The sailors were getting hungry, so they ensured that the smell of food was directly coming from the deck below.  It was therefore impossible to turn the Captain down when he requested we join him and the rest of the VIPs for lunch.  In true Naval tradition, lunch was superb.  I could not help but think of a day somewhere in the shadows of the Swartberg, surrounded by dust and dirt, trying desperately to keep the flies out of my green beans.  Infantry just was not the same as the Navy. We rubbed shoulders with some of the highest ranking officers of the Navy.  Talking to them as if they were old friends.  It was clear that this was a professional outfit.  A group of men that would lead, rather than follow.  They spoke of tradition and the importance of a strong, active Navy.  It was sad when we were requested to wrap things up.

The flip back to Simonstown with the Oryx was an unplanned / unexpected treat.  We landed at 14H15. I can only say – a big “Thank You” to the Navy for the invite.

SAS Amatola performing an emergency stop.  350m from top speed to dead stop.  I have seen cars that can’t do that.

All photos: E. Kotze’ & C. Baxter. Top photo: E. Kotze’. Photo manipulation: A. Dyason

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