By Anna Shilongo
WINDHOEK
Minister of Defence Charles Namoloh has expressed satisfaction with the Namibian Air Force.
Namoloh said the air force has a proud history despite the fact that it was established only a few years ago.
“It has contributed immensely to the NDF operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, during hot pursuits against UNITA incursions into Namibia and in providing assistance to the civil communities in cases of emergencies,” said Namoloh.
However, he said, the force has lost some of its pioneer pilots who lost their lives in the line of duty while some were wounded.
“During the SADC operations in the DRC, our pilots managed to supply our elements of allied forces who were deployed at Ikela in the DRC under very difficult conditions. Despite the remoteness of Ikela and the persistent hostile fire from the enemy, our pilots under tested commanders managed to supply them continuously, and they deservingly were bestowed with merit awards.”
Namoloh narrated these gallant deeds by his officers and non-commissioned officers so that upcoming pilots who recently graduated could emulate their selfless services to their country.
“As airmen and women, you should expect to encounter similar challenges in the future and the nation expects you to face them with vigour and bravery. This is in the nature of the military life,” he said.
Thus, Namoloh said, behind every success, there is a capable commander and staff officer who command and direct the operation.
“As young airmen and women, you should be inspired by their hard work so that one day, you will be able to carry on where they left. The airworthiness of our planes will depend on your ability to put into practice the theories you have learned at the centre.”
The minister made these remarks during the graduation parade of the first group of Aircraft Maintenance Technicians from the Technical Training Centre last week Wednesday at Grootfontein. Twenty-four airmen and women graduated.
The centre, which was established in 2005, has plans to introduce IT programmes in future.