👉Our videos and the effort we put into them are 100% free for everyone to enjoy, and all I ask is that you leave a thumbs-up on any videos that you like and subscribe to our channel. For those of you that still wish to support this channel further, however, I’ve posted links below. Thank you! www.paypal.com/paypalme/johnvzyl Join us on Patreon - www.patreon.com/johnvanzyl For those who wish to obtain Hannes Wessels' books please check out: exmontibusmedia.co.za/ Or check out his blog at: africaunauthorised.com/
Wonderful interview with Pat but no surprises for me personally as I have both followed, and personally know Pat. Here is a man of the deepest humility and a shining beacon of what an excellent officer is. Pat was given the respectful 'pseudonym' "Flawless Lawless" because that was, simply, how he was. Pat never cuffed anything. Herewith Pat's Silver Cross of Rhodesia Citation: “Lieutenant Patrick Lawless joined the 1st Battalion, the Rhodesian African Rifles on 4 February 1977 as a platoon commander. Throughout his service he has displayed a fierce determination to seek out and destroy the enemy. He has frequently been exposed to extremely dangerous situations in which his calm planning and aggressive action have been outstanding. On 11 August 1978, Lt Lawless was in command of a group of seven men tasked with locating a route which was being used by terrorists to infiltrate Rhodesia. Towards last light Lt Lawless' group located a group of three terrorists moving through the area. By skilful and prompt manoeuvre of his men, he succeeded in wounding and capturing one of these terrorists although darkness had fallen by the time contact was made. The terrorist died of his wounds in spite of Lt Lawless' efforts to keep him alive, but before dying, he yielded valuable information. The following morning, a group of terrorists, numbering approximately seventy, carried out a surprise attack on Lt Lawless' group. The terrorists, who enjoyed tactical and numerical superiority, made repeated fierce and determined attacks on the small patrol. Lt Lawless so organized and inspired his men that the terrorists were driven back each time until, desperately short of ammunition; he was forced to conduct a tactical withdrawal. At least eight terrorists were killed and a number of others wounded in this action. On another occasion Lt Lawless was a member of a Fireforce which responded to a sighting of thirty terrorists. Following a series of contacts with this group, Lt Lawless was tasked to command a sweep to clear the river line along which the terrorists had taken cover. The sweep line was subjected to heavy small-arms and machine-gun fire. Lt Lawless was ordered by the Fireforce commander to withdraw to facilitate use of air weapons against the terrorists' position. During the regrouping phase, Lt Lawless realized that one officer was missing. Siting machine guns to cover his movement and undaunted by the heavy enemy fire being directed at him, Lt Lawless skirmished alone to the last reported position of the missing officer. He located the officer who had been mortally wounded approximately eight metres from the terrorists' position. The close proximity to the enemy position prohibited the use of air weapons against the terrorists, so Lt Lawless rapidly assessed the situation and moved his machine gun to a better position. In this assault, three terrorists were killed. The sweep line then continued with its task, successfully eliminating a further seven terrorists in the process. On reaching a sharp river bend, the sweep came under heavy and effective fire from six terrorists who had positioned themselves among boulders in the riverbed. Lt Lawless moved his men to a position from which they could provide effective covering fire for an assault group on the other side of the river. The initial assault was successful but resulted in one of the officers being wounded in the head. Lt Lawless, appreciating the demoralising effect that the wounded officer would have on his men unless he was attended to rapidly, moved to his assistance. This entailed crossing a river in full view of the terrorists and under heavy small-arms fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lt Lawless successfully reached the wounded officer, rendered first aid, and arranged the necessary casevac. He then resumed command of the sweep line and so manoeuvred his men as to facilitate the elimination by the sweep of a further three terrorists. In this fierce action fifteen terrorists in all were accounted for, and a great deal of credit for the success achieved must go to Lt Lawless whose calm leadership and fearless actions inspired those about him. In the aforementioned actions and numerous others in which Lt Lawless has been involved, he has repeatedly committed acts of conspicuous gallantry in his determination to close with the enemy. He has earned the undying respect and admiration of those with whom he serves and his conduct is worthy of the highest praise and recognition.”
I had the privilege to know & work with Pat during his second career in business while we were both at Bureau Veritas in Manchester. Such a great down to earth humble man, full of interesting stories, and treated us all as his equal (even though he was echelons beyond us in so many ways). I often remember thinking "I would follow this man into battle". Great to know you Pat!
The true example of a professional soldier-never a lull in his career work rate-an intellect,moral compass in the right place and all the while humble and pragmatic,inspirational stuff thanks Hannes for another quality guest and securing our history.
Another excellent interview. Brigadier Lawless is a very affable and principled man who served Rhodesia and his adopted country (UK) admirably and with honour.
Thank you to all of those who posted comments. May I just add that Hannes and John do such a good job at easing the memories lodged at the back of the increasingly unreliable brain. They are to be commended for their work in building the legacy!
