JANSEN VAN VUUREN, Johan Mattheus, Arm 21LAR – 30.11.69 (20) – killed in an accident on Ring road , New Sarum, in collision with another car
Ref. Rhodesia Air Force, ORAFs
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Johan Mattheus Jansen Van Vuuren
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Newsletter
Anthony Webb (DRR)
Rogues Gallery
PHOTO - CARPENTERS SHOP NEW SARUM
Skippy Mitchell (RhArmy) Writes:-
I would think the picture was taken in 1980 sometime (not the mid 70’s) as they all seem to be wearing the Zimbabwe Independence Medal ribbon?
Mike Hamence (RhAF) Writes:-
That photo brings back a host of memories; Bill Ramsay fought for years to be promoted to \'Master Tech\'. It was only after HA Watson retired that he was granted that simple step up the promotion ladder... Just another piece of cloth on the sleeve.
One of those carpenters in the photo had more power in the latter-day RhAF than the one that rumour has it \'Was born in Nazareth\'.
Few will know that Bill Ramsay built the purpose-made containers for the Hawk main planes, damaged in the 1962 mystery, to be sent back to BAe Kingston-On-Thames.
I know... My job with BAe took me there in 1985 and I saw them.
On behalf of Betty Ramsay, Eleanor & Alan,
Please Publish this under my name.
Mike Hamence, Manilva, Andalucia.
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=177837&comments=1
A DAY WITH INTAF - 1976
John Hill (BSAP) Writes:-
I was at Mapai late last year - the population there are still using similar carts to the one in your photo.
A few hundred metres away from where I saw the cart was a standard African style \'business center\' with a TV set powered by a solar panel marked \'TelkomSA\'! I may have a photo. If I find it will send on to you.
Ces la vie.
Refer http://rhodesianheritage.blogspot.com/2013/12/a-day-with-intaf-1976.html
SHANGHAIED DRUM MAJOR
Mike Hamence (RhAF) Writes;-
Your item about AVM J E Johnson made for interesting reading.
In 1956, after a spell at RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire, I was posted to RAF Oakington near Cambridge.
The Bandmaster of the Oakington Brass Band saw that I had been a Bass Drummer with RAF Halton Apprentices Pipes & Drums. So, I was \'shanghaied\' into becoming the Oakington Band Drum Major.
September 1956 saw AVM Johnson as Reviewing Officer at the Cambridge BofB Ceremonies. Parades etc, and march-pasts all went off without a hitch until the time came to request AVM Johson\'s permission to dismiss the band.
I took \'one pace forward\', saluted him and plonked the mace on his foot!
I kid you not!
REMINDERS FROM OUR PAST - DECEMBER 07
Vampire FB 52 (R8134) (Cat 5) - No further detail known
Dave Bourhill (RhAF) Writes:-
A bit of info on that FB9 cat 5 on the 7th. Dec. I landed short of the runway after an air test . The Vamp had just been rebuilt by Ray Cox and his team, he was not amused.
Mike Hamence (RhAF) Writes:-
If memory serves, subject Vamp was landed gracefully by D Bourhill on TH runway... \'Wheels Up\'.
FATHER CHRISTMAS IN CHIMOIO
A few comments received:-
Gary Wade (RhAF) Writes:-
This set of pics brought man tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing.
Brian Snyman (RhAF) Writes:-
Having just seen Bob Manser\'s pics of Father Christmas alighting from his fire-engine red Alo, I am amazed that these people, I assume, live in Chimoio. I also assume they farm the land and provide jobs to the locals too - typical old Rhodesian spirit and I take my hat off to them.
I subsequently looked further into Alo ZU-RFI and found a posting from you in Jan 2012, with Bob Manser requesting any info regarding this Alo. If he is still looking for info, I have some for him - just let me know if I can send it to him directly or if it must go via yourself.
Will Ransom (RhArmy) Writes:-
Wonderful. I feel all choked up...
I think I\'ve been away from Africa too long, and missed all the name changes. I thought Chimoio was in Mocambique (note the correct lettering.!)..? Obviously there is another one.
How happy and relaxed everyone looks. Makes me want to come home.
Refer http://rhodesianheritage.blogspot.com/2013/12/father-christmas-visits-chimoio.html to read this article on line.
Suggested reading by ORAFs
http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=552080#677891 (Rebuild of ZU-RFI (5757) \"Henry\"
and
http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=179792#118749 (Death of Henry Jarvie)
MISSING PERSON
Tony Ballinger (RhArmy) Writes:-
If anyone knows the whereabouts of the relatives of Colin Mcleod Murray of 9th Batt, RR, who was killed in ambush returning from Vila Salazar on 1-2-1978. A recent colleague of mine, Rob Edminson, would like to make contact with his relatives to perhaps get a photo of Colin or give his respects to them as they were very close friends.
Replies direct to Tony on tony@ballinger5422.freeserve.co.uk
HOW TO OPEN A BEER - THE ULTIMATE COMPILATION
Tom Krummell (USA) recommends this video:-
Refer https://www.youtube.com/embed/0QmKHfYfovk?rel=0
THE HINDENBERG - UNSEEN PHOTOS
Nick Baalbergen (Intaf) recommends this site:-
Refer http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2012/05/75-years-since-the-hindenburg-disaster/100292
WORLD WAR 2 - FLANDERS FIELDS
ORAFS recommends:-
Mustard gas blisters and a daily risk of death: Bravery of soldiers still clearing the \'iron harvest\' of World War I shells from beneath Flanders\' fields
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2497732/The-iron-harvest-Meet-soldiers-tasked-clearing-hundreds-tonnes-deadly-World-War-I-shells-mines-beneath-fields-Flanders.html#ixzz2moRI70Mv
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
SMILE A WHILE
A man and his wife were awakened at 3:00 am by a loud pounding on the door. The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push.
\"Not a chance,\" says the husband, \"it\'s 3:00 in the morning!\"
He slams the door and returns to bed.
\"Who was that?\" asked his wife.
\"Just some drunk guy asking for a push,\" he answers.
\"Did you help him?\" she asks.
\"No, I did not, it is 3:00 in the morning and it is pouring rain out there!\"
\"Well, you have a short memory,\" says his wife. \"Can\'t you remember about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself! \"God loves drunk people too.”
The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pounding rain.
He calls out into the dark, \"Hello, are you still there?\"
\"Yes,\" comes back the answer.
\"Do you still need a push?\" calls out the husband.
\"Yes, please!\" comes the reply from the dark.
\"Where are you?\" asks the husband.
\"Over here on the swing \" replied the drunk.
\"\"Nature gave us one tongue and two ears so we could hear twice as much as we speak.
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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CARLOS GOMES NOW APPOINTED AS AN HONORARY CHIEF IN NIGERIA
By Kevin Milligan
Merry Christmas to one and all.
Just thought the ex PJI\'s would like to know that one of our own - Carlos Gomes was recently appointed as an Honorary Chief for his work with SA Breweries in Nigeria.
