Home sweet home. Article by S Lt Khasuli Photos by LS Venter

The morale onboard both vessels, SAS DRAKENSBERG and SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE is extremely high because we are now in the final stage of the passage home. This is the ideal time to reflect back and highlight the successes and the challenges of the deployment. Not many challenges were experienced that jeopardized the aim of the deployment. The OC, Capt Charl Coetzee was able to respond positively to challenges that occurred and he made himself available to answer any uncertainties. During the early days of the deployment he made everyone to feel at ease and enjoy the deployment as the deployment was lengthy and "you only get the best out of the person when he/she is happy".

OPERATION SIYAKHULA Ship's Company.

The successes achieved during the deployment are varied but one that can be highlighted is the empowerment of the MSD students with practical, theoretical skills and knowledge which will enable them to conquer any challenges cropping up in the private sector should they not get their contracts renewed.

All MSD onboard DKB.

"To be onboard SAS DRAKENSBERG whilst escorting SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE to SA marks the highlight of my career because when I joined the Navy I never thought I will acquire so much exposure within a period of 16 months. Within a period of 4 months I've been to Mozambique, Namibia, Angola, France, Germany and Spain. This achievement really makes me happy because its an experience that I'll always cherish, I can now proudly say indeed that the Navy is not only a career but an adventure," stated an elated Sea Matsolo.

On Sunday 22 Apr, SAS DRAKENSBERG detached from SAS CHARLOTTE MAXEKE, leaving her behind so that SAS DRAKENSBERG can be alongside as scheduled. On the same day, both vessels were passing off the coast of Namibia approaching South African waters. As a matter of interest, SAS DRAKENSBERG will be alongside on exactly the same day that she was launched 21 years ago on the 24 April 1986, still going strong.