He was speaking at the Chief of the Navy Medal Parade in Simon's Town, Cape Town, Western Cape province, where more than 80 medals were awarded with full ceremonial honours.

Fourteen members were honoured for 20 years of good service, while a special South African Service Medal was awarded to just one person, Captain Riedewaan Semaar, a combat officer who joined the Navy in 1994.

Semaar reflected on the moment, says “Many before me didn't have the luxury to stand here and receive it. It's unfortunate it took this long to be recognised, but I think with a degree of pride, one can accept that systems work. I need to take promise in the idea that when it works, it works. It's not completely delayed and doesn't dismiss your history, you know? I would see the piece of metal as a memory for those that came before me—and hopefully a beacon of light for those that will follow.”

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