See photographs
He is now Chief Babalage (means Chief of Commerce) for the work carried out by the Industry for the local community.
Coincidentally the Blue robe he is wearing for the occasion is called a \"parachute\". Very fitting for an ex PJI don\'t you think?
Have a great Christmas and keep up the good work next year.
Blue skies
Kevin Milligan
End
End
Thanks to Kevin Milligan for sharing thes photographs and information
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Newsletter
Peter Browne (4RR)
Rogues Gallery
SGT BARBEAR
Derek de Kock (RhAF) Writes:-
Does anybody know what became of Fred Bear (Barbear) the PTS drifter/mascot. This is a request from my daughter who would be prepared to buy him from current owner. She would LOVE to have him.
Derek forgets that Barbear was promoted to Sergeant and comes from a fine pedigree. Please see http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=356057#435863 for his credentials.
If you can help Derek please contact him on goats1@optusnet.com.au
YOUTUBE
Paul Norris recommends
Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=QkqgZACcY0Q&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DQkqgZACcY0Q%26feature%3Dyoutu.be&app=desktop
Breitling and Honor Flight surprise WWII vets with a trip of a lifetime
DECEMBER 22 - REMINDERS FROM THE PAST
Rick Singleton (RhAF) Writes:-
In today\'s reminders from the past you note the crash of Alo 5724. I am fairly sure that the tech was Finch Bellringer. My log book shows that I was with Vic Cooke and this Ndege from 9th to 16th Dec 1976 , in the Rutenga/ Malipati neck of the woods. I can remember handing over to Finch at Rutenga. If memory serves me correctly the aircraft was very new, possibly its 1st bush tour, and there was a bit of banter about this between Finch and I .
I was still on R&R when news came through that Vic and Finch had had rather a nasty incident but fortunately both guys went on to do more bush tours.
MISSING PERSON
Peter Jones (RhAF) Writes:-
An old friend of mine’s father, Jimmy Stewart, came out from the UK as an instructor at the Flying School. They lived in Gwelo and one of Jimmy’s students was none other than Ian Smith. Would you have any information on Jimmy at all or any photos? There was a story that he had been fighting in the Battle of Britain but I can find no trace of his involvement at all and his name does not appear on any lists either.
Pete - take a peep at http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=378755#481259 - could this be your man?
If anyone can help Pete please contact him on peterjones@theriverclubzambia.com
MISSING CITATION
Cocky Beneke has requested help in trying to locate his citation, he was awarded the SCR (Bar) and The Defence Cross for Distinguished Service (D.C.D.)
If you can assist Cocky please contact on cobenecke@gmail.com
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Cape) Monthly Braai
First Friday night of each month.
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
SMILE A WHILE
I took my son out for his first pint. Got him a Fosters.
He didn\'t like it - I had it.
Then I got him Carlsberg, he didn\'t like it, I had it.
It was the same with Guinness and Cider.
By the time we got down to the whisky I could hardly push the pram.
\"The reason women don\'t play football is because 11 of them would never wear the same outfit in public. \"
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ref. ORAFs, Rhodesian Air Force
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HARVARDS IN RHODESIA -1941
See Photograph
\"Pupils at an advanced training school in Rhodesia with their Harvards in the background, 1941?\"
Source: http://nla.gov.au/nla.pic-vn3723238
ORAFs records its thanks to the National Library of Australia for the use of their material
End
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
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Newsletter
L.Cpl Hulley (DRR)
Rogues Gallery
YOUTUBE
Tony Cowell recommends:-
Hubble Pointing at Nothing
This is fascinating. I challenge you to wrap your mind around this. Apparently our planet, even our galaxy, is like a tiny speck of sand in an immense ocean.
In 1996 astronomers pointed the Hubble Space Telescope at what appeared to be absolutely nothing and left it there for 10 days, and then in 2004, they did it again for 11 days. This time they pointed the Hubble toward another seemingly black, empty \"nothing\" area. A narrator describes what Hubble revealed in those areas of nothingness. They made the images Hubble recorded into a 3-D presentation. Remember, the speed of light is 186,000 miles a second. When light travels at that speed for an entire year, that is equal to one light year. The meaning of what Hubble found is beyond my comprehension.
Sound on. http://www.flixxy.com/hubble-ultra-deep-field-3d.htm
It would be foolish to think that we may be the onlycivilization inthis vast universe.
The Emigrants Tale
There is warmth we miss when away from her
A feeling that never leaves you – ever
Like that lost love you always long for
It is in her nature to bring you adventure
Good or bad, she is never anything but exciting
Oh Africa how much we miss you
Difficult, dangerous, captivating and charming
How much we ache for the want of you
It is the price we pay for the illusion of safety
Phil Tither (RhArmy -RHAF) 17 July 2012
Queensland Australia
HARVARDS IN RHODESIA (Photo recently distributed0
Ant Richardson Writes:-
This photo is CM 1178 from the Imperial War Museum collection. Caption reads: \" Royal Air Force, the Rhodesian Air Training Group in Southern Rhodesia, 1941-1945. Trainee pilots at No. 20 Service Flying Training School, Cranborne, walk to North American Harvard Mark Is for their training flights\"
P-5976 was an NA-16 Harvard 1 cn 49-1246
There are several other photos of Cranborne - see here:
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Harvard_(Royal_Air_Force)
Mike Hamence (RhAF) Writes:-
I was very interested to see the \'photo; one of the Harvards shown is tail no. \'P5976\'
According to my copies of F/O Harry Hilton Wheeler\'s logbook (born Gatooma), as a pupil he flew \'P5976\' at 20 FTS with Instructor W/O Jones on April 21, 1943. He flew also: \'P5974\' & \'P5978\', among others with \'3-digit\' tail nos.
After AFS in England, Harry Wheeler went on to fly Typhoons with No 266 (Rhodesia) Sqn.
Your item for Dec 25, 2013, records the death of F/S PCN (\'Pithy\') Green, shot down in a Typhoon over Holland. \'Pithy\' Green and Harry Wheeler were schoolboy chums.
Harry Wheeler returned to Holland in 1946 to visit \'Pithy\'s\' grave.
All this is in my book \'Zulu Contrails\' which has been in the hands of \'30 Degrees South\' & Helion publishers for many a month...
PS: To my previous: When Harry Wheeler was shot down the second time in August 1944, his \'wing man\' was \'Ginger\' Cunnison, later \'Dad\' Cunnison, OCFW at TH, 1963.
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122275&comments=1
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Doug Smith (RhAF) Writes:-
Eddy, please put this on your circulation.
Don’t ever worry about things slowing down and others speeding up.
I can tell you one thing from us buggers all over the world that you have done an amazing job
with our ORAFS e mail link. All of us look forward to seeing your e mails in our in box. For me, if I have a
pile of e mails, yours are the first ones I read, work can wait.
EDDY and your family, THANKS GUYS, you are very special to all of us.
Regards
All of us out here.