Thanks Pat John and Hannes for another wonderful interview. The British where very lucky to get you Pat. The RAR was a fantastic regiment with tremendous service to the British Empire and sadly kicked in the teeth in the end by the Brits. My father was a proud regular 2nd World War British Engineers Officer, and somehow we ended up with Rodwell Banda as our gardener in Byo. Rodwell was as my Dad drummed into us a retired RAR Sergeant and was to be treated with high respect and who we as young boys should be very grateful to have around to help us with life. Rodwell took his job very seriously and considered it an honour to work for an ex British Officer and remember so well how my Dad and Rodwell would salute each other as my Dad would leave for work everyday. I saw the RAR on parade many times and the Regimental Band marching and playing Sweet Banana will remain with me as very happy memories till my dying day. Thank you all for your service I love the way you guys are preserving our History. Much respect and all the best to you all.
Hi Graham - thank you for those kind comments! Rodwell was lucky to have found employment with the Hawkes family. With the surname 'Banda' he may have descended via the Malawi link! Pat
Morning Pat, Hannes and John. Thanks again. I had the privilege in working with RAR on a operation at Rutenga, impressive. Further as a Surveyor had a extreme Job in the Hunyani Gorge, very hot area, I was supplied by the army with a RAR WO, wont mention his name. What a man and a friend he was . Saved our Arse's a couple of times. A one man army
Ishe Pat a great discussion only to be expected from you. All your great work chairing the Rhodesian Army Association and also the RAR Regimental Association UK and working with you all those 32 years has been an honour and pleasure.
What an interesting and articulate interview that was. I really appreciated Pat's overview of the African situation as well as the British and international components….. thank you 🙏🏾
Pat Lawless is one of the men I admire and respect and would follow anytime and anywhere. A fine officer and a gentleman of note. Excellent Interview Hannes and Pat.
Listening to Pat and all the other chaps and ladies who have featured on your programs I realize once again that if we had been able to keep all of them and all those who are Rhodesians and who also left for whatever reason and prevented the sad diaspora. what a magnificent country with wonderful racial harmony , excelling above all other African countries (and possibly some not in Africa, ) in all spheres it would have been. However politics once again bedevilled it all.. Our loss was the gain for the countries in all points of the compass never to be regained in our lifetimes. I believe we all mourn for what could have been . To misquote a well known poem "There will always be, a piece of that wonderful beautiful country" in our hearts and souls!! Thank you again guys Wyt Barnard
Pat. Many thanks for this great (and long awaited) testimony. An essential part of our history. Proud and privileged to call myself your friend. Bayete !
As A USA Citizen , Graduate of Sir Francis Drake High School 1975 extremely proud of My Family and Friends who have served , I say here that this History , the Legacy, the words of songs like The Deafening Silence, You Ain’t No Hero and Troopie Boy You Won bring to mind the words of Manuscript Found In Accra on Defeat and the Words of Henry The Fifth’s St Crispian’s Day Speech. On hearing any of the inspirational songs , just hearing the Name Rhodesia is enough to move Me to tears of pride. That is a Victory.
And 'Muli Bwange' to you too, Brad! In the early years of the RNR, RAR many of the finest African Soldiers hailed from Nyasaland, Malawi so that I understand Chichewa was one of those languages young RAR Officers were required to master! Pat
A wonderful interview with a great officer. As junior subbies in 1RAR we were made so welcome by Pat at the unit. He was so humble and always made time to talk and guide us on arrival at 1RAR. Thank you Pat and Hannes for another great interview.
Wonderful, I could listen to his experiences and conclusions for hours and he's certainly given me big list of reading material and concepts to explore. 😁👍
Boss Pat. Thank you for taking the time to share. Very much appreciated. We were blessed to have come out the other side, so many of our fellow Service Men did not make it. A vast amount of water has passed under the Bridge of Life since we were young boys at St Andrews. Respect and Thanks again Sir. Keith (Barney) Barnard 4 & 3 Sqn Rhodesian Airforce.
Hey Barney - great to hear from you and delighted its you that has been keeping many of my former young AAC Officers on the straight and narrow in Oz! Happy days indeed! Pat
Great to hear confirmation that the RAR did their bit on external ops and could listen to Mr Lawless for hours When he mentions 2Lt Crispy Willar’s weapons course, I think it was an Anti Tank course on the 106mm weapons fixed on the back of a 25 Unimog. Sweet Banana!!! Warriors
What a great interview and what a fascinating bugger to listen to, using his type of plain language, shit we had some brilliant men in Rhodesia. Salute.
Excellent interview! The Brigadier has the level of professionalism, which cemented the Rhodesian Security Forces ability to remain dominant and successful in all respects of that war. We Salute you, Sir! We only failed in the political arena!
