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| The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya presides over a medal parade at Air Force Base Ysterplaat in Cape Town. The ceremony honoured SANDF members for long service and dedication. Image: Henk Kruger / Independent Media |
The Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), General Rudzani Maphwanya, presided over a significant medal parade at the Air Force Base in Ysterplaat on Friday, recognising the dedication and commitment of men and women from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Many recipients have devoted 30 to 40 years of their lives to the force, exemplifying loyalty and sacrifice in service to South Africa.
A Reminder of selfless service
In his address, the Chaplain reminded attendees that the recipients had made a conscious decision to serve their country and the world above themselves. “These men and women receiving those medals today chose to love their country and the world more than they loved themselves. They gave up their lives for 30 to 40 years in service. We thank God for this dedication and love. May those of us who are still behind and watching learn from their example,” he said.
Guardians of democracy
General Maphwanya praised the decorated soldiers as the “ultimate guardians of our democracy,” acknowledging the pride they have brought to the SANDF and the nation. “Every action, every hour of training you endured, through your unwavering commitment, ensured that our country remained unified and protected as we continue to pursue the dream of a beautiful South Africa. Our resolve to ensure that peace prevails on our continent is at the very heart of our work,” he stated.
Significance of recognition
What makes the ceremony even more special is that only the Chief of the SANDF is permitted to decorate members who have served 30 and 40 years, emphasising the significance of such recognition and the depth of their work. “You are the final line of defence, ensuring that our democratic rights are safeguarded for every citizen. Today we celebrate not only achievement, but also the character and values that define the SANDF. These values are the lived reality of our soldiers,” Maphwanya said.
Contributions beyond borders
Acknowledging the defence force’s wider contribution, he reflected: “Our vision is to create a better defence force for soldiers and for the nation. The South African National Defence Force has been the guardian of peace and the defender of the nation, showing resilience, courage, and love for South Africa. We have contributed to building hospitals and supporting foreign policy trusts in various regions of the continent.”
Gratitude for support
He also expressed gratitude for the support that underpins the work of the SANDF. “We acknowledge the support of our families and the people of our nation. We recognise the sacrifices made by members to protect deployments and to face challenges both at home and abroad. Today we also welcome back our troops deployed under difficult conditions in the DRC, bringing greetings from President Cyril Ramaphosa,” he said.
Reflections from service members
Warrant Officer Freddie Reed, who has been serving in the Navy since January 1994, reflected on what sets members of the defence force apart. “The military is one place where you can find direction, especially when it comes to military discipline. I’ll always go back to that, because what distinguishes a sailor or soldier from a civilian is the military discipline,” he said.
Staff Sergeant Mario Brien, who has been serving in the Army for 33 years, described the moment as a great honour and achievement. “Being a soldier is not easy. Sometimes you get tired, but your training and your discipline push you to move forward,” he stated.
Honouring fallen comrades
The parade also included a tribute to fallen comrades who lost their lives in service. “We honour those who died protecting our values and our nation. Their sacrifices are woven into the very fabric of our flag and our uniform. They are the ones we will never forget,” Maphwanya concluded.
A Celebration of service
The medal parade served not only as recognition of service and sacrifice but also as a reminder of the vital role the defence force plays in upholding democracy and peace, both within South Africa and across the continent. Lindsay Adams, whose husband Chief Petty Officer Ashley Adams served in the Navy for 30 years, expressed her immense pride. “All the sacrifices, the late evenings, the dedication. I am just so proud...”
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