Fährt Heim Nach Südafrika - Going home to South Africa.

Article and photos by LS V.D. Maleka

Introduction

The crewmembers of the second South African Navy submarine S102 have been deployed in Germany from September 2006. On Friday, 16 March 2007 they will set sail back home to South Africa. As they draw closer to the last days of their stay in Germany, there is much elation and high morale amongst the crewmembers. The reason for this is that in a few days time they will be on their way back home. Like the saying goes, “there is no place like home”.

We took some time and spoke to some of the crewmembers just to find out what their feelings are about going back home.

CPO H.R. Grove, who works at the Operations room, said that when he volunteered to be a member of S102 his wife was pregnant with their first child. His wife knew about his passion and love for the Navy and regretfully allowed him to leave, thereby sacrificing her husband’s support at the birth of their first child. “For me that was the greatest sacrifice, but also my daily motivation. What also kept me focused was the thought of seeing my son, who is now three weeks old, for the first time, I truly can’t wait to see these two most precious people in my life” he said.
 

One of the Mechanical Engineers, Lt L.A. Letsholo, said what he missed most about South Africa is the laughter of the people and their instant friendliness. He absolutely loves soccer and is a great fan of Sundowns football club, whom he likes to call “The South African Brazilians”. He is an outgoing person and misses socializing and get-togethers having a good old South African braai with pap, boerewors, chops, chicken and course some (South African!) beer.
 

The chef on board S102, PO C. Mthethwa, noticed that there is not really a choice of good spices in Germany. He said when he arrives home he will prepare the most exquisite meal for his family. He said the dinner will give him and his family the opportunity to spend some quality time together because, everyone is present at dinner and it is the best place for conversation and bonding for families.
 

CPO R.T. Williams says the one thing he is looking forward to seeing is the sun, and South Africa’s sunny weather. He is from the Mother City, Cape Town, and says he absolutely misses the view of Table Mountain. His house is situated near the beach and has a view of Seal Island close to Simon’s Town.

 

CPO G.A. Soobrramoney, the telegrapher of S102, says he cannot wait to see his 9 year old son, Robbin. He said he has the most adorable smile and what he misses most is going to the beach together with him on Sundays for a swim. He said sometimes he accompanies him to his Karate classes and just loves the way he shows off his tricks just because ‘daddy’ is around.

 

When asked if he is ready for the trip home Cpl P.K. Ramokgari, the Operations Medic onboard said “definitely”. He said the training they received in Germany prepared them and they will confidently sail S102 home. “As crewmembers we have become a close family and having their company and friendship will make the trip enjoyable. Though the trip will be long, what awaits us on the other side is far more rewarding, seeing family, loved ones and of course the anticipated tremendous welcome we will receive from our proud fellow South Africans” he added.
 

The members of the Operations Room are thrilled to be going back home...
 

The Mechanical Engineers are all with smiles because they are going back home.
 

The Electrical Engineers can't wait to go home and be received with pride by their country's people...

Conclusion

As excited as the crew is to come back home, we in South Africa eagerly await their arrival in Simon’s Town in April. We wish the crew fair winds and a safe voyage back home to South Africa, “Mzanzi”.

Re le emetse, we are waiting for you…