liked by all who knew him. He thought the time he had spent with the Battalion was the best of his Army career. Prior to this he had served with both the British and Australian Armies from the end of WW2. Regards Bugs Moran (Selous Scouts)

 

VANCIE MEYERS

25th June 2008 Sadly Vancie Meyers passed away this afternoon 25th June 2008, after a long battle with prostrate cancer. Vance late of the RLI and Selous Scouts and numerous other hard knock schools will be very sadly missed by all. A man’s man who lived life to the full - God bless him. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. Kindest regards, Fraser Brown

 

CLIFF VAN RENSBURG

It is with deep sadness that we have learned of the passing of Colin Bruchhausen, in Alberton on Sunday 25 November 2007. A South African, Colin joined Support Commando in 1976 before transferring to 14 Troop 3 Commando in 1977 where he served until 1979. He died of a heart attack induced by a lung disease that he’d contracted in his work. He met his wife in Salisbury when he was 17, married at 20, and was still happily married when he died. He will be remembered as an MAG gunner par excellence and equally for his gentle, laid-back humour. RIP china. Chris Cocks.

 

CLIFF VAN RENSBURG

Cpl Batty N, C Company number one Training Unit then 1 R.L.I Tpr Lorne Knox 3 commando - 2006 Tony Pugh Roberts Ian Gillespie (Giles)12 Tp, 3 Cdo. 1977/78

 

ROD ELLISON

1947 - 2007 It is my very sad duty to report that on Tuesday 11th December in Wagga-Wagga (NSW), RLIRA Australasia Branch member Rod Ellison suffered a massive heart attack, and without regaining consciousness, slipped away early this morning (Saturday 15/12/2007) to join the band of our other “fallen” Saints. Our deepest sympathy goes to Rod’s wife Jayne, and their adult children, Lorien & Kyle Being a born & bred Aussie, Rod was one of RLI’s “Foreigners” who, believing Rhodesia was being unjustly dealt with by the majority of the world, went to Rhodesia to aid in a “just cause”. Rod had distinguished service with RLI, having seen the majority of his service in 1 Commando where his outstanding combat leadership abilities were such that he steadily rose through the ranks and ultimately, became a commissioned officer. In the closing days of 1980, Rod was appointed OC of Support Commando. As the ranking member present, earlier this year Rod led the RLI Contingent in it’s proud march through the streets of Sydney at the Branch’s inaugural Anzac Day reunion. I had the opportunity of talking at length to Rod a number of occasions after the 2007 reunion during which, Rod strongly expressed how proud he felt that (via the reunions) the memory of what RLI once was, and what the unit achieved, was not simply being allowed to fade away into oblivion and thus, was planning to attend the Brisbane 2008 Anzac Day gathering. I will miss you Rod, you were a good soldier and friend - Humbala Garshly old son. Rod’s funeral will be held in Wagga Wagga at a time & date yet to be set, but, probably early next week - further information will be emailed as details come to hand. For those RLI who may be able to attend Rod's funeral, Jacket/Tie and RLI Beret would be appropriate wear. Regards, Tony Young They shall not grow 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,

 

CHARLIE GREENWOOD

Charlie Greenwood (1 Cdo & medic) in a car accident. My sincere condolences go out to his loved ones. To all those who served with Corporal Charly Greenwood of One Commando - 1977 to 1980. I don't know if you have received the bad news but if not, I am sorry to be the one to let you know that Charly Greenwood was killed in a motor car accident on the morning of 15th December 2007. I don't have too much detail but it appears that he fell asleep at the wheel on Harare Drive, not far from his home. He was on his own and no other car was involved. I’m really sorry and here’s to a really good buddy.

 

GEORGE WALSH

GEORGE WALSH’S FAREWELL Bearsted, Kent 12th December 2007 Grateful thanks to Vic Walker for sending us this account of George Walsh's Cremation service. Hi All The service, which was simple but moving, was conducted by the Reverend van Straaten (was a teacher at Michaelhouse, Natal). Other ex-Rhodesian Army members who attended were Dave Heppenstall, Mike Shute, Jimmy Ley and his wife Jane, Jock Hutton and his wife Doreen. The eulogy, which was given by Dave Heppenstall, was quite outstanding and covered George's life in the Irish Guards, the Federal Army, and the Rhodesian Army (including the short time he spent in the Zimbabwe National Army) from which he retired with the rank of Lt Col. After the service all present attended a short wake in the Royal British Legion Village where Merle has a flat. Merle was accompanied by one of her daughters, Margaret (the second daughter, Sandra, is in Zimbabwe and could not make it). George and Merle's son, Alan, was able to fly in from Malawi, but has to return fairly soon. At this time Merle is holding up very well and all of the family's friends are asked to remember them in their prayers during this traumatic time, and particularly over the Christmas period. Regards Vic