FLYING BOATS OVER AFRICA
Bruce Rooken-Smith recommends this video:-
Quite a long one - mainly about a Catalina following the old Sunderland route up the Nile and possibly to the Cape; one of the Cat\'s engines was purchased in Zimbabwe.
Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv8PDWHNOfA
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Cape) Monthly Braai
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Johnny Ness and or Tony Cowell for details
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday afternoon of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
Contact Cheryl Grover for details
AFA (Natal) Social
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Neville Mare (RhAF) for details
SMILE A WHILE
Jewish Humour
Remember the old-time Jewish comedians of Vaudeville days - Shecky Green, Red Buttons, Totie Fields, Milton Berle, Henny Youngman, and others? You may have only heard of them, but don\'t we all miss their kind of humour? Not a single swear word in their comic routines:
* A car hit an elderly Jewish man. The paramedic says, \"Are you comfortable? \" The man says, \"I make a good living.\"
* I just got back from a pleasure trip. I took my mother-in-law to the airport.
* I\'ve been in love with the same woman for 49 years. If my wife finds out, she\'ll kill me!
* Someone stole all my credit cards, but I won\'t be reporting it. The thief spends less than my wife did.
* We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops.
* My wife and I went to a hotel where we got a waterbed. My wife calls it the Dead Sea.
* My wife and I revisited the hotel where we spent our wedding night. This time I was the one who stayed in the bathroom and cried.
* My Wife was at the beauty shop for two hours. That was only for the estimate. She got a mudpack and looked great for two days. Then the mud fell off.
* The Doctor gave a man six months to live. The man couldn\'t pay his bill, so the doctor gave him another six months.
* The Doctor called Mrs. Cohen saying, \"Mrs. Cohen, your cheque came back.\" Mrs. Cohen replied, \"So did my arthritis!\"
* Doctor: \"You\'ll live to be 60!\" Patient: \"I AM 60!\" Doctor: \"See! What did I tell you?\"
* A doctor held a stethoscope up to a man\'s chest. The man asks, \"Doc, how do I stand? \"The doctor says, \"That\'s what puzzles me!\"
* Patient: \"I have a ringing in my ears. \" Doctor: \"Don\'t answer!\"
* A drunk was in front of a judge. The judge says, \"You\'ve been brought here for drinking. \"The drunk says, \"Okay, let\'s get started.\"
*Why do Jewish divorces cost so much? They\'re worth it.
* Why do Jewish men die before their wives? They want to.
*The Harvard School of Medicine did a study of why Jewish women like Chinese food so much. The study revealed that the reason for this is because Won Ton spelled backward is Not Now.
*There is a big controversy on the Jewish view of when life begins. In Jewish tradition, the foetus is not considered viable until it graduates from law school.
Q : Why don\'t Jewish mothers drink?
A : Alcohol interferes with their suffering.
Q : Have you seen the newest Jewish-American-Princess horror movie?
A : It\'s called, \"Debbie Does Dishes.\"
Q : Why do Jewish mothers make great parole officers?
A : They never let anyone finish a sentence.
A man called his mother in Florida, \"Mum, how are you?\" Not too good,\" said the mother. \"I\'ve been very weak.\" The son said, \"Why are you so weak?\" She said, \"Because I haven\'t eaten in 38 days.\" The son said, \"That\'s terrible. Why haven\'t you eaten in 38 days? \"The mother answered, \"Because, I didn\'t want my mouth to be full in case you should call.\"
*A Jewish man said that when he was growing up, they always had two choices for dinner - Take it or leave it.
*A Jewish boy comes home from school and tells his mother he has a part in the play. She asks, \"What part is it?\" The boy says, \"I play the part of the Jewish husband. \"The mother scowls and says, \"Go back and tell the teacher you want a speaking part.\"
Q : Where does a Jewish husband hide money from his wife?
A : Under the vacuum cleaner.
Q : How many Jewish mothers does it take to change a light bulb?
A : (Sigh) \"Don\'t bother. I\'ll sit in the dark. I don\'t want to be a nuisance to anybody.\"
A Jewish mother gives her son a blue shirt and a brown shirt for his birthday. On the next visit, he wears the brown one. The mother says, \"What\'s the matter already? Didn\'t you like the blue one?\"
Did you hear about the bum who walked up to a Jewish mother on the street and said, \"Lady I haven\'t eaten in three days.\" She replied, \"Force yourself.\"
Q : What\'s the difference between a Rottweiler and a Jewish mother?
A : Eventually, the Rottweiler lets go.
\"WORK HARDER - Millions On Welfare Depend On You!. \"
My wishes for you,
great start for Jan,
Love for Feb,
peace for March,
No worries for April,
fun for May,
Joy for June to Nov,
happiness for Dec.
Have a lucky and wonderful 2014
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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Bill Hayes
Bill Hayes entered into rest at 20h00 on December 24, 2013 in the hospital in Inverness Scotland he under a huge operation for bowel cancer and soon after the operation a huge duodenal ulcer burst.
Our deepest sympathy to Ruby and family.
Bill was a direct entry member of Safety equipment, attained the rank of WO1 and spent many hours in the Paint Spray shop.
Regret - no photograph of Bill held by ORAFs - can you help with one?
Thanks to Rich for sharing this information with ORAFs
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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15 LAR attest
Details of phpotp and Course
Back Row: 1 - 2 - 3 - Reg Carroll - John Whiddett - Terry Craven
Standing: Johnny Ness - Ernie Boardman - 3 - 4 - Marcus Proome - 6
On Chairs: Jimmy Crookes - Steve Stead - Jock Howie - Harry Marshall - Ernie de Goveia
Dave Whittingham
Front Row: 1 - 2 - Johnny Schonken - Doug Da Costa - 5 - Roland Charles
If you are able to assist with further names then please mail Ron Janson on mailto:ronjanson@gmail.com who will correlate the details. Thanks Ron
Course details held by ORAFs:-
Surname Initials First Name
Boardman E.J. Ernie
Cannon T. Tony -
Carroll R.E. Rich
Charles R. Roland
Coulter I. Ian
Craven T.P. Terry
Day G.S. Gordon
Dick R.P. Dick
Hugo V.J. Victor
Johnson B.N. Barry
Joss M.C.F. Mick
Larsen D.G. Dave
Ness J.A. John
Proome M.P. Marcus
Schonken J.F.W.T. Johnny
Trollope R.A. Rich -
Upton M. Mike
Whiddett J.V. John
Wickham P. Pete
Wright K.F. Keith
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Newsletter
Newsletter
January 05 2014
Norman Stockton (DPay RhArmy)
Rogues Gallery
50th ANNIVERSARY
Roland Charles (15 LAR) Writes:-
To all members of:-
15 LAR 06 Jan 1964
16 LAR 13 Jan 1964
17 LAR 20 Jan 1964
Happy 50th Anniversary, this was the day when our lives changed for the better, serving with excellent people in the BEST Air force around!
