The Surgeon General of the South African National Defence Force, Lieutenant General Ntshavheni Peter Maphaha, led a distinguished ceremony honouring two decades of service by members of the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS). The 20-Year Long Service Medal Parade took place on 14 November 2025 at the Tempe Sports Grounds in Bloemfontein.
The event recognised the unwavering dedication, professionalism and sacrifice of SAMHS personnel who have supported the SANDF through demanding operations, medical missions and national support initiatives. Each medal awarded symbolised resilience, loyalty and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the lives of fellow soldiers and citizens.
Lieutenant General Maphaha praised the recipients for their consistent excellence and highlighted the essential role SAMHS plays in maintaining the operational readiness of the SANDF. Over the past two decades, these men and women have contributed to peacekeeping missions, border operations and emergency medical support, proving their value as a critical component of national defence.
Families, colleagues and commanders gathered to celebrate the achievements of the long-serving members, acknowledging their dedication to duty and to the values that define the SANDF: integrity, service, excellence and loyalty.
The SANDF salutes these committed professionals whose work continues to uphold the strength and resilience of South Africa’s military health service.