 

IAN DOUGLAS SMITH

1919-2007 Although always staunchly true to his beliefs, Ian Smith attracted controversy and more than his fair share of misunderstanding. His son, Robert Smith said on Wednesday that he expected as much vitriol from the press as praise for his late father. And, rightly, he refused to say more, arguing whatever he said would be misconstrued. Nevertheless, barely had he spoken than the headlines, commentators and obituaries were dismissing his father as a bigotted, unthinking racist. This fate was shared by his predecessors as prime minister – Lord Malvern, Sir Roy Welensky, Sir Garfield Todd, Sir Edgar Whitehead and Winston Field - most of whom disliked him and some of whom despised him. All were accused at some stage as being racist. They and Ian Smith were, of course, victims of history, caught in a straitjacket. They had inherited a country freshly implanted into a late iron-age culture in the middle of Africa. They all sought in their varying ways to bring to Rhodesia the benefits of the Western concept of democracy, unknown to the people they were living amongst. They all intended to foster non-racial political evolution which would achieve rule by the majority in the fullness of time. None were able to do so because the British and the West, mired in the Cold War and economic consequences of the Second World War, wanted to appease the African nationalists and rid themselves of their imperial responsibilities. The result is the current state of Africa. Need I say more? Although I knew Ian Smith for 27 years I will not pretend to understand his essential being. He was immensely generous and helpful to me in many ways with my project but he was a private man. We discussed the issues which I was studying but, although both Carole and I worked on his book, The Great Betrayal. I was not a confidant, nor did I presume to be. He paid me the great compliment of giving me sole access to his official papers on which I have based my two books 'So Far and No Further!' (his words on declaring UDI) and my about-tobe published A Matter of Weeks rather than Months (Harold Wilson's boast when imposing sanctions), and a third book, as yet untitled and half-written. I was not, however, offered access to his private papers or his diaries on which he based The Great Betrayal. And I respect his decision. Thus I would find it difficult to write a biography because I lack the crucial insight. What I can declare is that Ian Smith was one of great men who left an indelible footprint on the march of time. His detractors only betray their ignorance and misunderstanding of the man and the world he was born into. He came from a family and a society which understood that duty was part of your being. He was at heart a farmer and, like his father, Jock Smith, before him, a great cattleman. Indeed, he was happiest walking among his cattle. A quiet, shy man, he had qualities which his detractors never recognised. His leadership was unspoken but led him to captain sports teams at school and university, to command his RAF flight and to become the Chairman of the Students Representative Council of Rhodes University before being asked to represent Selukwe in the Southern Rhodesian Parliament. Professor Hobart Houghton, the distinguished Professor of Economics, urged him to apply for a Rhodes Scholarship and go on to Oxford University to further his studies but Ian Smith wanted to go farming. All he ever yearned for was to be on his beloved Farm Gwenora with his cattle. A measure of the man was that he retained life-long friendships of men such as Jack Howman, Sam Whaley, Ken Mackenzie, P.K. van der Byl and so many more. He came from what my son, Andrew, calls the ‘Warrior Generation’. He faced the terrors of war and suffered grievously. A lesser man would have taken the offer to return to Rhodesia as an instructor after his Hurricane crash in 1943. Instead he returned to 237 Squadron and fought on. His resourcefulness came to the fore when he fought with the partisans in northern Italy after being shot down in 1944. His leadership and his tough response to any challenge came when he led a party of escapees over the Maritime Alps in his bare feet in the hard winter of 1944-1945. Again he did not go home but went back to fight in Northern Germany. His war left him with pain for the rest of his life and that impassive face which misled so many of his detractors. If I cannot share with you any particular personal insights into the man, I can debunk many of the accusations laid against him. For example, he did not declare war on African nationalism. Quite the reverse. In 1962, during the premiership of Whitehead, ZAPU chose the 'Armed Struggle' in accordance with the Marxist prescription for the acquisition of power. Arms caches and armed men began to be found and picked up. Winston Field and Ian Smith inherited this and all Governments have to act or abdicate. He was not, as depicted by his enemies, and Harold Wilson and the British press in particular, a weak, indecisive puppet of his right wing. He was his own man. He was not an appeaser like Macmillan, Butler, Sandys, Wilson, Carrington and the host of others who presided over the decline of Britain's world status. He was also not overawed by any of these men. The right wing did not force his hand on UDI. The British did this by refusing to negotiate with him and then, at the last minute, offering him impossible conditions including the loss of powers gained in 1923. The right wing within the Cabinet did not persuade him to turn down the Tiger deal as Harold Wilson and his ilk liked to believe. He arrived on the deck of HMS Tiger warning Wilson that he could not accept the British prescription for Rhodesia’s return to legality – rule by a Governor and Whitehall for an albeit short period. He knew it would be fatal for Rhodesia and Lord Soames would prove him right in early 1980. As Cabinets work by consensus, he agreed to table the Tiger package before his, but he warned Wilson again that he could not accept the method of the return to legality. We men are all rightly influenced by our wives but he was not a puppet of Janet whatever his critics liked to believe. Without doubt he valued her opinion but he was his own man. He was not the devious tricky liar his opponents liked to depict him as. He was obstinate and he refused to fall for the guile of the British, unlike Bishop Muzorewa. Indeed, Ian Smith's ability to out-manoeuvre and outlast his opponents, led Sir Roy Welensky to tell me one day in 1977 in his office in Old Lonrho Building that he wished he could draw. If he could draw, he said, he would draw a cartoon of Ian Smith as the Great Chief Sitting Bull seated outside his tepee next to his totem pole on which were hung all the scalps of those who had negotiated with him and failed. They included Lord Butler, Duncan Sandys, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, Arthur Bottomley, Lord Gardiner, Harold Wilson, Michael Stewart, George Thomas, George Thompson, B.J. Vorster, Hilgard Muller, Henry Kissinger, David Owen, Andrew Young and more. Ian Smith is accused of being a racist by almost all the obituaries you will read. Yet he abhorred apartheid and the Afrikaner Nationalists. I had many discussions with him on this subject. He expressed admiration for many of the Africans we discussed including Nelson Mandela. It is true that he called Mugabe a Marxist gangster but was he wrong? I would say that he was realist and from the outset recognised that it would be impossible and indeed suicidal to settle with Mugabe and his ilk. Ian Smith made the mistake of saying in public 'Never in a thousand years' and that mistake still reverberates. Nevertheless, he warned the British from the outset that a premature transfer to majority rule would be disastrous but they disagreed, saying he was blinded by his own bigotry. He was also not the barely literate Rhodesian Front farmer many liked to think he was. He surprised Bill Deedes by speaking Italian. He could surprise one by quoting whole passages of Shakespeare (another legacy of his time in Italy). When Carole, Andrew and I saw him in January of this year, one of us (I fear it was me) mentioned something about being true to oneself. We were treated to the whole second half of the passage from Hamlet ‘This above all: to thine own self be true. And it must follow, as night the day. Thou canst not then be false to any man.’ He was to himself.

