Parts of the Simon’s Town Naval Base will be renamed after the three submariners who recently lost their lives during a routine training exercise at sea.
Also read: Joint memorial service scheduled for deceased navy officers
On 20 September, 33-year-old Lieutenant-Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, 48-year-old Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa and 43-year-old Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela were swept off the SAS Manthatisi submarine in Kommetjie after a powerful wave struck the vessel.
Hundreds of family members, colleagues and friends paid tribute to the mariners in a memorial service held at the Wynberg Military Indoor Sports Centre on Wednesday. According to News24, Navy Chief Vice Admiral Monde Lobese announced during the service that three main sections of the Simon’s Town Naval Base will be renamed in honour of the sailors.
These are the sections that will be renamed:
- The Submarine Training Centre will be renamed the Gillian Hector Training Centre
- The Submarine Squadron Building (also known as the Orca Building) will be renamed the Mmokwapa Mojela Building
- The Submarine Battery Workshop will be renamed the William Mathipa Workshop
‘They were always ready to offer assistance,’ says Lobese. ‘The country, as a whole, has been robbed of true patriots. My last words to them were to wish them farewell as they prepared to go to the navy festival at the Waterfront.’
Lobese called the remaining crew members who were aboard the submarine. ‘These men standing here before us displayed [bravery] in trying to save those that went overboard. When I heard of the tragic incident, I tried to get a flight back to Cape Town as soon as possible, but I unfortunately could not secure a flight.’
‘I think it is as clear as daylight that these members were highly experienced and highly qualified members of the elite submarine squadron. The loss suffered by the SA Navy’s submarine squadron is great.’
‘Not only have we lost qualified specialists who have served their country with pride and diligence, but the loss of experience and competence will be felt for many years to come. Although this loss is great, it pales in comparison to the loss of the families who have [lost loved ones].’
Also read:
Navy chief upholds exceptional team, attributes tragedy to natural forces
Picture: @SANDF_ZA / X