anticipation of the hard work that awaited
the base in the preparation of Air Force Base Hoedspruit’s
African themed aviation ball. This formal dinner took place
on 19 August 2005 with the goal of reuniting old friends and
colleagues, whilst keeping the upliftment of morale in mind.
The ball was also seen as a unique opportunity to establish
healthy partnerships between the Air Force and civilian
stakeholders.
On their arrival at this glamorous black-tie
event, guests were charmed by the Cheetah, Impala and Oryx
gracing the cloudy skies in a magnificent air display,
trying to steal the limelight from the elegant ladies in
their colourful evening gowns.
Tribal
dancers from a local village showcased their talent as
couples stepped under the arching elephant tusks and set
foot on the red carpet leading them into the beautifully
decorated hall. Throughout the evening guests were
captivated and entertained by the talent of guest artists
Bronwyn and former Air Force member, Eben Smith. The
highlight for many came with a performance by the tribal
dancers later the evening, when they really showed what they
were all about.
Throughout
the evening the main message, “From within Africa grows
unique friendships – AFB Hoedspruit, your strategic partner
in the Limpopo Province”, was communicated.
After a mouth-watering three-course dinner,
couples took to
the dance floor to flaunt their abilities
and enjoyed every moment of it. Months of planning and hard
work finally came to a very successful end when the last
guests left in the early morning hours of the following day.
By Maryke Lynn
Journalist Ad Astra magazine