 

TERRY TANGNEY

Cpl. Terry Tagney was an Australian who had served in the Royal Australian Regiment. He served in RLI Support Commando and was a veteran of many contacts. During quiet times he was THE Support Commando prankster often an outspoken character. Several Rhodesian Air Force aircraft had mysteriously sported a black kangaroo spray painted on their fuselage. Rumor has it Terry was nearby with a stencil and a spray can of black paint! Terry finished his Army career in the Army Photographic Section mastering his photography skills for a possible career as a war correspondent. Terry died in 2007.

 

ALAN HAWKS ALAN HAWKS passed away in Harare on Sunday 8 June 2008, after a long and painful illness.

 

 

JON STOKES

JON STOKES passed away in the early hours of Monday morning, 9 June 2008, in South Africa Dear Iona, I was very sad to have received the news of Jon, my heart grieves for you. It is always sad when someone like Jon moves on. He brought so much fun and laughter to so many of us during our military careers. He took his handicap in his stride and always put on a brave face. He was a brilliant soldier, a natural leader and an inspiration to all around him. He had a sense of humor that was infectious, he knew how to work hard and play hard. I will always remember his happy grin when he was in full flight. Unfortunately I have not seen Jon for over 25 years, but my memories will live on forever. He would not have been the man he was without your support and you been by his side over the years gone by. God bless you. Fred Watts

 

STU WERNER

Tpr. S. W. 'Stu' Werner, British was once a member of the Royal Devonshire Regiment. He became a member of 14 Troop 3 Commando in 1976. He was a veteran of many operational deployments. In 1978 Stu severely impact fractured his ankle on a night time parachute training jump. After recuperating no longer able to do commando work he joined the Rhodesian Engineers. In 1979 Stu Werner lost the bottom of his good leg from a landmine while doing a follow up of terrorists through the border minefield. Stu Werner was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident in the 1980's.

 

NEVILLE HARDING

L/Cpl. Neville A. Harding was a well liked and respected NCO with 3 Commando. On March 1978 near Shabani he was seriously wounded with the loss of his left eye in a fierce Fireforce contact with a gang of 16 hardcore terrorists where 4 Indep soldiers were KIA. Cpl. George Galloway earned his BCR in the same contact. Neville died in a drowning accident in the 1980’s.

