31st August 2006
CEREMONY 30TH AUGUST 2006
On the 30th August 2006, we gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of the death of S Sgt Daniel Roxo HC, S Sgt Ponciano Soeiro, and Sgt Robbie Ribeiro, by paying tribute at their final resting place.
Genl Du Preez, Genl Greef, Genl Swart, WOI Pearce representing the Infantry association, Col Van der Walt representing the 32Bn association, Carla Ribeiro (daugther of Robbie Ribeiro), Mrs (Maj) Erna da Costa (Widow of S Sgt Mourão da Costa), colleagues of the Special Forces League, 32 Bn association, Parabat regiments, and members of the Portuguese community honoured us with their presence.
Genl Swart paid a moving tribute to our fallen comrades, and handed over to Carla Ribeiro, her father's Operator Badge and medals, as well S Sgt Mourão da Costa Operators badge to Mrs da Costa.
S Sgt Roxo HC Operators Badge, will be handed over to the family in Portugal. S Sgt Soeiro's medals and Operators badge will be kept in the Special Forces museum, until the family can be traced.
Wreaths were laid by WOI Pearce on behalf of the Infantry association, Maj W van Deventer on behalf of the Special Forces League, Genl K Greef on behalf of 32 Bn association, WOI K Moorcroft on behalf of Pretoria Moth, Manuel Ferreira, Paul Els and Stephen Dunkley on behalf of family and friends.
Col Allen Young read the citations, and WOI Koos Moorcroft the Moth prayer.
Ds George Hugo was again our master of ceremony.
Flowers were also laid at graves of Special Forces, 32 Bn, and Parabat regiment soldiers.
Its our intention to make this homage a yearly event every August.
Our profound gratitude to all who helped, and that with their presence made it such a special day, especially for the family members.
Woensdag was regtig 'n betekenisvolle dag vir ons almal en ook emosioneel vir familie en vriende.
WELCOME AND THANK YOU BY MANUEL FERREIRA
PRESS REPORTS ABOUT OUR CEREMONY
Published: 7 September 2006.