Thank you ALL for the years we have shared as friends and companions!
Hope you all are spared with good health for many years to come.
To those attending the reunion enjoy it
MEDICAL UPDATE - CHERYL GROVER
Cheryl was laid low over the Festive Seasons but ORAFs is pleased to report that she is back normal and at work with the Serviceman project.
JOHN BRITTON - ANTARCTICA - SANAE BASE
JB Writes from amongst the Penguins:-
I have been busy as heck here, there and everywhere for work, Cape Town Durban, Mossel bay, now in the ice palace.
We left early this year, not sure why, 28th November, no one can really tell me.
The seas en route were not too bad just one day on bumpy seas, made life easier at meal times as most of the people were\" unwell\". so seats were available, usually 2 sittings.
The new ship, AGULHAS 2, those who did not know we have a bigger & better ship, upgraded class ice breaker but not a full ice breaker. It does the job.
Soon we started to hit the ice small & manageable but as time went on it became thicker & some of the older hands say that the ice is thicker than usual this year, I agree with this, some ice we cut through was up to 2 meters thick.
We stuck fairly solid at times & the ships engines were giving all they had against the ice which after the sun-what we had of it- soon warmed the ice a bit & she broke through.
This happened regularly and& we had been on the ship battling the ice for
3 weeks and 3 days until we made our rendezvous point at the German off loading point on the ice shelf.
Their idea of it taking 12 days went out the window.
We then up anchor after off loading the German equipment & moved to the SA off loading point about a days sailing away, as it was closer to fly passengers and equipment from there about 45 minutes - 1 hour as opposed to from the German base of about 1,45 minutes making a big difference fuel wise as well as weight wise.
Temperatures have also been colder than experienced in past years hence the ice being thicker-my theory- Never mind Global warming !!
What of Global cooling!!.
Once we had moved all the scientists, DEA (Department of environmental
affairs) our spare engine & Main gear box all our spares, as well as all the Scientific equipment. We the next day with our kit headed for the SA base -SANAE-
We flew flight to Troll the Norwegian base with some Geologists, who were staying there to do some survey for a week or two on a very reasonable day weather wise.
A flight planned to Neumeyer the German base on the 30th Dec. with 8 passengers left here in very poor /cold conditions it was - 18deg. C outside- with quite hectic winds gusting, a poor call on the pilots side as they flew 12 minutes & returned, with a few \" I told you so\"
We pushed the helicopter into the hanger and retired for a cup of Milo!!
The two chefs we have here are doing a sterling job 1 is from the Navy the other is from Smit Marine, a chef on the ships. So food is really good, they are restricted in a way with rations but making a great effort so far, for example the bananas that arrived here were already going \"black\" not rotten as they are treated to last longer but not too inviting to look at, so they baked a batch of Banana bread with custard for after one evening.
Well it is New years eve, again where did the year go I am on stand by to night- sorry it is 24hrs sunlight here- so on stand by anyway.
Hope you all had a good one and the best to you all for the New Year 2014.
(All the best to you JB from all of us - thanks you for all the updates of your travels. Eddy Norris)
VAMPIRE/VENOM INFORMATION
I am researching a number of topics related to the Vampire and Venom series, initially for some magazine articles, although it may all grow into a fully-blown book, since the types have never been served very well in print.
As a starter I am looking for any information/photos/stories, etc regarding the RRAF Vampire FB.9s and T.11s. Among the topics I am keen to explore are the types of sorties/operations flown, any issues with the aircraft, possible exchanges or cross-operation with the RAF Venoms at Eastleigh or the SAAF Vampires, that kind of thing.
I would be most grateful for any help and welcome your thoughts on all this.
Best regards
Dr Steve Bond PhD CEng FRAeS
Milton Keynes, UK
Replies direct to Steve on bond.steven2@sky.com
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Cape) Monthly Braai
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Johnny Ness and or Tony Cowell for details
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday afternoon of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
Contact Cheryl Grover for details
AFA (Natal) Social
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Neville Mare (RhAF) for details
SMILE A WHILE
A DC \'airport ticket agent\' offers some examples of why the US is in
so much trouble!
1.I had a New Hampshire Congresswoman (Carol Shea-Porter) ask for an
aisle seat so that her hair wouldn\'t get messed up by being near the
window. (On an airplane!)
2. I got a call from a Kansas Congressman\'s (Moore) staffer (Howard
Bauleke), who wanted to go to Cape Town . I started to explain the
length of the flight and the passport information, and then he
interrupted me with, \'\'I\'m not trying to make you look stupid, but
Cape Town is in Massachusetts ..\'\'
Without trying to make him look stupid, I calmly explained, \'\'Cape Cod
is in Massachusetts , Cape Town is in South Africa ...\'\'
His response -- click..
3. A senior Vermont Congressman (Bernie Sanders) called, furious about
a Florida package we did. I asked what was wrong with the vacation in
Orlando . He said he was expecting an ocean-view room. I tried to
explain that\'s not possible, since Orlando is in the middle of the
state.
He replied, \'Don\'t lie to me!, I looked on the map, and Florida is a
very THIN state!!\'\' (OMG)
4. I got a call from a lawmaker\'s wife (Landra Reid) who asked, \'\'Is
it possible to see England from Canada ?\'\'
I said, \'\'No.\'\'
She said, \'\'But they look so close on the map\'\' (OMG, again!)
5. An aide for a cabinet member (Janet Napolitano) once called and
asked if he could rent a car in Dallas .. I pulled up the reservation
and noticed he had only a 1-hour layover in Dallas ... When I asked
him why he wanted to rent a car, he said, \'\'I heard Dallas was a big
airport, and we will need a car to drive between gates to save time.\'\'
(Aghhhh)
6. An Illinois Congresswoman (Jan Schakowsky) called last week. She
needed to know how it was possible that her flight from Detroit left
at 8:30 a.m., and got to Chicago at 8:33 a.m.
I explained that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but she
couldn\'t understand the concept of time zones. Finally, I told her the
plane went fast, and she bought that.
7. A New York lawmaker, (Jerrold Nadler) called and asked, \'\'Do
airlines put your physical description on your bag so they know whose
luggage belongs to whom?\'\' I said, \'No, why do you ask?\'
He replied, \'\'Well, when I checked in with the airline, they put a tag
on my luggage that said “FAT”, and I\'m overweight. I think that\'s very
rude!\'\'
After putting him on hold for a minute, I looked into it. (I was dying
laughing). I came back and explained the city code for Fresno , Ca. Is
(FAT - Fresno Air Terminal), and the airline was just putting a
destination tag on his luggage..
8. A Senator John Kerry aide (Lindsay Ross) called to inquire about a
trip package to Hawaii .. After going over all the cost info, she
asked, \'\'Would it be cheaper to fly to California and then take the
train to Hawaii ?\'\'
9. I just got off the phone with a freshman Congressman, Bobby Bright
from Ala. Who asked, \'\'How do I know which plane to get on?\'\'
I asked him what exactly he meant, to which he replied, \'\'I was told
my flight number is 823, but none of these planes have numbers on
them.\'\'
10 Senator Dianne Feinstein called and said, \'\'I need to fly to
Pepsi-Cola , Florida . Do I have to get on one of those little
computer planes?\'\'
I asked if she meant fly to Pensacola and fly on a commuter plane.
