Members of the SANDF who have selflessly served the force for 30 and 40 years were applauded for their service during a Distinguished Conduct and Loyal Service Medal Parade Ceremony that took place at Diskobolos in Kimberley.
MEMBERS of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) who have selflessly served the force for 30 and 40 years were applauded for their service during a Distinguished Conduct and Loyal Service Medal Parade Ceremony that took place at Diskobolos in Kimberley.
The Chief of Logistics, Lieutenant-General Jabulani Sydney Mbuli, commended the men and women for their determination and efforts over the years.
“These medals symbolise the time you have sacrificed to help the SANDF to pursue its mission, vision values and principles through your continued contributions. These medals also symbolise the appreciation of the organisation towards excellence service you as SANDF rendered in service of your country. Recipients, wear these medals with pride as you deserve them,” Mbuli said.
“These members have devoted their lives to the country and have excelled in their sanctified duties as part of the SANDF in their various environments. These medals have been issued to these men and women for the great work they have done and their commitment to serving the people of South Africa and the world at large.”
One of the members who received a medal for 40 years of service, Warrant Officer Raleigh Charles Johnson, said he feels honoured by the recognition.
Johnson advised the younger members to learn from the older members in the organisation.
“I joined the SANDF in 1975 and did my training in Cape Town. I feel honoured to be part of the SANDF. Back then, there were not many opportunities for people of colour, however we were able to make a difference through the SANDF. The SANDF has changed over the years. The training is not as tough as it was back then, but members must at all times maintain the discipline of the organisation. They must serve the organisation with pride and not simply abide by the regulations and rules of the force, but also uphold them as they are an example thereof,” Johnson said.
Another member, who received a medal for his 30 years of service to the organisation, Sergeant-Major Bennet Sello Molibeli, advised the youth not to see the SANDF as simply a means to employment.
“One has to serve this organisation with passion and commitment. It is not an organisation that you can merely just walk away from. We serve our country and its people, and even take a vow to lay down our lives for our country. It is a deep covenant that you join once you sign up,” said Molibeli.
“I was 28 years old when I joined the organisation and the SANDF has since become my home. The defence force also treated me like family as it took care of my loved ones when I was deployed out of the country or away from home.
“Members must serve the defence force selflessly and be disciplined. The defence force should not be seen as just an employment option but it should always be an honour and privilege to form part of the organisation.”