Wow, thanks so much! A measure of the man is my all time favourite on youtube and got me hooked on rhodie stuff when upladed almost a decade ago by Richard Lawless. Loved the march "wings" at the graduation. Also featured BM Thompson, who was sadly killed. He was portrayed in Frontline Rhodesia. I have a pic of his grave on my wall. Best regards from Luxembourg
Dear 'Tight Camper'. Giles was a fine man, Officer and friend! He was also the subject of some great pranks we hapless Subbies played on him, especially the bogus COMOPS instruction to lead the 'collection of bogus xenon rays emanating from our RAR radio antennae' Took him days! But he of course got his own back on us, eventually! Pat
Listening to Pat is like looking at a fully erect, flared Cobra. You cannot take your eyes off him nor stop listening to what he has to say. I'm gobsmacked by what he's been through and achieved. I'm truly amazed. Good talk and nicely guided by you Hannes. Great production John!
@@fightingmenofrhodesia Cheers John. When are we going to hear yours and Hannes’ stories. You said in interview with Fergus you were both from Melsetter / Chipinga? Did you know Aitkens, Dickinsons (Carina) and of course Machedu Bennett? Aitkens and Dickinsons mates my parents from Rusape. Think Jimmy Aitken sometimes flew his plane supporting army.
I was posted to a PV for three weeks. The intake guys were all madala. I took them to sight their 303,s, the all fired their rifles over their heads. I asked them why, they said so they could see where the bullets go. Well trained heh. lol
Great interview. Observations on British Officer training really pertinent as in my experience the soldier first ethos is sadly missing from the Sandhurst Ruperts. I believe you also had some ideas for adapting the Fire Force tactics to the Afghanistan situation which I also thought might of benefitted our efforts. Alas not acted on by those short sighted and myopic members of the senior staff.
Pat was an exemplary soldier and a born leader - so competent and self-effacing. He mentioned Boetie York, a Figtree farmer. For anyone interested here is a recording of Boetie’s funeral, a couple of weeks ago. Some wonderful speeches. What a special man he was too: ruclips.net/video/RRT0fO3h-9E/видео.html
As Pat says about the guys going to the government & asking what was the strategy for ending the war, l remember sometime in late '77 or' 78 where someone formed the Rhodesian Action Movement (RAM where the logo was a rams head) l can't remember if we met in the Ambassador Hotel in Salisbury but there were plains clothes SB guys at the back of the hall taking notes & photos of the guys speaking on the stage. All that RAM wanted to do was prosecute the war with all the resources that we had. In other words, take the offensive to the enemy in neighbouring countries & not wait & react to terr incidents within Rhodesia. That was the first time that l saw civilians/territorial soldiers pissed off with the way that the RF were conducting the war
@@jurgen7579 Dankie. I knew that amongst FMOR followers there would be someone far more knowledgeable than me. I must admit we were a bit pissed off & worried about SB skulking around. A bit like the Stasi in East Germany. Hell all we were trying to do was win the war by saying to the government instead of calling us up every 6 weeks & sometimes achieving f--- all, rather have a mass call up & do something really constructive. It wasn't like we were going to overthrow I D S & his government, so it was rather worrisome having SB spooks around
Pat, what a great interview and insight.I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Thanks very much indeed! I wonder if you had occasion to come my old school friend Ant Pittman who also held leadership positions in the British Army. Cheers Andy Jamison
In childhood I lived next door to the Lawless family. Pat's dad was employed by Anglo American. Pat was in Rhodesia most of the time. I wonder if Pat recalls the Apfel family next door in 6th avenue Percelia?
Hi Maurice, I think TFM is today a 'steak house' - used to host some great bands and music (not mine! ... I failed to add I am an enthusiastic, if crap, drummer!). Pat
@@patlawless499 Hi Pat , thanks for taking the time to reply to my comment. Yes I can relate to your crap drumming, l'd like to think my guitar playing was up there with David Gilmore , but l'm only dreaming , had some pretty wild nights with my buddies , a couple of them were Rhodies that had fought in the bush war & had moved to S.A for a hopeful better life , we had some good times together, l will always have a soft spot in my ❤ for Rhodies & Rhodesia . Thanks again.
What a great recital Pat, I was very privileged to spend time in the early days of Inf25/19 with you. Would be great if we caught up at some time over a few beers. An interesting perspective that Pat may be able to expand on ,as he touched on the strategic/political part of any military conflict, is what exactly was the political strategy of the RF govt in ending the war & achieving common political agreement. I can only assume the RF & military strategists did not believe the war was winnable due to external political influences. I did spend some time with RIC & these topics were controversial & with so much internal conflicts on the way forward, there was clearly not a clear path on the ending of the war.
