| Veteran K9 dog handler bids farewell | |
|---|---|
| Date Published | |
| 2017/04/26 | |
| Details | |
Media Statement from Free State Media Centre Almost a century an outstanding leader from humbled origin was born. Little was known that this man who would later became a career police officer and exceptional leader in the police and work entirely as dog handler since his enlistment. The son of the soil, Warrant Officer Rudolph Johannes Pretorious joined the SAPS family shortly after he completed his matric in 1973. He had passion in policing environment, since then young Pretorious was drawn into K-9 unit. He completed his in-service training in 1977 and underwent K-9 handler’s course. He was then transferred to the BFN K-9 unit in 1978 and worked until he retires at the end of April 2017 spanning 43 years of excellent service as dog handler. 18 years of his 43 years he worked with narcotic dog known as Bucks. With his four-legged friend, he successfully made significant breakthrough by effecting 35 000 arrests. As a result he was awarded with the letter of appreciation from the office of the Presidency. In 2005, W/O Rudolph Johannes Pretorious became veterinary assistant and together with Captain Janse van Resnburg established dogs hospital in 2015 in Bloemfontein in which all police dogs in the Free State were brought for medical treatment and assessment. Thus was one of the costs saving measures of the state budget rather than taking all sick dogs to the private clinics. Through his years in the service, Pretorious enjoyed wide respect of his practical wisdom and down-to-earth style. He said it is his distant honour to be part of SAPS family, yet it sad to be saying goodbye after spending the rest of his life in the police service. The Cluster Commander, General de Wet, congratulated him and said he is among the galaxy of stars that shone like a beacon for everyone to see, you led from the front through your leadership and integrity, you made your lasting impact not only on our organization but also on our country. He quoted Richard Bach saying: "A farewell is necessary before we can meet again and meeting, after moments of your life is certain for those who are your friends." Farewell W/O Boeta Pretorious and may you and your family succeed in all your endeavour to undertake in future. -End- Media Enquiries: 082 466 7396
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService |
|
| Attachments | |
|
|
|