The annual South African National Defence Force (SANDF) medal parade took place at the Ysterplaat Air Force Base on Friday 21 April where 189 medals were awarded for 30 and 40 years of service respectively.
The medals were handed over to deserving and patriotic members of the defence force.
As some of these members had already passed on, family members had the privilege of receiving the medals on behalf of their loved ones.
A spouse received a medal on behalf of her late husband, Chief Petty Officer Malgas.
She had an emotional experience when her late husband’s particulars were called.
She shared with the Ysterplaat Air Force Base media liaison, Miceala Koeries, that she felt unworthy to accept the medal on his behalf and wished he was there in person as he selflessly served in the SA Navy and left a footprint in his immediate community.
40 years service
Another deserving member was Alvin Levinthal who received the 30 Medal Bar Silver and the 40 years Medal Bar Gold for service.
He says he was the first intake in 1983 in the history of 1 SACC BN (Faure) to obtain a 40 years Gold Medal Bar.
“I dedicate this achievement to my fallen Ops Medics 1983 intake, Cpl JJJ Wildschudt and Cpl Frank Corrie. To 1 SACC BN. 1983. OIC. Commandant (Colonel) Nick Mostert (Ret), RSM (MCWO) Eddie Sykes (Ret). My Foxtrot Company Captain (Major) late Terreblache, CSM. Siebrits, Platoon Commander. Lt Louw, Platoon Sgt. LP Meyer and Section Leader Cpl Adams for moulding me into a combat infantry soldier. “Everyone that forms part of my military career, you’re always in my heart.
“Time now for my retirement after serving for 40 years.”