Hi David - really good to be in touch with you again! You make a great point on 'strategy' to which (regrettably) there is no easy answer. In the early years after I left Zim, I read Cilliers "COIN IN Rhodesia" - a young South African Army Major's excellent MPhil thesis carefully: there are some insights there. I chair the Rhodesian Army Association in which we look after the 'Archives' - many tons of Army HQ and COMOPS documents, archived (not digitised!), currently residing in a secure location and temporarily not accessible (to prevent them being returned to Zim as a consequence of a move by some very liberal academics!). Bottom line - no evidence of any serious thinking by any Rhodesian politician on the subject of a strategy at all, much less a strategy to 'win' - whatever that might have meant! I'll hold you to that beer next time I'm in Oz on business! Pat
Wonderful interview and Pat talks with expert knowledge and great humility. Hope we meet up again somewhere, sometime Pat. Perhaps Westminster in November. Warmest wishes, aye. Jim
Thank you Jim. Coming from you (and knowing a little of your Rhodesian Special Forces military pedigree) that is high praise indeed! See you in November! Pat
Correct Mike, and on the MAG. That's actually Rich Blaylock (commissioned into the Rhodesian Corps of Engineers from our course) initiating the ambush! Remains one of life's great characters! A fine Officer. When he left Zim he applied for the South African Navy as a demolitions expert. At his interview they asked if he could swim; they were not impressed by his answer: "... but I thought that's what you has ships for ...! " 😀Pat
Hi Fraser, I was - but in 74/75 ! One of my all time favourite memories was of crewing the electric trains pulling sugar cane up into the area around Gingindlovo and back to Durban. Stoking steam engines was seriously hard work! Pat
These war stories are great and I cannot detract from the bravery and military expertise of the people mentioned. I am a Rhodesian and I have a little military experience which allows me to appreciate what is said. But, I ask myself, why no questions about the bigger picture? Brigadier Pat went into Iraq based on the total bullshit story of 9/11. Storming Norman was a puppet in a bigger game and I wouldn't add him to my list of heroes. Why no questions about that game? We can celebrate the exploits of "fighting men", correctly so. but questions need to be asked as to why they are asked to fight in the first place. Do we want to live in a world governed by forces who are happy to have fighting men to do their bidding,, brave and expert as they may be?
The first Iraq war in 1990/1991 was not as a result of 9/11 which happened in 2001. Iraq invaded Kuwait and the USA and its allies responded. I believe it was the first war covered by 24 hours a day news, notably by CNN. I agree the second Iraqi war was an invasion premised on lies.
I would have thought that soldiers are not given the opportunity to investigate the lies and deceit that send them into war, they had to fight for queen and country. Why do you have to bring up the inconvenient truth? I would suggest that we the regular folks probably have been lied to and deceived during most of the wars in our lifetime & most probably history rewritten to hide the lies & deceit of past wars. Look at Russia & Ukrain right now, a war that is prolonged and egged on by the western countries based very heavily on lies, misinformation & disinformation channelled through the nefarious puppet mainstream media, lets see how that is written about in the future shall we. Anyway I digress...
👉Our videos and the effort we put into them are 100% free for everyone to enjoy, and all I ask is that you leave a thumbs-up on any videos that you like and subscribe to our channel. For those of you that still wish to support this channel further, however, I’ve posted links below. Thank you!
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For those who wish to obtain Hannes Wessels' books please check out:
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P
Wonderful interview with Pat but no surprises for me personally as I have both followed, and personally know Pat. Here is a man of the deepest humility and a shining beacon of what an excellent officer is. Pat was given the respectful 'pseudonym' "Flawless Lawless" because that was, simply, how he was. Pat never cuffed anything.
Herewith Pat's Silver Cross of Rhodesia Citation:
“Lieutenant Patrick Lawless joined the 1st Battalion, the Rhodesian African Rifles on 4 February 1977 as a platoon commander. Throughout his service he has displayed a fierce determination to seek out and destroy the enemy. He has frequently been exposed to extremely dangerous situations in which his calm planning and aggressive action have been outstanding.
On 11 August 1978, Lt Lawless was in command of a group of seven men tasked with locating a route which was being used by terrorists to infiltrate Rhodesia. Towards last light Lt Lawless' group located a group of three terrorists moving through the area. By skilful and prompt manoeuvre of his men, he succeeded in wounding and capturing one of these terrorists although darkness had fallen by the time contact was made. The terrorist died of his wounds in spite of Lt Lawless' efforts to keep him alive, but before dying, he yielded valuable information.
The following morning, a group of terrorists, numbering approximately seventy, carried out a surprise attack on Lt Lawless' group. The terrorists, who enjoyed tactical and numerical superiority,
made repeated fierce and determined attacks on the small patrol. Lt Lawless so organized and
inspired his men that the terrorists were driven back each time until, desperately short of ammunition; he was forced to conduct a tactical withdrawal. At least eight terrorists were killed and
a number of others wounded in this action.
