Article and Photos by: Lieutenant Colonel Mafi Mgobozi, South African Army Corporate Communication

Spectators screamed and shouted “Ingane Zethu”, which means “our children”, when Lieutenant Colonel Zweni, the Acting Officer Commanding of 3 South African Infantry Battalion, led his recruits onto the parade ground. They went wild when the Kroonstad Band marched onto the parade. This happened on 13 May 2010 at 3 South African Infantry Battalion during Military Skills Development System (MSDS) Passing-Out Parade, at which 937 recruits graduated. The main functionary was Lieutenant General Solly Shoke, the Chief of the Army.

3 South African Infantry Battalion Recruits

3 South African Infantry Battalion Recruits

During his address, Lieutenant General Shoke told the recruits that they had just completed the first hurdle of a long journey in the military environment and that it was very encouraging to see young stars swelling the ranks of the Defence Force. He reminded them that the military was a calling not just an ordinary job. He emphasised that they had to ready to lay down their life in defence of their country. That week about 4 000 recruits from all over the country successfully completed their Basic Military Training.

Chief of the Army, Lieutenant General S.Z. Shoke

He told the recruits that they had to think positive, believe in themselves and be confidence in order to combat fear. He then thanked the instructors and the supporting staff for their endless efforts to ensure that they produced the best of the best. He also thanks the parents and family members of the recruits for their support.
 
During the parade various trophies were awarded to the best recruits. The overall best academic Recruit N.T. Mathe, said that he really enjoyed the course and was looking forward to serving his country. He said that he had a passion for the army. When asked what inspired him to join the Army, he said that war movies and his love for his country had inspired him. He further explained that he always wanted to play an important part in defending his country and that joining the Army was the only option to make his dream come true. He thanked his colleagues and instructors for supporting him during the training.

Recruit N.T. Mathe

Similar parades were held at Infantry School in Oudtshoorn, 15 South African Infantry Battalion in Thoyoandou, 4 South African Infantry Battalion in Middelburg, 4 Artillery Regiment, 1 Tactical Intelligence Regiment in Potchefstroom and the School of Engineering in Kroonstad.

 These members will now continue the corps training at their individual units.