BEHIND THE SCENES

Did you know that South African women served in World War II as radar operators? Photojournalist Jac Kritzinger discovered more about their role in history (p 54).

What was the biggest challenge

writing this story? The lack of information. The activities of the radar operators were kept strictly confidential at the time, which resulted in very little official documentation. There’s also a political aspect. Because South Africa supported Britain during World War II, the Afrikaner nationalists who came to power a few years later cared little about preserving that aspect of history. And after 1994, our participation in the war became an obscure colonial anecdote.

What surprised you? I lived in Pringle Bay for years and was unaware of what had played out right under my nose 80-odd years ago. I was also surprised to learn that the bases where the women worked were guarded by the Native Military Corps, whose soldiers were only allowed traditional weapons. During a world war! It’s funny but also sad. Only in South Africa…

What happened behind the scenes? The wind nearly blew me off the cliffs on the Lighthouse Keeper’s Trail at Cape Point. I came away with a bleeding knee and a new-found respect for the southeaster. I had to stop the bleeding with my Buff, then wore it stained. I must have looked like a poor man’s Rambo when I returned to the parking area.

Were any of the places you visited damaged by the Pringle Bay fire in January 2024? The Hangklip Hotel suffered some minor damage to rooms and ablution facilities, which were being repaired at the time of going to print. Miraculously, given its location on the mountain, the Hangklip radar station survived unscathed.

Your next trip? My wife Leani and I are planning a holiday to Turkey. It’s a fascinating country with a mix of cultures and a rich history – and it’s surprisingly affordable.

What’s always in your travel bag? Earplugs and my own pillow – I get very grumpy when I don’t sleep well – and of course my Nikon Z5 camera.

Visit jackritzinger.com for more of his work.