On another occasion Lt Lawless was a member of a Fireforce which responded to a sighting of thirty terrorists. Following a series of contacts with this group, Lt Lawless was tasked to command a sweep to clear the river line along which the terrorists had taken cover. The sweep line was subjected to heavy small-arms and machine-gun fire. Lt Lawless was ordered by the Fireforce commander to withdraw to facilitate use of air weapons against the terrorists' position. During the regrouping phase, Lt Lawless realized that one officer was missing. Siting machine guns to cover his movement and undaunted by the heavy enemy fire being directed at him, Lt Lawless skirmished alone to the last reported position of the missing officer. He located the officer who had been mortally wounded approximately eight metres from the terrorists' position. The close proximity to the enemy position prohibited the use of air weapons against the terrorists, so Lt Lawless rapidly assessed the situation and moved his machine gun to a better position. In this assault, three terrorists were killed. The sweep line then continued with its task, successfully eliminating a further seven terrorists in the process. On reaching a sharp river bend, the sweep came under heavy and effective fire from six terrorists who had positioned themselves among boulders in the riverbed. Lt Lawless moved his men to a position from which they could provide effective covering fire for an assault group on the other side of the river. The initial assault was successful but resulted in one of the officers being wounded in the head. Lt Lawless, appreciating the demoralising effect that the wounded officer would have on
his men unless he was attended to rapidly, moved to his assistance. This entailed crossing a river in full view of the terrorists and under heavy small-arms fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lt Lawless successfully reached the wounded officer, rendered first aid, and arranged the necessary casevac. He then resumed command of the sweep line and so manoeuvred his men as to facilitate the elimination by the sweep of a further three terrorists. In this fierce action fifteen terrorists in all were accounted for, and a great deal of credit for the success achieved must go to Lt
Lawless whose calm leadership and fearless actions inspired those about him.
In the aforementioned actions and numerous others in which Lt Lawless has been involved, he has repeatedly committed acts of conspicuous gallantry in his determination to close with the enemy. He has earned the undying respect and admiration of those with whom he serves and his conduct is worthy of the highest praise and recognition.”
Hi Russell, Tatenda, Mambo! Hi praise, emanating from you. And a 'big thanks' for all that you continue to do for the Regimenta; family! Pat
Wow that is some citation. Thanks for posting Sir.
I had the privilege to know & work with Pat during his second career in business while we were both at Bureau Veritas in Manchester. Such a great down to earth humble man, full of interesting stories, and treated us all as his equal (even though he was echelons beyond us in so many ways). I often remember thinking "I would follow this man into battle". Great to know you Pat!
The true example of a professional soldier-never a lull in his career work rate-an intellect,moral compass in the right place and all the while humble and pragmatic,inspirational stuff thanks Hannes for another quality guest and securing our history.
Another excellent interview. Brigadier Lawless is a very affable and principled man who served Rhodesia and his adopted country (UK) admirably and with honour.
An excellent interview, very insightful, not just about the Rhodesian war, but about military thinking.
Thank you to all of those who posted comments. May I just add that Hannes and John do such a good job at easing the memories lodged at the back of the increasingly unreliable brain. They are to be commended for their work in building the legacy!
Hear, hear Pat! 100% agreed.
Agreed 100%
Doing a great job bringing people’s memories and experiences onto this forum so this great time in our lives are now a part of history. Thanks guys 🙏🏼
What an incredible interview. Thank you so much, John and Hannes for taking the time to record, edit and share this gold mine of information.
What an awesome leader Pat was. Lead by example. Gave praise and respect when it was due regardless who it was. Great tactician, respected by many.
Thanks Pat John and Hannes for another wonderful interview. The British where very lucky to get you Pat.
The RAR was a fantastic regiment with tremendous service to the British Empire and sadly kicked in the teeth in the end by the Brits.
My father was a proud regular 2nd World War British Engineers Officer, and somehow we ended up with Rodwell Banda as our gardener in Byo. Rodwell was as my Dad drummed into us a retired RAR Sergeant and was to be treated with high respect and who we as young boys should be very grateful to have around to help us with life.
Rodwell took his job very seriously and considered it an honour to work for an ex British Officer and remember so well how my Dad and Rodwell would salute each other as my Dad would leave for work everyday.
I saw the RAR on parade many times and the Regimental Band marching and playing Sweet Banana will remain with me as very happy memories till my dying day.
Thank you all for your service I love the way you guys are preserving our History.
Much respect and all the best to you all.
Hi Graham - thank you for those kind comments! Rodwell was lucky to have found employment with the Hawkes family. With the surname 'Banda' he may have descended via the Malawi link! Pat
@@patlawless499 yes Rodwell was definitely from Malawi. He used to walk around like he was on a parade ground!
Morning Pat, Hannes and John. Thanks again. I had the privilege in working with RAR on a operation at Rutenga, impressive. Further as a Surveyor had a extreme Job in the Hunyani Gorge, very hot area, I was supplied by the army with a RAR WO, wont mention his name. What a man and a friend he was . Saved our Arse's a couple of times. A one man army
Ishe Pat a great discussion only to be expected from you. All your great work chairing the Rhodesian Army Association and also the RAR Regimental Association UK and working with you all those 32 years has been an honour and pleasure.