 

GEORGE SHARP

Trooper George Sharp National Serviceman Intake 167 Mortar Troop, Support Commando Appears on page 423 of “The Saints” He tragically died after falling off his farm building roof in the Beatrice area some time in 2003.

 

COLIN KENT

Trooper Colin Kent 3 Commando National Serviceman Intake 163 Appears on page 433 of “The Saints” on Op Tepid He tragically died in a car accident on the Vereeniging Road during 1999.

 

GARETH RICHARD JONES

Intake 165 and 1 Commando. Died in Durban in 1987 of a brain tumor. A good friend and a loyal Trooper"

 

JOHN PAUL SCHOTS

Dear Member / Friend John Paul Schots Born Blantrye Malawi 5th November 1953 1st Battalion 2 Commando RLI – Died Richards Bay South Africa 19th November 2002 John Paul (JP) had a tough childhood. Despite two bouts of rheumatic fever as a child, he signed up for 5 years military stint with the Rhodesian Light Infantry. John Paul (JP) had a tough childhood. Despite two bouts of rheumatic fever as a child, he signed up for 5 years military stint with the Rhodesian Light Infantry. Prince Edward School and JP didn't really get on together, probably because he was dyslectic. He was a wonderful mimic and had a keen ear for inverting a phrase. His Afrikaans didn't get much beyond. "Hoya morra Manure; Whose done dis shit." which very vaguely with the accent he gave it sounded like an attempt to say Good Morning Sir, How are things with you. His teacher found his efforts insufferable, but his class mates found it most amusing. Glad to leave the educational system behind, he found the camaraderie and action life in the army suited him well. When he finished his initial five year stint he signed on for an extra 12 months of service in the Rhodesian Bush War now known as the second Chimurenga of Zimbabwe during which time he saw the war degenerating into rounds of increasing brutality from all three parties involved; the Rhodesian army, ZANU and ZAPU. There was pressure on him to sign on again but having won the Bronze medal for Bravery and lost good friends he finally felt he had done his bit. He left the country to travel the world with Barbara a childhood sweetheart. He lived life to the full and had a great time. Barbara however gave up on him and stayed in Israel while he went back to Zimbabwe where he met and married Janette who then had a babe in arms. Janette and John and Heath her son, moved to South Africa, however their union didn't last. Sadly although John had from the time they met, till they parted, treated her child as his own, she would not allow contact to continue with the child when their relationship broke down. They had no children together. He died without any known issue. John's trade interests in South Africa, where he and his partners set up an ice production facility for supplying the townships, ran into problems when his business was boycotted as part of the anti-apartheid struggles. He returned to Zimbabwe followed by his then girlfriend Jill. John's old army buddy Paul Holt gave Jill a job administering the sale of motor vehicles for him and John took over the farm. John married Jill in 1991. Her mother Sheila visited 30-31 May-June 1991 and presented an observation list of birds on the farm. This has now been made into a kids illustrated guide of birds of the area. Sheila was a member of the Witwatersrand bird Club at the time, now she has returned to Ireland. John was dropped behind enemy lines on a parachute that 'roman candled'; that is it didn't open properly and he plummeted to earth unsupported. Once Mother had recovered from seeing the Army Chaplin approach along the driveway to give her that information she was allowed to phone JP in hospital. "Are you alright?" she asked "Who the hell has been worrying you, I'm fine." John never liked people making a fuss of him and he suffered his injuries stoically. "Can you wiggle your toes" Mother butted in "I can wiggle my toes Mum but I can't wiggle my bum." His helmet broke on impact but his head was undamaged, just his pelvis was cracked, a real miracle. John fell into thick Jesse bush which broke his fall, his helmet, and his pelvis, but saved his life. His Aunty Jessie said it was the first mention of Jesse she had been really glad of. Till then she had never really liked her given name. There are other well documented cases of people surviving a fall from an airplane without a parachute. None-the-less we felt especially well blessed. He had been carried by angels my aunt said. On a separate occasion John was bitten by a poisonous snake and on yet another he was shot through the chest. He was a sensitive soul and very good hearted. In his last years he became very ill. Even then there would be periods when his old, 'golden hearted self' came to the fore, as Jill explained it. In the end he was sick with cancer of the liver, doubtlessly exacerbated by heavy drinking and was unwilling to seek either curative or later palliative care. He had a damaged heart from early youth and probably should never have gone into military service. However it was not alcohol alone that created the symptoms he exhibited. We were so concerned about our young men being killed that we had scant regard for the mental turmoil that was created by asking our young men to kill. So many of our ex servicemen took to drink after the experience, attempting to forget. They need a lot more psychological support. It would have been a good start for him to know that an internet memorial would be raised to those guys. Then it has to be admitted that John exhibited bizarre behaviour that points beyond drunkenness or alcoholism, to an aflatoxin like affliction. Aflatoxin is a poison found in mouldy corn, peanuts, bread, fruit and wheat grain. This is an important contributory cause of primary cancer of the liver particularly in Africa and Asia. An aflatoxin episode can start off with the sufferer saying mean things, expressing unusual, irrational thoughts, feeling emotionless or unreal, before even having one drink. Take note if you recognise these systems. Victims have sudden unexplained mood swings, even unexpected crying spells, or fits of bad temper, then, when the episode passes they will be unable to remember any of these things. Very similar to drunkenness except the loss of memory is permanent, and they don't need a drink to bring it on. They have no creeping doubt about memory loss that the drunk has the morning after. Often after exploding with an aflatoxin fuelled furry John would, as is typical with this type of poisoning, remember nothing of the incident, and couldn't even imagine why we were behaving so dreadfully in accusing him of such awful behaviour. Aflatoxin moulds have been observed to induce or lead to heart attacks. They produce a long lasting and debilitating condition. While exposure is difficult to evade entirely, it is really important to highlight the dangers in eating even only slightly mouldy products. If you have the kind of character that hates waste and you would rather toast an old piece of bread than compost it, or you are inclined to cut off the mouldy corner of your bread and eat the rest, please please don't do it. The contamination acts slowly, so it's difficult to immediately associate cause with effect. Nuts are the worst offenders and only a small amount of mould can start this terrible suffering. Aflatoxin is also immunosuppressive, and particularly in Africa is likely to prove long term to be far more devastating than AIDS and may even be as devastating as malaria. This poison boils up a fury in people who eat it. A cheap test to help separate mouldy nuts and other dangerous foods from that which can be rescued without unnecessary waste, could help alleviate some poverty and a lot of suffering in Africa. John Paul went down to Richards Bay to take a rest from the Zimbabwe 'situation.' After which he was going to try and sort some insurance payments. Mitch who he was staying with called us early Monday morning after a wild weekend party to say. "John Paul has had a heart attack and we've taken him to hospital." "What hospital" I asked "and do you need any money for the treatment." "Send all the money you can, he's got in without payment as it's an emergency, but it'll cost plenty soon." was his reply. He phoned next morning to say he'd passed away. That was on 19th November 2002. He left an estranged wife who, unhappy with the war-vet take over of parts of the farm and unable to handle JP's bizarre behaviour and unable to persuade him to be treated for his heart problems, had left him July before. John or as his mother knew him JP also known as Johnny o sometimes mis-pronounced 'Shodtzy' served in 2 Commando RLI. We have inscribed on a plaque in his memory the ancient Malawian saying which is translated as:- "Though we cannot find where you have gone, Whenever we hear the branch of a tree crack, We will remember you have been here in our hearts, You have left happiness and sorrow behind" Kindly supplied by John’s sister Erica Woods, from the book I did not shoot Mugabe – Why that's the wrong way to tickle Mary by ETY Schots.

