The talk by Colonel Albertus Wynand "Ivan" Bester on 13th October was another first-rate example of personal reminiscences of service in a prominent regiment recalled. It was a lively, detailed and humorous presentation enjoyed by everyone, and the many memorabilia of newspaper cuttings, books and photographs added to this. The Scribe only regrets that he is unable to review the talk in full and express his sincere apologies due to time constraints. He promises to include it in the Newsletter for January 2006 together with a review of Tony Gordon's talk and his tour of the Blaauwberg battlefield.
Future Lectures:
10th November
THE BATTLE OF BLAAUWBERG, 18th January 1806
A detailed, illustrated talk by Major Tony Gordon.
This battle, although insignificant as far as Napoleonic wars were concerned,
must be considered a watershed in the occupation of the Cape when it
changed from Batavian to British rule. The long-term results were enormous.
Tony will conduct a Tour of the area on the following Saturday, 12th November, at 10 a.m. which starts at the BCA base office at EERSTESTEEN. Members will then drive 4 km to Melkbosstrand and afterwards to the top of Blaauwberg Hill for a wonderful view and a BYO picnic lunch.
Tony's telephone number is 021-671-4502.
19th January 2006 - THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH.
SA AND BRITISH CAMPAIGN MEDALS FROM WW I AND WW II
An illustrated talk with medal displays
Speaker: Commander W.M. "Mac" Bissett
We regret to inform members of the sudden death of fellow member J.M.J. "Mike" Leach. Mike was also Secretary of the Burma Star Association, a position he liked very much and filled with great enthusiasm. Combining efficiency with great humanity, as shown by his caring attitude to any member ill or in need of help, he even neglected his life-long work project on the History of the Bechuanaland Police. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and many friends.
We are again at the end of another year, and so it is time for:
THE CHAIRMAN AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS TO WISH EVERYONE OF OUR MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS, HEALTHY AND PEACEFUL NEW YEAR 2006!!
Meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month, except December, at 20h00 in the Recreation Room of the SA LEGION’S ROSEDALE COMPLEX, Lower Nursery Road (off Lisbeek Parkway/Alma Road - Traffic Light), opposite Rosebank Railway Station. Secure parking inside the premises. All visitors welcome. Tea and biscuits will be served.
Jochen (John) O.E.O. Mahncke, Vice-Chairman/Scribe,
Tel.: 021-797-5167
e-mail: koenigsberg@mweb.co.za