Cdr Jules Gilman, a SA Naval Reserve (SANR) officer was recently
deployed for 6 weeks in SAS MENDI as the Executive Officer He is one of
several officers and ratings who recently completed operational
deployments within the Fleet. Cdr Fortuin recently served in SAS PROTEA
as the Logistics Officer (LOGO) during the ship’s deployment to Germany.Cdr Gilman, an ex Strike Craft OPSO and 1st Lt, has kept in-date by participating annually in Exercise Red Lion and regarded this deployment as a “great personal challenge”. As the Systems Manager for Strike Craft and Frigates in the Reserve Management Centre (RMC) he is leading the way for all Reserve members who are Strike Craft qualified to become qualified to serve in Frigates.
His deployment was made possible due to his employer, African Defence Systems (ADS), permitting him to work flexible hours resulting in him not having to take leave. This is an example of where industry and the SA Navy have collaborated with all parties having their needs met.
Cdr Gilman has met one of his goals whilst serving as Executive Officer as he also completed the Frigates Task Book. This is the first step in qualifying for the Officer of the Day endorsement. His intention is to complete the OOD endorsement by year-end thereby providing the SA Navy with a qualified Reserve frigate XO.
Cdr Jules Gilman at home on the bridge of SAS MENDI
Cdr Jules Gilman looks comfortable in the XO's cabin onboard SAS MENDI
Cdr Jules Gilman on the foredeck of the SAS MENDI
With acknowledgements to Lt Glenn von Zeil and SA Naval Reserve.
All qualified Strike Craft Reserve members who wish to endorse their qualifications to serve in Frigates are urged to contact Cdr Gilman at platanna.rc@gmail.com or jules@cadefence.com or on 082 920 6630.
Here is a white, South African male who served the SADF, who is prepared in his early fifties to give up six weeks in a year of his life to serve the service and the country that he loves.
Without SA Navy Reserve Officers such as Cdr Gilman, the current SA Navy would only be a shadow.
Salute.