 

KLAUS DIETER HÖPFNER

Dear Member / Friend Dieter Höpfner was born in Brandenburg, Germany on 6 February 1947 and served as a trooper in 6 Troop, 2 Commando from 1973–76. Dieter passed away in 2008.

 

JOSH MCGRATH

Dear Member / Friend Sad new's. Trp Josh McGrath 14 Troop, 3 Commando, 1977-79 died on 7th Feb 2008 after a long illness. He leaves behind a son and daughter. Josh & Danielle. If you knew Josh or served in the Rhodesian forces and would like to leave a message for Josh and Danielle please go to www.solimine.com select obituaries click on Josh McGrath you can then read the obituary written by his family and see a recent picture of him. Click on his guestbook and leave your message. Josh lived up to his own high moral standards all through his life. I was lucky enough to go over to his house on 3 or 4 occasions just before his illness. He met me at Swampscot station the first time in over 25 years his first words were "Hey Elvis" (my hair before the barber of Cranbourne got hold of me) "you can cut that Limey hand shaking sh*t out and give me a hug man" We got to his house about 3pm and sat at his kitchen table just drinking beers,talking and reliving Rhodesia untill well into the next morning, it was just like 2 brother's meeting again his house was my house just like that. Josh was a great man respected by all who knew him (so long as you did not have an AK47 in your hand's) I salute you Josh Your friend and ex-troopie Jim. Dear Chaps, Below you will find a most recent picture of Josh McGrath and James Eagle. The picture was taken by a relatively recent visit by James Eagle to the states. The picture clearly demonstrates the special bond that RLI men share. I have little doubt that this was probably one of the greatest days for both Josh, and James in recent years. Just thought that you fine men of the RLI, could appreciate the bond that these two saints share/shared. According to Josh and James these two sat at the kitchen table and talked from one day into the next. Family members and neighbors came and went, the hours flew by and seemed like minutes but nothing could keep these two from enjoying each others company. No one will ever realize the bond that these two shared unless of course you're a Rhodesian light infantry man yourself. A celebration of his life is taken place at this moment so hoist a beer and bid farewell to Josh. For those of you who don't indulge in alcoholic beverages raise a cup of tea and bid a Saint farewell.

