525 Squadron

525 Squadron is a unique security squadron. It is the smallest security squadron in the South African Air Force yet came second in the SAEM evaluation for 2005. The Officer Commanding Maj Andre April attributes the success of his unit to the total commitment of his troupes. “The guys on the ground give excellent co-operation, they give their best - everything and that creates success”, says Maj April.

Members of 525 Squadron are predominantly from the remote Bredasdorp area. Although they are from different cultures, all of them are from the Cape Province and therefore want to be stationed at AFB Overberg. Coherence amongst the troupes is strengthened through a working relation that stretches back to the early 90’s.

Once a week the squadron participates in Chopper Drills, which include flight safety and recovery training. The squadron has six dogs, some of them still under training. Apart from their military duties of entrance control and patrolling the security area of AFB Overberg, handlers and their dogs participate twice a month in dog shows in aid of the local community, such as the school for handicapped children.

525 Squadron “adopted” a disadvantaged nursery in the local community and contributes to the children’s development through the “Donate a Toy” project. They assist the SPCA when dogs have to be dipped against ticks, they provide assistance during flood relief operations and participate in beach cleaning up operations in support of the Overberg Municipality.

Furthermore 525 Squadron drives the project Sport Against Crime, where they organize sport activities for the Worchester prison inmates. The squadron provides VIP services in Burundi and received a certificate for outstanding service outside the borders of South Africa. Being impartial during such duties, 525 Squadron have received letters of appreciation both from government officials and rebel leaders.

Maj April and his team of diligent security guards are confident that they will do even better than second place in this year’s SAEM evaluation.