SUCCESS PROJECT: THE RESTORATION OF THE “AAPKAS” – 44 PARACHUTE REGIMENT
- 2 hours ago
- 7 min read
A TRIBUTE TO HERITAGE, DISCIPLINE
AND PARATROOPER BROTHERHOOD
The successful restoration of the historic “Aapkas” at 44 Parachute Regiment marks an important milestone in preserving
the legacy, traditions, and esprit de corps (esprit de corps is like the invisible glue that holds a unit together,
keeping everyone aligned, motivated, and proud of their shared mission) of South Africa’s paratrooper community.
This project demonstrates what can be achieved when veterans, serving soldiers, and dedicated supporters unite
to protect the heritage of one of South Africa’s most respected military formations.
BACKGROUND TO THE PROJECT:
Over the years, as the deterioration of the iconic “Aapkas” became increasingly evident, several Parabat associations and groups attempted to initiate refurbishment projects.
However, these efforts were ultimately abandoned, largely due to the prohibitive costs and the significant time commitment required.
The deterioration of the structure can largely be attributed to its replacement in the regiment’s training programme by the new hangar, which includes several of its own high-exit training facilities.
Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, discussions began regarding the restoration and preservation of several important historical elements at 44 Parachute Regiment, including:
The “Aapkas”.
The Eagle Mascot Cage.
The Unit Museum.
Building a new Unit Entrance,
Various heritage structures within the regiment.
These efforts were formalised through a Service Level Agreement, approved through the necessary military channels up to senior leadership within the South African Army.
The pandemic delayed progress for several years.
Once conditions allowed, the project was revived and formal work commenced to restore these symbolic elements of the regiment’s history.
Read the initial project for more context:
REBUILDING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN VETERANS AND THE UNIT:
Another important development occurred during this period.
For some time, many veterans had experienced restricted access to military bases due to incidents where visitors made negative or inappropriate public comments after visiting units.
To rebuild trust and restore cooperation, a structured system was created, allowing veterans to visit the unit under responsible supervision once again.
This system ensures:
Proper registration of visitors.
Accountability for conduct.
Preservation of the dignity of the regiment.
The result has been the rebuilding of a positive relationship between veterans and the unit’s current leadership.
Today, veterans are again welcomed at the regiment — strengthening the bond between past, present, and future paratroopers.
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PARABAT HERITAGE FOUNDATION:
To ensure transparency, accountability, and proper governance of the restoration projects, the Parabat Heritage Foundation (PHF) was created.
The Foundation oversees funding, administration, and project implementation while ensuring strict financial control and compliance.
Key members include:
Col. (Hon.) Raymond Kramer - Project Leader and Chairman (PL).
Glenn Lambert (3Bn RSM Ret.) of 44 Maint) – Treasurer and Legal Oversight (TL).
Mike McWilliams (Rfn. Ret.) – Documentation and Communications (PDC).
Strict governance rules ensure:
Full transparency,
Auditable financial records,
Proper management of all donations and funds,
Every contribution is used strictly for restoration, preservation, and development projects benefiting the unit.
THE RESTORATION OF THE “AAPKAS”:
• The “Aapkas” is one of the most recognisable and symbolic structures within the paratrooper training environment.
• Its restoration, therefore, became the flagship project of the heritage programme.”
PROJECT CONTRACTOR:
The restoration work was entrusted to:
Mr. Arnold Rabie.
Founder of Africars for Keeps (Bloemfontein).
Mr. Rabie is:
A former paratrooper (Corporal in G-Company from 1981 – 1982).
A veteran of the regiment.
A specialist in steel construction.
His experience, reliability, and personal connection to the regiment made him the ideal candidate for the project.
The project required a highly specialised approach due to the nature of the structure and the working conditions at height.
Working on the “Aapkas at approximately 12 metres above ground level presented a major challenge and demanded careful planning, strict safety measures, and disciplined execution throughout the restoration process.
RECORD-TIME CONSTRUCTION:
The restoration project began in February 2025 and had a strict deadline.
The structure needed to be completed before the 65th Anniversary celebrations of the regiment.