What an interesting and articulate interview that was. I really appreciated Pat's overview of the African situation as well as the British and international components….. thank you 🙏🏾
Pat Lawless is one of the men I admire and respect and would follow anytime and anywhere. A fine officer and a gentleman of note. Excellent Interview Hannes and Pat.
Well said Hamish.
Hi Hamish, many thanks for the kind words! You and I were blessed by some great mentors back then. You, of course, had it in the blood too! Pat
Listening to Pat and all the other chaps and ladies who have featured on your programs I realize once again that if we had been able to keep all of them and all those who are Rhodesians and who also left for whatever reason and prevented the sad diaspora. what a magnificent country with wonderful racial harmony , excelling above all other African countries (and possibly some not in Africa, ) in all spheres it would have been. However politics once again bedevilled it all..
Our loss was the gain for the countries in all points of the compass never to be regained in our lifetimes.
I believe we all mourn for what could have been . To misquote a well known poem "There will
always be, a piece of that wonderful beautiful country" in our hearts and souls!!
Thank you again guys
Wyt Barnard
Pat. Many thanks for this great (and long awaited) testimony. An essential part of our history. Proud and privileged to call myself your friend. Bayete !
Dear Jean-Michel, thank you - very generous comments earning you many Chibuku's or US equivalent when we next meet! Pat
As A USA Citizen , Graduate of Sir Francis Drake High School 1975 extremely proud of My Family and Friends who have served , I say here that this History , the Legacy, the words of songs like The Deafening Silence, You Ain’t No Hero and Troopie Boy You Won bring to mind the words of Manuscript Found In Accra on Defeat and the Words of Henry The Fifth’s St Crispian’s Day Speech. On hearing any of the inspirational songs , just hearing the Name Rhodesia is enough to move Me to tears of pride. That is a Victory.
One of the best interviews,what an interesting man,what a life!
Excellent, thank you for a no holds barred discussion, telling it as it needs to be told.
The best interview I have seen of its type. The man's amazing
What an awesome interview, truly a man amongst men. Such an interesting and inspiring career. Thank you Pat. Greetings from Malawi.
And 'Muli Bwange' to you too, Brad! In the early years of the RNR, RAR many of the finest African Soldiers hailed from Nyasaland, Malawi so that I understand Chichewa was one of those languages young RAR Officers were required to master! Pat
A wonderful interview with a great officer. As junior subbies in 1RAR we were made so welcome by Pat at the unit. He was so humble and always made time to talk and guide us on arrival at 1RAR. Thank you Pat and Hannes for another great interview.
Wonderful, I could listen to his experiences and conclusions for hours and he's certainly given me big list of reading material and concepts to explore. 😁👍
Wonderful!
Thank you thank you thank you Pat, Hannes and John!
Boss Pat. Thank you for taking the time to share. Very much appreciated. We were blessed to have come out the other side, so many of our fellow Service Men did not make it. A vast amount of water has passed under the Bridge of Life since we were young boys at St Andrews. Respect and Thanks again Sir. Keith (Barney) Barnard 4 & 3 Sqn Rhodesian Airforce.
Hey Barney - great to hear from you and delighted its you that has been keeping many of my former young AAC Officers on the straight and narrow in Oz! Happy days indeed! Pat
Cheers Johannes, this is a treat for mine and my extended family. Truly an incredible portfolio of stories you've set out to gather and share.
Glad you enjoy it!
Hey John v Zyl, how about an couple of episodes of your and Hannes Wessels exploits in the RLI?
Great to hear confirmation that the RAR did their bit on external ops and could listen to Mr Lawless for hours When he mentions 2Lt Crispy Willar’s weapons course, I think it was an Anti Tank course on the 106mm weapons fixed on the back of a 25 Unimog. Sweet Banana!!! Warriors
Great stuff.
One of the best structured presentations in this series.
Much appreciated!
What a great interview and what a fascinating bugger to listen to, using his type of plain language, shit we had some brilliant men in Rhodesia. Salute.
Excellent interview! The Brigadier has the level of professionalism, which cemented the Rhodesian Security Forces ability to remain dominant and successful in all respects of that war. We Salute you, Sir! We only failed in the political arena!
Excellent interview Pat, many thanks for sharing it all.
Pat I can't believe Clark was so strict , the naughtiest Officer I Knew, nice stories!
Awesome interview..very humble very brave man what a life!!!
Wow, thanks so much! A measure of the man is my all time favourite on youtube and got me hooked on rhodie stuff when upladed almost a decade ago by Richard Lawless. Loved the march "wings" at the graduation. Also featured BM Thompson, who was sadly killed. He was portrayed in Frontline Rhodesia. I have a pic of his grave on my wall.
Best regards from Luxembourg
Thank you Tom!
Giles Chinyere (sp) was my OC at 3(Bde) Sigs. Good to hear mention of him.