She said, \'\'Yeah, whatever, smarty!\'\'
11 Mary Landrieu, La. Senator, called and had a question about the
documents she needed in order to fly to China . After a lengthy
discussion about passports, I reminded her that she needed a visa.
\"Oh, no I don\'t. I\'ve been to China many times and never had to have
one of those.\'\'
I double checked and sure enough, her stay required a visa. When I
told her this she said, \'\'Look, I\'ve been to China four times and
every time they have accepted my American Express!\'\'
12 A New Jersey Congressman (John Adler) called to make reservations,
\'\'I want to go from Chicago to Rhino, New York .\'\'
I was at a loss for words. Finally, I said, \'\'Are you sure that\'s the
name of the town?\'\'
\'Yes, what flights do you have?\'\' replied the man.
After some searching, I came back with, \'\'I\'m sorry, sir, I\'ve looked
up every airport code in the country and can\'t find a rhino anywhere.\"
\'\'The man retorted, \'\'Oh, don\'t be silly! Everyone knows where it is.
Check your map!\'\'
So I scoured a map of the state of New York and finally offered, \'\'You
don\'t mean Buffalo , do you?\'\'
The reply? \'\'Whatever! I knew it was a big animal.\'\'
Now you know why the Government is in the shape it\'s in!
Could ANYONE be this DUMB?
YES, THEY WALK AMONG US, ARE IN POLITICS, AND THEY CONTINUE TO BREED.
I don\'t write it, I just offer it for your consideration. Like manure, you just gotta spread it around.
...........there\'s one born every day
\"WORK HARDER - Millions On Welfare Depend On You!. \"
\"You know you\'re old if your walker has an airbag.\"
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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CORPORALS AND AIRMENS MESS NEW SARUM
CORPORALS AND AIRMENS MESS NEW SARUM
By Brian Goodwin.
I am attaching a very old picture taken in the Corporals and Airmens Mess sometime between Aug 1958 and early 1960. I can put names to most (as many were RAF secondment like me) but two faces beat me.
SEE PHOTOGRAPH
Front left -Me (Brian Goodwin) (RAF secondment this time round!)
Immediately behind me is Wally Hopton (RAF)
Rear far left - He was the father of a very young RRAF storeman? but their names escape me.
To the right of Wally Hopton is Roger, \"Sparrow\", Crowe (RAF)
In front of Sparrow is Dave Woodward RRAF ( Face in pint of beer as usual)
Next is \"Ginge\" Scatchard , RRAF, Later commissioned.
Next Roy Mellor (RAF)
Far Right is another RAF secondment, I think his name was Dave something but not sure.
Don\'t remember what the occasion was but all wearing collar and tie.
End of Newsletter
Thanks to Brian for sharing his memories with ORAFs.
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
↧
Gwelo Billycarts
By Darryl and Maureen Burlin (RhAF)
A couple of photos from the Gwelo days. This was the first and last Billycart Derby, organised by 4th Gwelo Air Scouts and Cubs.
It was in the winter around about 1977/78.
Photograph 1
Who was the Scout District Commissioner who had to test the hill out ?
Photograph 2
Who was the Scoutmaster on the side, and who is the lady pushing the first cart, and can anybody recognise the other children ?
Give up ? Well the Gwelo Times published the photos and the heading was - \"You can teach an Old Dog new tricks!!!!\"
Cheers,
Darryl and Maureen
PS The answers will be published later .......................!
Replies to Darryl and Maureen on ndege1@dodo.com.au
Thanks to Darryl and Maureen for sharing their memories with ORAFs
End
Rhodesian Airr Force, ORAFs
↧
Alan Dewsbury
PASSING OF ALAN DEWSBURY MFC (Non Op)
Alan (A.G.E.) Dewsbury passed away suddenly last evening, January 07 2014, here at Umdoni Retirement Village, Pennington, Natal, South Africa
Funeral details will be notified at a later date
Messages of condolence, for his wife Ellen and Family, can be sent to me at pwooli@xsinet.co.za
Pete Woolcock
039 975 9651
Alan was a direct entry member having attested in 1953 and held a number of different roles, Air and Wireless Fitter/Security Int/General Service Unit
ORAFs records its sympathy to Ellen and family.
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
Thanks to Peter for sharing this information with ORAFs
↧
Ian Henderson and the US Marines
By Mike Norton
Found this photograph from 2001
SEE PHOTOGRAPH
Rear, Flight Lieutenant Ian Henderson (late) front row right Master Sergeant Rob Swietzer, US Marine Corps, other two also US Marines but can’t remember the names.
Ian was also a guide and took the Marines on a 4 day Yomp and nearly killed them in the valley heat, was in January.
You welcome to put it out on ORAFS
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ian attested with 30 PTC in March 1976 and gained his wings on August 26, 1977 and they paid Britt Ekland a visit during their training
Further Reading
http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=204657&comments=1
http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=322360#370525
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Aircraft Spotting
By Ian Johnston
Doing a bit of a family history and the attached photograph is of my late father who is standing on the right of the photo.
SEE PHOTOGRAPH
I know he arrived in Rhodesia in 1946/7 and I am trying to find out whether this is indeed a shot of his arrival.
In other words can anyone identify the aircraft or indeed the airline.
End of Newsletter
If you can assist Ian - please contact him direct on valj@mindsmail.co.za
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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CORPORALS AND AIRMENS MESS NEW SARUM Sensitive viewing
By Graham Preuveneers
Two more photographs of the Corporals Mess at New Sarum, circa early 1970’s.
(Sorry about the poor quality)
End of Newsletter
Thanks to Graham for sharing his memories with ORAFs.
Comments are always welcome - please send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
To view this article on line please visit the link or click on any of the images above.
I trust there will be no adverse feelings regarding the poster in the one photograph - please remember this was a Mess.
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
↧
Jim Light
It is with very heavy hearts that we tell you that our dad Jim Light passed away last night.
We would like to thank everyone for all the support, messages and prayers during dad\'s illness.
Love Debbie and Sarge (Ian) Light
End
Thanks to Roland Charles and Ron Jarman for sharing this information with ORAFs.
Jim was a direct entry airframe fitter, very active on the sporting front.
He had been waiting for a liver transplant.
↧
Newsletter
Stephen Rhynas KIA WW 2
Rogues Gallery
32 LAR 40th ANNIVERSARY - JANUARY 28
Bill Watt (RhAF) Writes:-
Had a thought recently and chatted to a couple of fellow 32 LAR (attested January 28, 1974) guys and we are keen to set up some sought of a get together for those interested . Please could you post something on ORAFs news letter to see if there is any response.
