SA Army presents tokens of appreciation to journalists
SANDI KWON HOO SANDI.KWONHOO@ACM.CO.ZA
THE SOUTH African Army bestowed tokens of appreciation to DFA journalists this week, for ensuring that decorated World War II veteran Oupa William Peter “Soldaat” van Wyk was given the recognition he deserved for selflessly serving his country.
Van Wyk was born in Beaconsfield in Kimberley on June 9, 1922, and was recognised by the SANDF as the oldest WWII veteran in the country.
He passed away on February 28 at the age of 101 years and was buried last week.
Van Wyk’s plight first came to the attention of DFA journalist Boipelo Mere, as he was initially not recognised as a WWII veteran as he was a member of the Cape Coloured Corps when he served in the ex-servicemen’s legion in 1922.
Van Wyk served in various battles in Egypt and the Mediterranean and received the 1939/1945 Star, African Star, Italy Star, Defence Medal British, the War Medal (1939-1949) and the African Service Medal.
While covering the unveiling of the renovated Seoachoareng Old Age Home, DFA photographer Soraya Crowie and DFA reporter Benida Phillips “whispered” to the Chief of the SA Army, Lieutenant-general Lawrence Mbatha, during a visit to the city in October 2022, about how the unsung hero was living in appalling conditions.
Crowie stated that they had scribbled Van Wyk’s address on a piece of paper and stealthily snuck it into Mbatha’s jacket pocket.
“I didn’t expect much out of our interaction. I was pleasantly surprised when he followed through with his commitment to upgrade Oupa van Wyk’s house in a short space of time, so that he could enjoy his retirement in comfort. I am grateful that Oupa van Wyk finally had a home that he could be proud of,” said Crowie.
She added that she was overcome with emotion when she was invited to plant a rose bush at Van Wyk’s upgraded home in St Simons Street, Colville, when it was handed over to him on December 16, 2023.
“We tell the story of so many people and it is heartfelt to be acknowledged by someone of Mbatha’s stature and authority.”
Phillips said she was honoured to receive recognition for making a difference in the lives of the community.
“As a reporter, you never expect to make the news. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that Lieutenant-general Mbatha would take the initiative that he did, to upgrade Oupa Soldaat’s house. It was an honour to be invited as his special guests when the house was handed over.”
SA Army corporate communication officer Lieutenant-colonel Lisa Sipriano specially travelled to the city with her team from Pretoria to hand over the books to the two journalists this week.
“Only a select few individuals are in possession of these hardcover books, detailing Oupa van Wyk’s journey and the upgrading of Seochareng Old Age Home between 2022-23. Lieutenant-general Mbatha personally picks who gets to have a copy,” said Sipriano.
She added that she had informed DFA editor Johan du Plessis of the important role played by the DFA journalists.
“He was surprised and mused on how he was accustomed to hearing complaints, instead of receiving words of gratitude.”