Operation Restore the Glory
Restore the Glory is a proud initiative dedicated to honouring the legacy, courage, and brotherhood of South Africa's Veteran Paratroopers. Built on the values of service, sacrifice, and excellence, the initiative seeks to preserve the rich history and traditions of the Parachute Battalion while fostering camaraderie among veterans, supporting those in need, and inspiring future generations. Through remembrance, reunions, heritage projects, and community engagement, Restore the Glory ensures that the spirit of the South African Paratrooper continues to live on with the respect and recognition it deserves.
Restoration of the Outdoor Exit Training Tower.
April 2026
THE SOUTH AFRICAN PARATROOPER EXIT TRAINING TOWER:
“AAPKAS” Originally the W.P. Louw Exit Training Tower, named after Colonel W.P. Louw, founding Officer Commanding of 1 Parachute Battalion. Erected in 1961, this Tower became known as the “Aapkas”. From this platform, they mastered aircraft and exit drills.
Generations of South African Paratroopers HERE took their first step into the unknown - the moment separating the ordinary from the elite. HERE they began the journey toward the Paratrooper Wings and the Maroon Beret.
HERE they rehearsed parachute deployment and in-air procedures.
HERE discipline became instinct and courage became action. Between 1961 and 1986, more than 15,000 Paratroopers passed through the Aapkas.
In 2026, under OPERATION RESTORE THE GLORY, Paratrooper Veterans restored this Tower to honour those who trained here and to preserve this symbol of discipline, sacrifice, pride, and unity.
May this Tower stand as a tribute to all who stepped from its platform - a reminder that the honour of being called a Paratrooper is never given, but earned.
RESTORE THE GLORY OFFICIALLY UNVEILED: 30 APRIL 2026
Lieutenant General Lawrence Khulekani Mbatha | Chief of the South African Army Colonel Louiwian Henry Gordon | Officer Commanding: 44 Parachute Regiment Restoration Initiative & Project Leader Colonel (Hon) Raymond C. Kramer | SA Army Infantry Formation 44 Parachute Regiment Heritage Restoration Project
SECOND TO NONE | EX ALTO VINCIMUS AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY | ALL THE WAY AIRBORNE
BEFORE
AFTER
Operation Restore the Glory – Summary Statement
To my fellow Veterans,
Standing on the ground of our 65th Anniversary and the rededication of the upgraded AAPKAS Outdoor Exit Trainer moved me beyond words. Reaching a milestone when most military personnel retire, yet seeing so many dedicated paratroopers, both veterans and active members, united together affirms the eternal spirit of the Paratrooper.
The parade was flawless. Male and female Paratroopers marched and paraded with perfection in the downpour of rain. Their resolve and discipline were extraordinary. A huge compliment goes to all involved from 44 Parachute Regiment. Watching veterans in their 80s stride through the rain with dignity was humbling. The hangar displays were flawless, executed under tight budgets, and showcased our continued excellence to a global standard. With adequate resources our impact could be exponential. The food and hospitality afterward were exceptional. The Maroon Beret and our Wings must remain a respected and feared symbol of national readiness.
I received outstanding feedback from serving Paratroopers about the professionalism and respect displayed by our veterans. Unity and humility, core Parabat Heritage Foundation (PHF) values, shone brightly even without sunshine. I was personally very proud to witness such a momentous occasion in the history of our beloved unit. It was a historical and legendary day.
My deepest gratitude goes to the Chief of the Army, Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, whose decision to stand with his troops in the rain exemplified true leadership. His address in Afrikaans bridged generations and resonated with every man present. At the AAPKAS, Major General Zwelithini Viscount Ngcobo, GOC SA Army Infantry Formation, stood with the Chief of the Army in shared commitment to our airborne legacy.
We were honoured by the presence of senior leaders, including Lieutenant General Lawrence Mbatha, Major General Zwelithini Viscount Ngcobo, Major General Mashego, General Stroebel, and many Brigadier Generals, Colonels and Non Commissioned Officers. A huge thank you to all veterans of every rank, from Generals downwards, who made the effort to attend. The veterans behaved with the dignity, respect and discipline expected of a Paratrooper. Many were so impressed and proud of the day’s activities that some even shed a tear of proud emotion after all these years to witness such professionalism. I apologise if any names were omitted. My intent is solely to honour each contribution.