Please view http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=379088#481806 for Course photograph
GWELO BILLYCARTS
Darryl and Maureen Burlin Write:-
1- The DC was Darryl Burlin.
2- The Scout Master was Nigel Lewis-Walker.
We believe the lady was Wendy Charles.
The boys in the carts were Wendy and Roland\'s two boys and the young
lad pushing one cart was Robert Burlin.
Cannot remember anybody else !!!!
Rob Sweeting (RhAF) Writes:-
Lady looks like Wendy Charles
Bob Hattle ex WO i/c Instrument Section, Thornhill Writes:-
I am pretty sure the Scoutmaster is Nigel Lewis-Walker. My son Gary was in the Air Scouts Troup.
I recall the term Soapbox Derby being used in my youth but that was a long time ago!
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122465&comments=1
CHARLES KEANLY (RHAF) UPDATE
Could you advise as to where one can obtain the book , Chopper Tech, author Beaver Shaw?
Looking for contact Address of Sonny Roeloffzer, Auto Election Mt Section. left as Master Tech. He left Zim and went to Pinetown Natal a number of years ago .
My email is keanly@mango.zw if anybody can help with the above.
REMINDERS FROM RHODESIA - JANUARY 11 1966
Terry Bennett has advised that on the said date he flew with Squadron Leader Stevenson and therefore the notification of the crash with Roger Brackley is incorrect. Please delete the record.
HEINKEL He64 AIRCRAFT
I am researching about the famous Heinkel He64-aircraft, which I intend to rebuild in flight worthy condition. As a matter of fact, the most information available are about the one which Mr. Perrem acquired after it has been test flown for Handley Page.
Now, I am looking for some more information and would like to know where the Perrem-family moved to after leaving Umtali. Do you have any information where to search? According to an article, there was a daughter born in 1936, which I
If you can assist please contact Captain Mildenberger direct on tmildenberger@netcologne.de
SOUTH AFRICAN VOTERS
To find out if you\'re registered to vote, where your voting station is and who your candidates are, please visit the link below
https://www.elections.org.za/content/For-voters/My-voter-registration-details/
For your registration status and voting station details, you can also SMS your ID Number to 32810 (R1.00 per SMS) or call 0800 11 8000 (toll-free from a land line) between 8am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
CORPORALS AND AIRMENS MESS NEW SARUM August 1958 - 1960
Pete Jones (RhAF) Writes:-
I’m fairly sure the civilian at the rear left is Calvin Bond, father of Davy Bond
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122458&comments=1
Colin Bond (RhAF) Writes:-
I\'m in the UK at present visiting my brother David who is in East Surrey hospital where he has been for the last two months or more. After getting over various other ailments he is battling pneumonia right now, but the docs say that he should be over it before too long.
Just showed him the picture, and at first he didn\'t think it was our dad, but after putting on his glasses he looked again and agreed with me that yes, it could very well be our father.
I realize that it\'s not definite Ed, but we\'re 99% sure.
Brian Goodwin Writes:-
The following from my old mate Chris Lovett who was also a secondment at that time.
Hi Brian
only one to emerge from the cobwebs is Dave (on the right) Foster. Last seen late 60s,
Vulcan crew chief at Scampton.
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122458&comments=1
SOUTHERN RHODESIAN STAMPS
Nick Baalbergen (INTAF) Writes:-
Yes and remember how our passports were only recognised by Portugal and Spain (I think). I seem to remember Rio in Brazil was also a destination for Rhodesian passport holders. Most \'Brits\' of course had the benefit of \'dual nationality\' (not an option available to most of us) and never had to face the humiliation of being \'held\' by immigration, on arrival in Europe!
George Galbraith (RhArmy) Writes:-
It is a sad indictment on the British Government that it stooped to the petty punishment of Rhodesian and British families and friends, who, as depicted in the above article, were subjected to double payment of postage during the Rhodesian/British hiatus.
Add to this the treatment that it subsequently meted out to the families of a people who voluntarily sacrificed much, including their lives in droves during the two World Wars, as well as other wars out of their sense of loyalty to the British Commonwealth.
What I speak of here is the manner in which the British Government financially speaking, washed its hands of the people in the most vulnerable stage of their lives, many of whom died in penury because it stood by as its choice of government deliberately trashed their pension rights. This is a matter of human rights and not principle.
The Lancaster House Agreement made provision for the British Government to sponsor an orderly land reform policy. After the first tranche of these payments was misappropriated by Mugabe, Britain halted further payments and rightly so. But it should have then made provision to channel assistance to Rhodesians/Zimbabweans who were systematically deprived of their human rights directly arising out of the dispensation over which it presided.
No amount of trying to explain this away can ever assuage the suffering of huge numbers of these fine, brave people. Could it be that British intransigence in this regard is a reflection of its apathy born out of a retributive mentality? Perhaps legal responsibility needs to be tested.
Pete Simmonds (RhAF) Writes:-
I remember well the time that the British Govt decided to put a surcharge on all Rhodesian mail entering Britain.
I was a teenager then and used a bit of pocket money to fill a few envelopes with a note in each using a single four letter word that began with a P and ended with a t. I then addressed each envelope to Mr. H Wilson at 10 Downing St , London and stuck a nice new 25 cent stamp on top of the address before posting each letter.
Please tell Marcus that thousands of Rhodesians did the same and letters like mine began turning up with great regularity at the offices of many political leaders in Britain until the surcharge was eventually done away with.
Mike Hamence (RhAF) Writes:-
I found a similar envelope from my wife in Gwelo to my mother in Cambridge UK. Sold it to a Uk stamp collector a couple of years ago for, I think, 20.
Philip Clarke (RhAF) Writes:-
Just seen the postage dues on the airmail to your Gran. I have a number of these as I collect Rhodesian stamps and memorabilia as I’m trying to build some postal history for possible publication one day if I’m clever enough. You may see this sort of thing from time to time on E-bay.
You say you have a number of such examples. I note this was posted from Hatfield on 5th May 1970 I would be most interested to know other dates if you are able to decipher them and possible routing to UK.
I am particularly interested in mail that went out via Umtali via Mozambique, it seems that not much research had been done in this area especially early mail, most of it going via Byo in those days.
Should you wish to dispose of these letters I may be interested in taking them off your hands, think of a number and let me know.
I would be particularly interested in any family history that covered that period (not personal of course but who and where and why etc).
FYI my wife and I are both ex Rhod/Zim’s ex Harare although we lived in Umtali (1970 -1981) both my children were born there, I’m ex 104 Umtali Sqdn hence my interest in that particular part of the world. I now live on a hill in the middle of mud island (the dry bit) and confess to being comfortable, fishing lousy but hey one can’t have everything.
Refer http://rhodesianheritage.blogspot.com/2014/01/southern-rhodesian-stamps-to-uk-1970.html
AIRCRAFT SPOTTING
Mike Saunders (RhAF) Writes:-
Almost certainly an Avro York of BOAC , a civil adaptation of the Lancaster
John Moore (RhArmy)
I suspect the aircraft is an Avro York, which was used on the London – Durban route by BOAC from late 1946, taking over from the Short Sunderland. It carried from 50 – 56 passengers.
