About Me

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I saw active service in conventional, clandestine and covert units of the South African Defence Force. I was the founder of the Private Military Company (PMC) Executive Outcomes in 1989 and its chairman until I left in 1997. Until its closure in 1998, EO operated primarily in Africa helping African governments that had been abandoned by the West and were facing threats from insurgencies, terrorism and organised crime. EO also operated in South America and the Far East. I believe that only Africans (Black and White) can truly solve Africa’s problems. I was appointed Chairman of STTEP International in 2009 and also lecture at military colleges and universities in Africa on defence, intelligence and security issues. Prior to the STTEP International appointment, I served as an independent politico-military advisor to several African governments. Until recently, I was a contributing editor to The Counter Terrorist magazine. All comments in line with the topics on this blog are welcome. As I consider this to be a serious look at military and security matters, foul language and political or religious debates will not be entertained on this blog.

Monday, February 11, 2013

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR 2013


I apologise for being late this year in wishing my Chinese friends a very happy New Year – a traditional Chinese celebration that began yesterday, 10 February 2013.  

The Chinese New Year (also known as the Lunar New Year) takes place in the early months of our calendar year, typically in January or February. In 2013, the Lunar New Year began on 10th February and its beginning marks 15 days of celebration and the start of the Year of the Snake.

The celebrations will culminate in the Lantern Festival on 25th February.

According to Chinese tradition, each year is dedicated to a specific animal, these being the following 12 animals:  Boar, Dragon, Dog, Horse, Monkey, Ox, Rat, Rabbit, Ram, Rooster, Snake and Tiger. It is believed that each of these animals bestow their characteristics to the people born in their year.

The Year of the Snake (2013) heralds the end of the Year of the Dragon (2012).

May you all have a very happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Snake.

Gong Xi Fa Ca and Gong Hei Fa Choi!
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