Special thanks to
Major General Zwelithini Viscount Ngcobo and Colonel Gordon, OC 44 Parachute Regiment, for envisioning this day, and to Colonel Gordon’s team, Lieutenant Colonel Biyela, Regimental PSM Jaza, and all officers, Non Commissioned Officers and troops.
Lieutenant Colonel Liphadzi, OC 1 Parachute Battalion, and his personnel for their tireless dedication.
My own team, whose personal sacrifices made this vision reality.
To all veterans, officers, Non Commissioned Officers and paratroopers who displayed the highest standards, you are the heart of this legacy. The camaraderie we witnessed proves that, despite the passage of time, the bond of the wings is unbreakable.
Thank you to the families who braved the cold and rain. Your silent support enables our service.
We honour those who could not be with us in person. They were with us in spirit. This is only the beginning. As part of Operation Restore the Glory, our next focus is the SA Paratrooper Museum Exhibition Association (SAPMEA), led by Lieutenant Colonel Steve Camp (Ret). We aim to open a world class exhibition at the Ditsong National Museum of Military History by 24 May 2026, with a documentary to showcase our legacy worldwide.
Let us carry the pride of our 65th anniversary into the next phases. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the parade, displays and the warm hospitality afterward. You have made this the most historic event ever.
Once a Paratrooper, always a Paratrooper.
SECOND TO NONE
EX ALTO VINCIMUS
Airborne All the Way
Restore the Glory
Respectfully,
Raymond C. Kramer
Colonel (Hon), SA Army Infantry Formation
CHAIRMAN THE BATS ASSOCIATION
THE BATS
Parabat Heritage Foundation (PHF)
SA Paratrooper Museum Exhibition Association (SAPMEA)
PROJECT LEADER OPERATION RESTORE THE GLORY
New Regiment Room
May 2026
On Sunday 24 May 2026, the DITSONG National Museum of Military History in Johannesburg proudly opened the new Regiments Room—a milestone for our Airborne fraternity. Thanks to veteran DPJ’s quick action, SAPMEA secured the last exhibition stand just in time.
I extend deep gratitude to the museum’s leadership for their grace and flexibility at the eleventh hour, and to all Regiments and Associations for the camaraderie that underscored our shared values.
The Regiments Room now displays the legacy of SA Paratrooper Veterans (SAPMEA) alongside our distinguished brothers‑in‑arms. With Major‑General Z.V. Ngcobo’s backing and Brigadier‑General N.A. Nthejane’s personal inspection, we received essential regalia and items from the SA Irish (Andrew Mlangeni) Regiment and Rand Light Infantry, ensuring every unit was properly equipped.
Over 300 guests and veterans filled the hall, and the Parabats shone with unmatched energy. Our AAPKAS restoration video—featuring the outdoor exit‑trainer tower unveiled on 30 April 2026 at 44 Parachute Regiment—played to great acclaim.
Special thanks to Colonel L.H. Gordon for loaning the iconic Parabat Jakkals and supplying vital exhibition pieces; to Fires van Vuuren for rapid transport; to Willie de Beer’s team for swift logistics; and to my crew—Mike McWilliams, Steve Camp, Glenn Lambert, Wit Willem Pretorius, Chris Koen—and every veteran who made this possible.
I also thank Colonel Z. Biyela for representing us from Tempe, and Major‑General H.D. Mashego (Ret) for presenting certificates of appreciation alongside Col. Biyela. The evening was highlighted by Lieb Liebenberg’s rousing Paratrooper song, joined enthusiastically by Maj‑Gen Mashego and our Special Forces brothers.
Our stories of courage are now preserved for future generations, mirroring the unveiling of the refurbished AAPKAS Outdoor Exit Trainer Tower on 30 April 2026, which marked the 65th anniversary of 1 Parachute Battalion.
Beyond preservation, we see a greater vision: using the SA Army’s discipline and purpose to guide the nation’s “lost youth.” As veterans, we have the skills and leadership to push back against the rising tide of crime and social decay.
Operation Restore the Glory is not just a look backward—it is a forward‑looking force for stability and transformation.
Now is the time to act, roll up our sleeves, and secure a better future for our grandchildren. Let’s move beyond idle criticism and lead from the front.
Operation Restore the Glory continues. United we are strong—second to none. Ex Alto Vincimus.
With sincere appreciation and respect,
Colonel (Hon.) Raymond C. Kramer
Chairman, SA Paratroopers Museum Exhibition Association (SAPMEA)