Dear 'Tight Camper'. Giles was a fine man, Officer and friend! He was also the subject of some great pranks we hapless Subbies played on him, especially the bogus COMOPS instruction to lead the 'collection of bogus xenon rays emanating from our RAR radio antennae' Took him days! But he of course got his own back on us, eventually! Pat
Another fantastic video. I really enjoyed watching this interview.
Excellent chat
Listening to Pat is like looking at a fully erect, flared Cobra. You cannot take your eyes off him nor stop listening to what he has to say. I'm gobsmacked by what he's been through and achieved. I'm truly amazed. Good talk and nicely guided by you Hannes. Great production John!
Great interview. What a gentleman.
Awesome photos
I have just been made aware of this channel today. It’s excellent and this interview with Pat is particularly fascinating. Brilliant.
Welcome aboard!
@@fightingmenofrhodesia Cheers John. When are we going to hear yours and Hannes’ stories. You said in interview with Fergus you were both from Melsetter / Chipinga? Did you know Aitkens, Dickinsons (Carina) and of course Machedu Bennett? Aitkens and Dickinsons mates my parents from Rusape. Think Jimmy Aitken sometimes flew his plane supporting army.
Outstanding episode, well done!
Thank you Hannes it was very interesting
Glad you enjoyed it
Great interview chaps. Fantastic insights, thank you.
Didnt miss a beat !! Great interveiw guys !!!
THAT WAS A GREAT SHOW GUYS,thanks
Exceptional and outstanding interview. Greatly appreciated and thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for your kind comment
Thank you great stories
Another great one. Very smart man
Thank you kindly
I was posted to a PV for three weeks. The intake guys were all madala. I took them to sight their 303,s, the all fired their rifles over their heads. I asked them why, they said so they could see where the bullets go.
Well trained heh. lol
Happy last memorial day. You fought a noble fight.
A military officer equally endowed with academic and practical capabilities.
RMY
A remarkably interesting interview.
Absolutely wonderful talk.
Great interview. Observations on British Officer training really pertinent as in my experience the soldier first ethos is sadly missing from the Sandhurst Ruperts. I believe you also had some ideas for adapting the Fire Force tactics to the Afghanistan situation which I also thought might of benefitted our efforts. Alas not acted on by those short sighted and myopic members of the senior staff.
An exceptional podcast thank you .
Outstanding!
Pat was an exemplary soldier and a born leader - so competent and self-effacing. He mentioned Boetie York, a Figtree farmer. For anyone interested here is a recording of Boetie’s funeral, a couple of weeks ago. Some wonderful speeches. What a special man he was too:
ruclips.net/video/RRT0fO3h-9E/видео.html
Great thanks Pat
Salute Pat. Keep ranting, We Rhodesians are good at that, say and do what we mean or prove us wrong.
Thanks John and Hannes
Thanks, Rossi! Pat
As Pat says about the guys going to the government & asking what was the strategy for ending the war, l remember sometime in late '77 or' 78 where someone formed the Rhodesian Action Movement (RAM where the logo was a rams head) l can't remember if we met in the Ambassador Hotel in Salisbury but there were plains clothes SB guys at the back of the hall taking notes & photos of the guys speaking on the stage. All that RAM wanted to do was prosecute the war with all the resources that we had. In other words, take the offensive to the enemy in neighbouring countries & not wait & react to terr incidents within Rhodesia. That was the first time that l saw civilians/territorial soldiers pissed off with the way that the RF were conducting the war
Rhodesian Action Party/RAP......the first mass meeting (
@@jurgen7579 Dankie. I knew that amongst FMOR followers there would be someone far more knowledgeable than me. I must admit we were a bit pissed off & worried about SB skulking around. A bit like the Stasi in East Germany. Hell all we were trying to do was win the war by saying to the government instead of calling us up every 6 weeks & sometimes achieving f--- all, rather have a mass call up & do something really constructive. It wasn't like we were going to overthrow I D S & his government, so it was rather worrisome having SB spooks around
Where is the Traitor Ken Flower hiding now?
Pat, what a great interview and insight.I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Thanks very much indeed!
I wonder if you had occasion to come my old school friend Ant Pittman who also held leadership positions in the British Army.
Cheers
Andy Jamison
Hi Andy - thank you for the kind comments! The name has a familiar ring but its been a while! Pat
In childhood I lived next door to the Lawless family. Pat's dad was employed by Anglo American. Pat was in Rhodesia most of the time. I wonder if Pat recalls the Apfel family next door in 6th avenue Percelia?
Very interesting story Pat , T F M hotel in Durban, now that brings back a lot of memories.
Thanks for the great stories.
God bless.
Hi Maurice, I think TFM is today a 'steak house' - used to host some great bands and music (not mine! ... I failed to add I am an enthusiastic, if crap, drummer!). Pat
@@patlawless499 Hi Pat , thanks for taking the time to reply to my comment.
