SAS SALDANHA January 2010 Graduation Parade Article by AB V.J. Perrin Photos by AB V.J. Perrin and Sea K. Makhubela

The graduation parade for the January 2010 MSDS intake took place on 20 August 2010 at SAS SALDANHA.  The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Dr Lindiwe Sisulu, officiated the parade.

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, welcomed by Chief of the Navy, V Adm J. Mudimu

The parade was preceded by a number of displays that was a fascinating showcase for those not familiar with Naval customs and traditions.  The ceremony commenced with the choir performing a few songs, followed by the Mast Display, which was performed by Mendi Division.  Amatola Division performed a splendid PT Display, followed by the Gun Run by Isandlwana Division. The SA Navy Marimba Band then performed whilst Spioenkop Division prepared to perform the Precision Drill which was followed by the Retreat Ceremony.

The Gun Run display performed by Isandlwana Division	The Mast Display performed by Mendi Division

After all the awe-inspiring displays were completed, the time approached for the main event, the actual Graduation Ceremony, which commenced when the Seamen marched onto the parade ground.

The following prizes were awarded:

07002348-MG Sea L. Lwana - Stickman (Smartest Sailor) - Mendi Division
03040946-MG Sea W. Mlungwana - Fittest Male on Course - Mendi Division
06011555-MG Sea M. Vermeulen - Fittest Female on Course - Mendi Division
04030318-MG Sea N. Mngane - Best Academic Sailor on Course - Mendi Division
04029658-MG Sea J. Pienaar - V Adm Mudimu Floating Trophy for Leadership - Spioenkop Division

The Parade Company saluting C Navy	The Parade Company
The Precision Drill performed by Spioenkop Division	The PT Display performed by Amatola Division

The following Divisions were rewarded for their hard work during training:

Best Messdeck - Mendi Division - 04030078-MG Sea T. Langfred
Best Division in Esprit De Corps - Amatola Division - 06011373-MG Sea J. October
Best Division in Sport - Mendi Division - 04030615-MG Sea J. Jager

The SAS SALDANHA Choir

Chief of the Navy congratulated the members on their success in his speech saying, "’I am proud that you have chosen this career path by volunteering your services to the South African Navy and for the sacrifice you are making to protect our country and people".