The York was based on the Lancaster bomber, using the undercarriage, wings, tail and engines of the bomber.
Hope this helps!
See http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122482&comments=1 for photograph of the aircraft John mentions.
Alan Evans Writes:-
As it is British registered, it could be a number of converted war time machines. My guess is a Halifax.
Bill Teague (SAAF and RCAF) Writes:-
It would be interesting to know if anybody has solved the ID of the aircraft depicted. Due to the very obvious square windows, which is highly unusual, the only type that seems to fit is the Shorts Skyvan.
Mike Saunders (RhAF) Writes:-
I was WRONG !! my son Bruce in Adelaide put me right, it was a B 24 Liberator but it was BOAC !
Jerry Boyd (RhAF) Writes:-
Great vintage photograph! The aircraft looks to be a Consolidated B-24 Liberator. A converted bomber, these were used by BOAC in the years immediately following the Second World War. This one is British registered (G-?Z) and is in a bare metal livery which fits with the BOAC colour scheme of the time. As far as I’m aware these were not commonly operated through Africa or to/from the Rhodesia’s but that doesn’t rule out the photo having been taken in Rhodesia since there will always be one-off aircraft substitutions and such like beyond the norm for operational and various other reasons, just as there are today.
That’s the best that I can do for now, hope it’s useful.
Marcus Main-Baillie (RhAF) Writes:-
Thanks for the puzzle !!!
The airline must be BOAC with the registration beginning “G” This I am quite sure !
The aircraft I find tricky but am convinced it’s a Liberator converted for BOAC use…….. but only 2 were given to BOAC and one was shot down. The other did the middle east/ Aus run.
But generally speaking more modern aircraft (pressurized) were used by BOAC post 1949/50.
Hope this helps, please give me feed back !!!
Bill Michie Writes:-
My best guess is:
BOAC Consolidated LB-30 Liberator; originally ordered by the RAF for North-Atlantic transport duties I believe. Looks like a tricycle undercarriage a/c, & wing/window pattern fits the LB-30. Used briefly post-war by BOAC and in Aus briefly, by Qantas (including a couple of G-registered ones).
Try that for now!
Refer http://www.ourstory.com/thread.html?t=1122482&comments=1
PHOTOGRAPHS OF NOTE
BZ\'s Chino\'s Planes of Fame
Photo Gallery - Visit http://home.comcast.net/~bzee1b/Chino/Chino.html
Compliments of Norman Frodsham
The Planes of Fame Air Show in Chino, CA was an excellent opportunity to get my fill of WWII vintage war birds. Many different types of fighters and bombers were flying for the show including: P-51s, P-40s, P-38s, F4Us, Zeros, Val, Spitfire, Hellcat, Wildcat, Firefly, Bearcat, Fury, B-25s, and a B-17. As a bonus, there was a WWII ground reenactment (complete with tanks and halftracks) which provided the icing on the cake!
The light was great for photography, but the heat at times was unbearable! It\'s only May, but Chino was well over 100 degrees F that day (someone said 110F). Using my camera was like putting a hot plate to my face! Even thinking about it makes me thirsty now. Good thing I escaped getting heat stroke.
Used a Nikon D200 and D50 w/ a 70-300mm VR lens, and 18-55mm lens. Prop planes shot in shutter priority exposure mode (mostly between 1/160 and 1/320sec), with continuous autofocus. The jet shots were around 1/1000sec.
Updated 7/18/08: Added additional information in the captions for the Corsairs from emails I received. - Bernard Zee
UNDELIVERABLE MAIL
Thanks to all that responded to my appeal for assistance on this matter. The guilty part is receiving email via his cellular phone but has set to automatically route the email to his PC.
By now we know the problem number 0825646112 so I would highly recommend he speak with his cell phone provider and establish a remedy - I would hate to get the scissors out and cut
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Cape) Monthly Braai
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Johnny Ness and or Tony Cowell for details
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday afternoon of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
Contact Cheryl Grover for details
AFA (Natal) Social
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Neville Mare (RhAF) for details
SMILE A WHILE
An old man goes to the Wizard to ask him if he can remove a curse he has been living with for the last 40 years.
The Wizard says, \'Maybe, but you will have to tell me the exact words that were used to put the curse on you.\'
The old man says without hesitation, \'I now pronounce you man and wife.\'
\"You can use the fanciest computers to gather the numbers, but in the end you have to set a timetable and act. .\"
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
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Newsletter
R.A. (Karate) Carruthers-Smith
Rogues Gallery
DAILY REMINDERS - January 14 1979
The record of the helicopter mid air collision reported as January 14, 1979 is incorrect. It should read January 02, 1979.Thanks To Frank Fynn for the correction.
REMINDERS
Thanks to Mike Borlace (RhAF) for advising that the record of the death of Ian Donaldson (RhAF) - Dave Hawkes and Rob Warracker S.C.R was not recorded for January 12.
Thanks Mike - matter resolved.
KOAS - R5170 MID AIR COLLISION
Pete Jones (RhAF) Writes:-
There was a third air force member killed in this crash. The Rhodesian Air Force Roll of Honour records him as Corporal Cutmore B.N. killed in R5701 – Actual day of month in doubt.
I was involved in the Committee of Adjustment for all three of the Air Force members who were killed in this accident, Kerry Fynn, Tony Turner and Brian Cutmore. I hadn’t realised that Brian was actually in the other aircraft until I looked up the ROH.
For interest, I have a large copper plaque on my living room wall. It was a wedding present from Tony Turner’s mother. It is a long time ago but I think her married name at the time was McPhee.
CHARLIE BUCHAN UPDATE
Charlie (RhAF) Writes:-
Now back home and known as the Underberg Bionic Man. Hope to get a part in the next Terminator Movie. The staff at Grey\'s government hospital were brilliant. Into the ward then theatre and back into the ward in 3 hours. Now the best part The head Cardiac Surgeon was Mr. Mugabi. Note the spelling. They nearly had to change the bedding on the Operating Table. Next day he asked me if I was a Zimbabwean or Rhodesian I answered Rhodie. He laughed and said I thought so because your chin hit your Kneecaps when I told you my name. Believe me the way I was looked after was incredible. One night in and sent home the next day. No one knows what happened as my pulse suddenly dropped to 25 per minute just crazy. Please pass on my thanks to all those who got in touch some from many years ago.
ROGUES GALLERY
Eddy Norris (ORAFs and RhAF) Writes:-
For a number of years the newsletter has been populated with an image of member of the RhAF - the well is now dry, and I have decided to use images of members of the RhArmy. Those that served in the Special forces will not be displayed if wearing their unit badge, this will not apply to those that have deceased.
There are a few units that have rejected, did not even acknowledge my appeal for Course photographs. Time will show that many of the images come from a group or course photo (an example is this weeks image.)