 

LIEUTENANT-GENERAL G. PETER WALLS GLM, DCD, MBE

Dear Member / Friend Served as Commanding Officer of 1RLI from 1 December 1964 to 18 June 1967 Peter Walls was born and educated in Rhodesia. He first served in the military with the Black Watch at the end of World War Two. He returned to Rhodesia after the war and served in the Staff Corps, before being commissioned into the Southern Rhodesia Regiment. In 1951, he was selected to take an all-white unit, The Malayan Scouts, to Malaya to assist with that Emergency. He was promoted to captain as 2IC of the unit with an experienced British officer as OC. On reaching Malaya it was decided that, as it was an all-Rhodesian unit, it should be commanded by a Rhodesian—he was thus promoted to major and became OC. The unit stayed in Malaya for two years, becoming C (Rhodesia) Squadron SAS. On return to Rhodesia in March 1953 the unit was disbanded. For his services in Malaya he was awarded an MBE. After various staff appointments he attended Staff College at Camberley in the UK, before assuming command of RLI in 1964 and transforming the battalion into a commando unit. He was responsible for introducing the regiment’s green beret, which subsequently distinguished it from all other regiments on parade. On relinquishing command he became Commander 2 Brigade. He later became Chief of Staff as a major-general, before becoming Army Commander in 1972. He was appointed Commander of Combined Operations (ComOps) in 1977, an appointment he held until he retired to South Africa in late 1980 after Zimbabwean independence General GP (Peter) Walls and Eunice were about to board an aircraft yesterday morning (20 July 2010) bound from George to Johannesburg. The General succumbed to a heart attack prior to boarding the aircraft. He was a man of great integrity and grit and led the armed forces of Rhodesia well in the toughest of wartimes. General Walls will be sadly missed by all the members of the 1RLIRA and we extend our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Eunice Walls, the family and Peter’s friends. “How sleep the brave, who sink to rest, By all their country's wishes blest! By fairy hands their knell is rung, By forms unseen their dirge is sung. God and a soldier all people adore In time of war, but not before; And when war is over and all things are righted, God is neglected and an old soldier slighted. Enough of merit has each honoured name To shine untarnished on the rolls of fame, And add new lustre to the historic page.” Chairman 1RLIRA-SA Letters of Condolence I would like to extend my deepest condolence to the family and friends at the loss of a good man with good values. He was admired by many. Bert van der Vlugt Ex-Insp. BSAP 8559 Please extend our condolence to the family Phil Graham, Abu Dhabi. On behalf of the RLI Ouens in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Rim, please will you post our condolences on the RLI Website? A truly dedicated leader he was, and was respected by all. He goes ahead to join those already there and waits for us to join him. Heaven blesses the honorable. We of the RLI stand united in honour of a great man. Bruce McGregor Chairman RLIRA – Australasia Hi Bill. Dreadfully sorry to read of this! Thanks for letting me know. Alex Binda Yes a very sad and moving tragedy indeed. Peter was so strong and straightforward that he had both many friends and not a few opponents. Whatever any may have thought of Peter, 'he always did his best, according to his conscience, Rhodesian heritage, and common sense’. And there were many, many times that those three fine, enduring, and endearing attributes were very sorely tested during his periods of command of whatever organisation at whatever level. He was a true 'Rhodesian Son' of the very first order' May he now rest in Peace? For all of us who knew and respected him: , our memory of him , his unshakeable integrity and supreme gravitas, will endure as long as do our fond memories of 'Old Rhodesia ', that he so passionately protected, endure. Our warmest sympathies and condolences go to dear Eunice at this dreadful time for her. Sadly, but sincerely, John 'Digger' Essex-Clark. Canberra, Australia. Many thanks Billy, I really appreciate your kindness and all your hard work. Yes, so sad. He was a great man. Keep well Shamwari. Charlie Aust. He will certainly be among the saints in the heaven. M.Angeloni former Italian paratroopers’ officer Another good RLI ouen regrouping in the heavens above Gordon Harland A great man gone to sit at the side of GOD! A sad day indeed our sympathy to Val and the family. It was an honour to have known him. Alf Herbst. I was very sorry to hear of the death of Peter Walls. I knew him quite well, a soldier and a gentleman. Please pass my sincere condolences to his family. Regards, Fred Punter. Former BSAP. Dear Bill, Thank you for the notification. I served in the regiment when he was still CO, and Uncle Ron was RSM. Regards, Martin Haskins Good afternoon Billy, I am sorry to hear of Peters passing, Our Malaysian Veternas remeber him and us young ones all know of him. Notice of his sad death has been circulated amongst all of our veterans networks. "A giant tree falls in the forest and the forest weeps." (Old Maori farewell) Please pass on our thoughts and best wishes to all your members. Roger Bush NZSAS Borneo and Victor 3 South Vietnam.

