In Memory Of

CLAASEN, PIETER GERRIT

Service Details
Age:
 19
Date of Birth:
 1968-04-03
Service No:
 85918027BG
Rank:
 Rifleman
Unit:
 4 South African Infantry Battalion
Regiment:
 South African Infantry Corps
Date of Death:
 1987-11-09
Cause of Death:
 Killed in action, during Ops Modular when their Ratel 20, Callsign 21B was hit in the spare tyre by a 23mm Soviet ZU-23-2 Anti-Aircraft Cannon that was deployed in a ground defence role, mortally wounding Sergeant DIGUE in the head who was manning the rear gun position at the time. As Rifleman CLAASEN debussed from the vehicle, he was first hit in the arm my hostile small arms fire causing him to elevate himself off the ground whereupon, he was shot in the stomach and mortally wounded. Ratel 21B however remained operational and continued with the battle.
Commemoration
Grave Reference:
 A7
Cemetery:
 GERMISTON (SOUTHPARK) CEMETERY
Localitly:
 Gauteng
Country:
 South Africa
Additional Information
Son of Mr. and Mrs. N. A. J. Claasen, of Elspark.