To those of you that have images of loved ones from WW1 and 2 are free to mail them to ORAFs for possible, all that I ask is that they are Rhodesian.
I accept and warn you that there will be errors - let me know of errors and I will see they are rectified, no lecture please.
Those from Internal affairs and BSAP are also welcome to submit images - we served the same Flag, didn\'t we
GUINEA FOWL HEADMASTER
Danny Hartman (RhArmy) Writes:-
Peter Bantock was a legend at Prince Edward. A great teacher and rugby coach. I have recently made contact with him and he has just come up with this request. I have never heard of him and think you are the only person that might be able to help
Letter Danny received reads:-
Hi Danny. Googling trying to find information on “Benkenstein” who was Headmaster of Guinea Fowl in the 1960’s the extract below was found. Do you by any chance know of Benkenstein
(I wonder if the cricketing Bekensteins are relations? Eddy Norris)
Replies direct to Danny on eileendanny@xtra.co.nz
WHAT TREE IS THAT
Lee Davies records thanks to all that replied to the question as to the type of tree he recalled from Rhodesia
HALTON
Peter Charles Langton Writes:-
I note that in your notable events emails you have mentioned the 97th, 100th and 103 entries at Halton - not surprising as there were Rhodesian Air Force apprentices. For information I was in the 106, which started on 15 Jan 1964, and was the last entry of Aircraft Apprentices. I joined as a 16 year old from Umtali as the last of a bunch of Commonwealth Apprentices (there were 4 of us, one from Malawi and two from Singapore).
(Peter - my intention is to and record events of the RhAF and Rhodesia - and for me they both remain the best of all. Eddy Norris)
PEARL HARBOR - AFTER THE TOURS HAVE GONE
John and Miranda Coutts recommend this YouTube
Pearl Harbor: after the tours have gone.
http://www.youtube.com/embed/MgE2KiPd3xg?feature=player_detailpage
The British Penny
Ken Salter (RhAF) Writes:-
Special notice to those living in, or planning on visiting UK.
EU Directive No. 456179
In order to bring about further integration with the Single European currency, all citizens of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland must be made aware that the phrase \'Spending a Penny\' is
not to be used after 31st December 2013.
From this date onwards, the correct terminology will be:
\'Euronating\'.
Thank you for your attention
CAT 5 CANBERRA (REMINDERS JANUARY 11)
Mike Hamence Writes:-
My records show that Canberra RRAF 208 (it became 2085 during that mystery of mysteries the renumbering exercise in March \'68), was scrapped due to fuselage center section forging failure in July \'78.
The front fuselage went to SA and was fitted to SAAF TMk4 tail no. 457, giving them \"extra bombing capability\". (Quoting Paddy Morgan.)
When the SAAF Canberra B12s were sold to Chile, \'457\' was put on display at AFB Zwartkop.
Perhaps one of the \'Northern SA\' readers has seen it recently?
THE SOLDIER\'S BURDEN - BRITISH SOUTH AFRICA POLICE
The Special Reserve Companies of the BSAP
Southern Rhodesia responds to German aggression on the Northern Rhodesia border
Available military manpower in Southern Rhodesia
In 1914 population estimates for the colony were 750,000 Africans and between 30,000 and 35,000 Europeans.) The Company was not permitted to raise an army but it had developed a force titled the British South Africa Police (BSAP) which used mounted policemen to patrol rural areas. The BSAP was armed with 20 machine guns and an artillery section and could undertake military operations against tribal dissidents; the overall strength in 1915 was 1,150 men of whom around 550 were Europeans, the remainder being African policemen of the British South Africa Native Police (BSANP). A European Reserve, the Southern Rhodesia Volunteers, was formed with an effective strength of over 850 men.
Visit http://www.kaiserscross.com/188001/366822.html for a great read on this exercise.
AVIATION HISTORY BUFFS
Recommended by Dave Hume (RRAF)
A great restoration and flight.
Over 4 years of work into 4+ minutes of splendid movie making
A brilliant restoration of a Seafire. What a magnificent plane.
Click here:
http://www.youtube.com/v/TneYPcyGbbY&autoplay=1&rel=0
REMINDERS
Grand Get-Together in Cape Town in February 2014
Time is getting short - let John and Tony know if your coming or not.
AFA (Cape) Monthly Braai
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Johnny Ness and or Tony Cowell for details
AFA (Gauteng) Monthly Prayer Meeting
First Saturday afternoon of the month at Dickie Fritz Shellhole.
Contact Cheryl Grover for details
AFA (Natal) Social
First Friday evening of each month.
Contact Neville Mare (RhAF) for details
SMILE A WHILE
Paddy calls Easyjet to book a flight.
The operator asks \"How many people are flying with you?\"
Paddy replies \"I don\'t know! It\'s your bloody plane!\"
\"Outside a Car Exhaust Store:
\"No appointment necessary. We heard you coming.\"
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
↧
Alouette at Sundown at Mana Pools
Marcus Main-Baillie (RhAF) Writes:-
Loved the article \"African Sunsets\" sure to upset those not here.
Thought you would like this sunset taken at Mana Pools !
See Photograph 1
John Britton (RhAF reporter from Antarctica)
Sent in this photograph of his world at present.
He writes:-
As beautiful a day as it looks it is a cold day.
See Photograph 2
End
John as we know also spent a bit of time (?) on 7 Squadron and as such would have seen Mana many times - I wonder which f these places he prefers?
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Thanks to Marcus and John for sharing these wonderful photographs with ORAFs.
Ref. Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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Refuelling The Alouette 3
By Geoff Dartnall
1. In the beginning there was wobble pumps. Reliable, but slow, heavy and hard work. Pumping in 2 or 3 hundred litres built muscles (ask Brian Warren) but kept the aircraft grounded for far too long.
2. Next was the brilliant idea from PB. Bleed off air from the engine, pressurise the drum and fuel flowed effortlessly from drum to aircraft. The Technicians loved it. However, the noise, safety considerations and cost of engine hours consigned it to an early grave.
3. Now came what most people probably considered was “the final solution”, the 2 stroke powered portable pump. At first glance not particularly attractive. Noisy, heavy (+/- 25kgs?), meant carrying petrol on board, had a very hot exhaust after use that dug into your thigh if carelessly lifted. (I bear the scar) and needed more maintenance time than the Artouste. However, for all its faults, if looked after it was reliable and quick.
4. Finally, a genius somewhere in the Air Force discovered and recognised the potential of, a 24volt pump. Small, +/- 300mm X 150mm X 100mm, light and bolted to the airframe, needing only the stack pipe and suction and delivery hoses and, for all intents and purposes, silent, it was a Technicians dream.
My question is – who was the genius?
Geoff Dartnall
End of Newsletter
Comments are always welcome - send them to Eddy Norris at orafs11@gmail.com
Alouette is the French word for a lark.
Ref Rhodesian Air Force, ORAFs
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