 

R.F. REID-DALY CLM, DMM, MBE

Dear Member / Friend Ron Reid-Daly Born: 22 September 1928 and passed away: 9th August 2010 in Simons Town, South Africa Ron Reid-Daly was born on the 22nd September 1928 in Salisbury, Rhodesia. He attended Alan Wilson High School before joining the Post Office as a telephone technician, intent on making this his career. Lt Col Ron Reid Daly first became a soldier in 1951 when he volunteered to fight with 'C' (Rhodesia) Squadron of the British SAS, newly reformed to combat communist insurgency in Malaya. After this Ron Reid-Daly worked his way up through the ranks in the Rhodesian Army from trooper to become the first Regimental Sergeant Major of the newly formed Commando Battalion ;the Rhodesian Light Infantry. It was here that Reid-Daly came into his own, where his firm hand and disciplinary measures made him known throughout the army. The Regiment blossomed with Reid - Daly becoming somewhat of a legend. For his work and dedication to duty he was awarded the MBE. He was later commissioned and achieved the rank of Captain. Ron Reid-Daly was due for retirement from the Army in 1973. Later that same year Captain R.F. (Ron) Reid-Daly, (then O.C. Support Commando R.L.I.) was persuaded by General Peter Walls, the then chief of the Rhodesian Army, to stay on in continued serviced. He was to establish from scratch an elite Special Forces unit to combat the growing threat posed by communist supported guerrillas. Ron was subsequently appointed Commanding Officer of the new regiment which was named the "Selous Scouts" after the famous African hunter Frederick Courtney Selous. Col. Reid-Daly affectionately known as Uncle Ron passed away at home on the 9th August 2010 after a prolonged struggle with cancer and diabetes. He was the Associations Patron and will be sorely missed by us all. To David, Glenda, the family and Ron’s friends, the RLI Association offers our deepest condolences. "He was just a common Soldier and his ranks are growing thin. But his presence should remind us, we may need his like again. If we cannot do him honour, while he's here to hear the praise, and then at least let's give him homage, at the ending of his days." (Unknown) Perhaps just a simple headline, in the paper that might say: "Adieu, dear comrade! Your mission is fulfill’d-but I, more warlike, Myself, and this contentious soul of mine, Still on our own campaigning bound, Through untried roads, with ambushes, opponents lined, Through many a sharp defeat and many a crisis-often baffled, Here marching, ever marching on, a war fight out-aye here, To fiercer, weightier battles give expression." (Walt Whitman)

 

Sgt. MAJOR CHRIS PRETORIUS

Dear Member / Friend Chris Pretorius was born on the 25th December 1942 and passed away on the 10th April 2010

 

TERRY MILLER

Dear Member / Friend Terry was born in Plymouth England 27 November 1948. Terry was schooled at Milton High School in Bulawayo. In 1966 he joined 1 Commando. Terry was later transferred as a Corporal to C Company at Llewellyn Barracks. He was promoted to Sergeant at the beginning of 1972 and in 1974 transferred to the School of Infantry, Gwelo as Colour Sgt. Terry was promoted to WOII and posted back to RLI late in 1977. Terry returned to the School in 1979 where he took a Commission and was later promoted to Captain prior to and emigrating at the end of April 1982. We went to Umtata and worked for Uncle Ron Reid-Daly in the Transkei Defence Force along with the rest of the team that was deployed there. This was until 1984! After the Transkei Terry took a Management position in Bankor (Trust Bank) in Durban. After a few years he moved on to the Edgars group in Durban doing the same kind of work at all their shops. He took a transfer to Johannesburg in the early '90's and worked for Edcon. In about 1995 Terry joined JHI and looked after their huge buildings in different areas in the Jo'burg area. Outside of work he was a keen bowler and belonged to the Zoo Lake Bowls Club. His training capability came in good use because and was always on hand to teach new players and Terry greatly enjoyed it. This year (2011) he was going to play in the League! Terry passed away on the 25th December 2010 in Johannesburg Our sincere condolences to his brother Chris, Karen and children Dean and Ashleigh. Our thoughts are with you and your friends at the sad loss and of another RLI soldier gone to his rest. RLIRA Terry (62) was ex 1Cdo, School of Infantry (WO2) and brother to Chris. It seems that in life there are certain times Which are more than "simply unfair?" When our hearts search out for better answers But cannot seem to find them there And such is the case at your passing Contemplating the briefness of your life All the great things that you still would have done If you'd been granted a little more time. Your efforts will impact generations Through lives saved, and all the good you did Truly...you were OUR HERO And we all thank God that you lived.

