Tribute to an officer and a gentleman

MANY of you know Colonel Acutt as a good soldier, the best kind, loyal to his fellow soldiers and his country.

To me, my father is my biggest supporter and best critic. Everyone here will agree he has a prescence when he enters a room. Some say it’s his booming voice, others believe it’s his magnificent moustache.

Although my brother and I didn’t end up serving in the military, we were brought up in a military fashion, something I am grateful for.

In addition to his successful military career, he is also a successful business person. His years running the family business took its natural course when he handed me the reins a few years ago.

Although much has changed in Acutts over the past few years, the forward momentum left from his efforts and dedication made my role much easier to fulfil. I thank him for that every day.

My description would not be complete without a special mention of hunting career. He taught me everything I know about hunting, ethically and safe – yet another important life skill which I will be passing on to my son, Joshua.

I’ve learnt so much from this man. Some of the lessons we were taught I will never forget

The first was rough but ready. Taken from the NMR, from which I took, always be ready to take on your enemy.

Secondly, If the enemy is in range, so are you. This for me has a modern reminder that it may make sense to fire on your enemies, but in doing so remember that enemies can also fire back.

And, I know of men in the ranks who will stay in the ranks, simply because they do not possess the ability to get things done. I use this as a daily mantra, especially when everyone is standing around staring at a problem. It takes a leader to pick up the spade and just start digging.

A place for everything, and everything in its place. Please put things back where they belong.

Lastly, my speech would not be complete without the favourite 7 Ps: proper prior planning prevents a piss poor performance. Rather plan something properly.

These lessons I will pass on to my children, not just because they are good lessons but because they were taught to my by my dad, an incredible man, and incredible soldier.