Through intensive effort and dedication, the team successfully completed the restoration ahead of schedule, in approximately one month.
Work on the “Aapkas” commenced on 11 February 2025 and was completed on 9 March 2025.
The project took approximately 640 man-hours to complete.
A dedicated workforce of four to five workers per day was deployed throughout the construction period.
The result is a modern, structurally sound and visually impressive version of the historic “Aapkas.”
ADDITIONAL IMPROVEMENTS TO THE SITE:
The project extended beyond the structure itself.
Several additional improvements were planned to transform the surrounding area into a dignified heritage site:
New paving around the structure to eliminate mud.
Protective fencing for safety.
Structural lighting to illuminate the tower at night.
Removal of old structures in the surrounding area.
General beautification of the training area.
Further work remains to complete the broader site enhancement, including paving beneath the structure and the installation of "Devil’s Fork" fencing as part of the safety and presentation upgrades.
At night, the illuminated “Aapkas” will stand as a symbolic beacon visible across the base, reflecting pride and honour within the regiment.
PHOTOS OF RESTORATION PROCESS:
THE “AAPKAS” AS A HERITAGE LANDMARK:
The restored structure will serve several purposes:
Training heritage symbol.
Historical monument to paratrooper service.
Fundraising platform for veteran initiatives.
Visitors may eventually be allowed to enter the structure and take commemorative photographs for a small donation.
These funds will be directed toward ongoing maintenance and heritage projects at the unit.
SUPPORTING HERITAGE PROJECTS:
The “Aapkas” restoration forms part of a broader initiative called “Restore the Glory”, which includes:
Restoration of the Eagle Mascot Cage.
Upgrading of the Unit Museum.
Creation of a new paratrooper exhibition at the Ditsong Military Museum in Johannesburg.
Development of heritage displays and regimental memorabilia.
The exhibition project will be managed through a separate body:
SA Paratrooper Museum Exhibition Association (SAPMEA).
This initiative will ensure that the proud history of South African paratroopers is preserved for future generations.
NATIONAL INTEREST AND VETERAN PARTICIPATION:
The restoration has generated significant interest across the national paratrooper community.
Veterans, associations, and supporters have contributed financially and through voluntary services.
Donations of all sizes have been welcomed and recognised.
Every donor will be acknowledged as part of the heritage record surrounding the “Aapkas.”
The project highlights a powerful reality: When veterans unite around a shared mission, extraordinary achievements become possible.
PROJECT COST AND TECHNICAL COMMITMENT:
The restoration of the “Aapkas” was not only a heritage project, but also a significant technical and financial undertaking.
The total cost of the project amounted to R208,695 excluding VAT.
This amount included:
Materials.
Laser work.
Transport.
Cherry picker hire (Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)).
Labour.
Engineering costs.
The successful completion of the project within such a short period reflects not only sound project management but also the commitment and professionalism of everyone involved.
IMPACT ON MORALE AND “ESPRIT DE CORPS”:
The most important outcome of the project is the renewed spirit and pride within the regiment.
The restoration has already had a visible impact on:
Unit morale.
Veteran engagement.
Respect for tradition.
Institutional pride.
In a time when many military organisations face criticism and declining public confidence, projects like this help restore the honour associated with service and the maroon beret.
The “Aapkas” now stands not only as a historic training structure, but as a symbol of unity, resilience, and heritage.
The restoration of the “Aapkas” at 44 Parachute Regiment represents far more than the rebuilding of a physical structure.
It represents:
The preservation of military heritage.
The rebuilding of relationships between veterans and the serving force.
The restoration of pride within an elite unit.
A commitment to honour the legacy of South African paratroopers.
This project proves that with leadership, discipline, and unity,
it is possible to restore the glory of institutions that shaped generations of soldiers.
The restored “Aapkas” now stands as a beacon of pride for every past, present, and future paratrooper.
Above all, we give all praise, thanks, and honour to the Lord our God for the safety, certainty, wisdom,
insight, strength, prosperity, health, and discernment that have rested on this project.
Through Him and in Him, we will achieve success in our future endeavours.
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