 

TICKEY MELLET

Dear Member / Friend 1953 - 2010 Son of Maria and Karel Mellet of Gwelo Rhodesia 1953 - Born- 11 August Gwelo Rhodesia 1965 - 1969 Schooled- Thorn Hill High School Gwelo 1970- Joined the Rhodesian Army (RLI) 1976 - Married Heather Langley had 2 children David Mellet in 1976 Mandy Mellet in 1978 1980 - Left the Rhodesian army and started working for Compare Pty Ltd 1988 - Emigrated to South Africa Started working for Precious Metal Refiners in Springs 1990 - Moved to Ladysmith began working for R & C Express Freight 1994 - Became widow 1996 - Remarried Nicolene Else in Ladysmith 1999 - Transferred back to JHB – Boksburg. Worked for Value logistics 2004 - Became a widow again. Moved to Pietermaritzburg and began working for Sherwood Pumps 2010 Died suddenly from a bleeding ulcer Tribute from Tickey’s Daughter Mandy What can I say about my Dad anyone who knew him will remember him for his infectious laugh and joking nature. He was a man who could always make a plan and come out on top. He called a spade a spade, if you wanted the truth without the trimmings he was your ‘go to man’. There is not a day that I don’t think of him and miss him terribly, I wish I had slowed down and had a couple more beers with him. I was lucky enough to have worked for the same company as him for the last six years of his life. What a pleasure and an honor, he made the weeks and years funny and enjoyable, all too quickly they have gone. Cheers to you, my Dada till we meet again, until then I will see you in the eyes and mischievous antics of your grandchildren. Love Mandy.

 

PETE LANG

Dear Member / Friend 06/2010 It is with regret that we inform you of the passing away of Pete Lang (ex 1 CDO) Pete died on Thursday 16th December after suffering a heart attack (On the South Coast-KZN) Our sincere condolences to Pete's family and mates. We remember him well. Kind Regards Bill Wiggill CEO Life’s contract and death is expected As in a season of autumn The soldier falls He does not become a three days personage Imposing his separation Calling for pomp Death is absolute and without memorial As in a season of autumn when the wind stops "Wallace Stevens" Pete was born on the 9 January, 1953 in Pretoria, South Africa. He was educated at Umtali Boys High School and matriculated in 1969 Pete is survived by Carol, Valerie, Adrian and Kelvin TRIBUTE TO PETER LANG Peter was born in Pretoria, RSA, on January, 9th 1953 In 1959, the Lang family left SA and settled in Salisbury, Rhodesia. Soon moving to Ruwa, 20kms from Salisbury to start farming. Peter attended Courtney Selous School and then graduated from Umtali Boys’High From an early age he showed an investigative mind and displayed above average intelligence. Peter wanted to be a Game Ranger or District Commissioner on leaving school but was “persuaded” to join the army and ended up loving it. Peter was never happier than when he was in the bush. He joined the RLI One Commando in 1971 and signed up for 5 years. He seldom spoke about his experiences in the bush war, always returning home happy and smiling to his family. In later years, he spoke of his sadness and loss of Pete White and Doug Cookson in 1976, during the war. On leaving the army, Peter joined Kim’s Fencing. The fencing company also gave Peter the bush life. There were big contracts, border fencing and the biggest was around a huge prison near Gwelo, which took months. Peter met Clare Craney in August 1971 and they married on December 18th, 1976. Sadly, they divorced in 1978, but Clare has remained close to the family ever since and remains part of our family today. Peter moved to Goromonzi, on Binda Estate, which he loved and he continued to work for Kim’s fencing for many years. He was in Botswana in 1980 and lived on a beautiful property, rented from Jackie Khama, daughter to Seretse and Ruth Khama. It was a tranquil place, surrounded by African bush and wildlife. Peter often went up and down the nearby river in his motored boat, with his beloved Staffordshire dogs on board and would relate the beauty of nature, animals, wildlife and the stars. Peter loved the stars, planets and galaxies in the Cosmos. He was fascinated by all new findings from the Hubble Space Telescope and had a tremendous and valued knowledge on the subject. Peter moved to Empangeni in 1983 to work. Work became limited and he moved to Johannesburg in 1985 to share an apartment with his sister, Val, in Primrose Hill, Germiston. It was the first time Peter was confined to apartment living but it was two years of magic and delight of being together. The two of them had so much fun and were forever in trouble for loud music, parties and laughter! Peter moved to the West Rand in 1987, a larger property and more in line to open space! He just seemed to attract the neighbouring