Yes I can relate to your crap drumming, l'd like to think my guitar playing was up there with David Gilmore , but l'm only dreaming , had some pretty wild nights with my buddies , a couple of them were Rhodies that had fought in the bush war & had moved to S.A for a hopeful better life , we had some good times together, l will always have a soft spot in my ❤ for Rhodies & Rhodesia .
Thanks again.
Fathers Moustache in the Malibu Hotel. Lost 2 teeth in there when 4 of us decided to take on a larger number of slopes. Not our best R&R
@@pamberinehondo9447 We come from the Bluff , that's why we're tuff .
Cheers & take care.
@@Bunduki Hey Maurice you too. Just remind me, after 45 years the mind gets muddled 😂. Was there a bar/nightclub on the bluff called Pussycat!
What a great recital Pat, I was very privileged to spend time in the early days of Inf25/19 with you. Would be great if we caught up at some time over a few beers. An interesting perspective that Pat may be able to expand on ,as he touched on the strategic/political part of any military conflict, is what exactly was the political strategy of the RF govt in ending the war & achieving common political agreement. I can only assume the RF & military strategists did not believe the war was winnable due to external political influences. I did spend some time with RIC & these topics were controversial & with so much internal conflicts on the way forward, there was clearly not a clear path on the ending of the war.
Hi David - really good to be in touch with you again! You make a great point on 'strategy' to which (regrettably) there is no easy answer. In the early years after I left Zim, I read Cilliers "COIN IN Rhodesia" - a young South African Army Major's excellent MPhil thesis carefully: there are some insights there. I chair the Rhodesian Army Association in which we look after the 'Archives' - many tons of Army HQ and COMOPS documents, archived (not digitised!), currently residing in a secure location and temporarily not accessible (to prevent them being returned to Zim as a consequence of a move by some very liberal academics!). Bottom line - no evidence of any serious thinking by any Rhodesian politician on the subject of a strategy at all, much less a strategy to 'win' - whatever that might have meant! I'll hold you to that beer next time I'm in Oz on business! Pat
Much appreciate your time to respond Pat. Please get in touch when next in Perth. Cheers.
Wonderful interview and Pat talks with expert knowledge and great humility. Hope we meet up again somewhere, sometime Pat. Perhaps Westminster in November. Warmest wishes, aye. Jim
Thank you Jim. Coming from you (and knowing a little of your Rhodesian Special Forces military pedigree) that is high praise indeed! See you in November! Pat
Fascinating!
Great Stories 👍👍
Good to hear a professional soldier speaking hamba gashe ishe
A real Solder
training film at beginning. see the blank on front of FN
Correct Mike, and on the MAG. That's actually Rich Blaylock (commissioned into the Rhodesian Corps of Engineers from our course) initiating the ambush! Remains one of life's great characters! A fine Officer. When he left Zim he applied for the South African Navy as a demolitions expert. At his interview they asked if he could swim; they were not impressed by his answer: "... but I thought that's what you has ships for ...! " 😀Pat
Wao!
Pat, I stoked steam engines at Umbilo and Point in Durban in 73. When were you there ?
Hi Fraser, I was - but in 74/75 ! One of my all time favourite memories was of crewing the electric trains pulling sugar cane up into the area around Gingindlovo and back to Durban. Stoking steam engines was seriously hard work! Pat
@@patlawless499 indeed it was. I grew some muscles that year. I hope you are also writing memoirs for your kids on those crazy years. Cheers.
You are an Officer. A talker......Enjoyed this.....
These war stories are great and I cannot detract from the bravery and military expertise of the people mentioned. I am a Rhodesian and I have a little military experience which allows me to appreciate what is said. But, I ask myself, why no questions about the bigger picture? Brigadier Pat went into Iraq based on the total bullshit story of 9/11. Storming Norman was a puppet in a bigger game and I wouldn't add him to my list of heroes. Why no questions about that game? We can celebrate the exploits of "fighting men", correctly so. but questions need to be asked as to why they are asked to fight in the first place. Do we want to live in a world governed by forces who are happy to have fighting men to do their bidding,, brave and expert as they may be?
The first Iraq war in 1990/1991 was not as a result of 9/11 which happened in 2001. Iraq invaded Kuwait and the USA and its allies responded. I believe it was the first war covered by 24 hours a day news, notably by CNN.
I agree the second Iraqi war was an invasion premised on lies.
I would have thought that soldiers are not given the opportunity to investigate the lies and deceit that send them into war, they had to fight for queen and country. Why do you have to bring up the inconvenient truth? I would suggest that we the regular folks probably have been lied to and deceived during most of the wars in our lifetime & most probably history rewritten to hide the lies & deceit of past wars. Look at Russia & Ukrain right now, a war that is prolonged and egged on by the western countries based very heavily on lies, misinformation & disinformation channelled through the nefarious puppet mainstream media, lets see how that is written about in the future shall we. Anyway I digress...
Protected Villages a Disaster : Operation Turkey another absolute disaster and demonstration of lack of understanding of what was on the ground