There was not one sad face to be found during the annual AFB Makhado camp for disabled children that was held from 7 to 12 March.

This year’s camp marked its 24th year of existence and was presented by the base´s 515 Squadron at the Roodewal bombing range. The camp was attended by 80 children from six different schools. These included Con Amore (Kempton Park), Estralita (Lydenburg), Eureka (Vereeniging), New Horizon (Polokwane), Tshilwavhusiku (Sintumule) and Fhulufhelo Special School, situated in the Thohoyandou area.

This event is aimed at changing the lifestyle of the children by exposing them to military culture and showing them that they can do things for themselves. Before their experience of the military commenced, every student was issued with the standard blue SAAF overalls, after which they learnt how to put up their own tents.

And what would military life be without all the necessary training? At the crack of dawn, students had to get ready for tent inspection and physical training (PT). This included sit- and push-ups, jogging, drilling and marching. Even their teachers were recruited and participated with learners in all the activities.

The highlight of the entire camp was, however, on Thursday when students were whisked over the bombing range by 19 Squadron in an Oryx helicopter, but not before they had had a helicopter drill.

“I love the military culture of the Air Force and I’ve learnt a lot, including team work, as well as how to make a tent. If I can, I will come back next year,” said Klara from the Con Amore Special School afterwards.

The following sponsors played a pivotal role in the success of the camp and were thanked by the AFB Makhado: AMG, Coca-Cola Fortune (Louis Trichardt), Round Table Zoutpansberg 66, Leach Printers & Signs, Friends of the Air Force Base, Lianga Lodge, Limpopo Dairy, Dinnermates, Fruit & Veg Louis Trichardt, Pick ‘n Pay Louis Trichardt, Louis Trichardt Spar, Louis Trichardt Rotary Club, Louis Trichardt Spur, Caterpack and the National Office.