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FOREWORD BY CHIEF OF THE AIR FORCE: LT GEN R.J BEUKES SD, SM, MMM
History is not simply the placement of major historic moments in chronological order, it is a record of all that has past based on factual material as distinct from legend or supposition. What better way therefore is there to record history than by the publication of photographs - photographs that have captured a factual moment in time and space. History is being made every single day of our lives and it is only once a certain time has passed that we unfortunately realise that what originally appeared to be an everyday occurrence was in fact an historic moment. History is furthermore not restricted to military operations but also encompasses social and daily activities. Unfortunately historians are not always on hand to record these moments but the fact that they make up what is today the history of the SAAF is undeniable.
During the many years that 17 Squadron operated outside the borders of South Africa crews were unfortunately not permitted to have cameras in their possession. Some, however, did go against regulations and it is from these and other photographs that a pictorial history can be built. 17 Squadron has been involved in many rescues and civil support actions over the years and these too must be recorded for prosperity. A picture can often tell a better story than words and it is within this context that this book will find many an ardent reader.
As in all works of history the full story will only come fully to light once the subject has been researched numerous times, and various authors have applied themselves to the task. This book makes a very important start to what I hope will be continued by other authors. We cannot allow our history to be swallowed up by time and indifference. Every effort that is made to record what happened in the past builds upon our proud traditions.
The celebration in December 2002 of 45 years of 17 Squadron helicopter operations is an ideal opportunity to gather together whatever information might have slipped through our fingers and I encourage all members, past and serving, to assist 17 Squadron in this very important task. My thanks to the Officer Commanding and the Honorary Colonel of 17 Squadron for the initiative displayed in the production of this book.
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