In Memory Of

CALITZ, JOHAN

Service Details
Age:
 20
Date of Birth:
 1960-05-09
Service No:
 76509793BG
Rank:
 Rifleman
Unit:
 3 South African Infantry Battalion
Unit 2:
 "B" Coy., 1st Platoon
Regiment:
 South African Infantry Corps
Date of Death:
 1980-08-13
Cause of Death:
 Died of wounds, received on patrol in the Okatopi region of Ovamboland in the latter half of 1980 his section were ambushed by approx 50 Swapo who were part of the annual mass incursion into the area from Angola during the wet season. Johan was fatally wounded in the encounter and unfortunately later died on the casevac chopper. Three others in the section were wounded in the fire fight. It was their third and final border duty during national service having previously served at Ruacana and Ombalantu. He lived in Bloemfontein and was known as Wingnut by his platoon mates due to his prominent ears.
Commemoration
Cemetery:
 BLOEMFONTEIN (SOUTHPARK) CEMETERY
Localitly:
 Free State
Country:
 South Africa
Additional Information
Son of Mrs. S. van der Merwe