A tribute by Eugene Eloff to Ettienne Bell (D-Coy 78/79) and the rest of our fallen brothers
Rooiplaas representatives at St Andrews School Remembrance Day, Bloemfontein, 12 November 2021
Remembrance Day, 11 November
South Africa Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day owing to the tradition of wearing a remembrance poppy) is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War to honour armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. Following a tradition inaugurated by King George V in 1919,[1] the day is also marked by war remembrances […]
Para-Sapper Reunion, Naboomspruit, 5-6 November 2021
Tucked away in the Bushveld, a tranquil gem of a hide-away called Diamond Creek Bush Lodge played host to the first-ever Para-Sapper Reunion held on 5 & 6 November 2021. A group of para-sappers, many of whom had not seen each other for decades, had to privilege of reconnecting and reminiscing on their mutual and […]
One Thousand Men are Walking – Joshua Dyer
Joshua Dyer (aged 14) was tasked at school to write a poem for Remembrance Day. An hour later (without any help) he produced this. ONE THOUSAND MEN ARE WALKINGOne thousand men are walkingWalking side by sideSinging songs from homeThe spirit as their guidethey walk toward the light milordthey walk towards the sunthey smoke and laugh […]
International Terrorism in the New Millenium – an evening with Johan Raath – (ex-Recce SA Special forces). 15 October 2021. Hosted by Rooiplaas, Bloemfontein.
CASSINGA – Perceptions, Interpretations and Opinions
Song of the Airborne
Song of the Airborne I trust my life to silk and nylon cords that promise to suspend me from the sky. I trust the weeks of training that awards the silver wings that money cannot buy to every volunteer who stays the course, like every paratrooper has before. I trust them all, their strength; I […]
In Memoriam: Cornelis van der Nest
12 August 1978
A write-up on the 60th Birthday of 1 Para Bn at Rooiplaas Function Venue, Bloemfontein on 5-6 June 2021.
Written by Eeben Barlow. (http://parabat.org.za/wp-content/PVOapp/BATCHAT_SEPT_21.pdf)
