The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) hands over the body of Corporal Tebogo Edwin Radebe to his family in a private military procession ceremony at Air Force Base Waterkloof, Thursday 23 December 2021.

A grand march of eight SANDF members carrying a coffin accompanied by a rather painful heartfelt cry of a parent, Corporal Tebogo Edwin Radebe makes his arrival on South African soil on his back. A bittersweet moment from family, as they sit and watch the return of their son in a coffin.

The unmarried Free State born Corporal Radebe lost his life while on duty serving in Mozambique during Operation Vikela, he was involved in an ambushed attack from insurgents and succumbed to his injuries. The country received the sad news earlier, distracting the hearts of many, taking away the joy of Christmas spirit for his family.

Covered with the South African flag, Corporal Radebe was welcomed back home in a respectful manner by fellow members, Military officials, and Veterans. From the Airforce plane to the neatly laid out red carpet, his body was formally placed at the back of the hearse respectfully by eight members.

The Chief of the SANDF General R Maphwanya “It is touching that one loss of a soldier is one too many, however we take solace that he fell with his boots on, we are proud of those who fall in the service of their county.”

South Africans took to their social media to express their heartfelt condolence to the family, showing their appreciation of the contribution the fallen hero put for the country.