By Aerusha Jenal Lalbahadur
Reaching the summit of his Naval journey, Warrant Officer, Kevin Errol Anthony, has hung up his hat after 42-years of dedicated service to the country of South Africa.
Anthony retired as the last serving member of the 1980 intake (FORCE 80), on 31 August 2022. Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, the father to four boys and adored grandfather, said he is a firm believer of his religion and encourages his kids to put God first in everything that they do.
Anthony said he is looking forward to relaxing and calm days that he will be spending among his loved ones. Born in the city of Durban in 1962, Anthony joined the South African Navy in 1980 and started his basic training at South African Ship Jalsena.
“I completed two years of Voluntary National Service Men (VNSM). Thereafter I completed my Marine Basic Training in 1982. He was involved in border duties at Oshikathi in 1982 and Katima Mulilo in 1985. I later qualified as a Marine Instructor and HPB Coxswain Instructor, as well as Basic Training Instructor for SAS JALSENA in 1992,” said the retired naval officer.
Anthony later served as a Basic Training Instructor for the SAS Saldana from 1993 to 1994 and as Boatmaster of NAVAL Stn DBN from 1995 to 2005.
“I was promoted to Warrant Officer 2 in 2001 and was the GI of Naval Base Dbn from 2007 to 2021. I establish a Naval Presence in Burundi in 2003 for a period of six months and served a further six months under the UN in 2005. I was the SA Navy Battalion WO for the State President inauguration at Loftus Versveld and was the NAVAL Base Durban Adjutant 2021 to date of retirement,” said Anthony.
Not only has the loyal officer dedicated his life to serving his country but he has also made time for sports as he attained SANDF colours for badminton and represented the SA Navy in cricket and soccer.
Speaking highly of Warrant Officer Anthony, Marine Raees Vawda, passed his gratitude for Anthony’s dedication, honour, integrity and courage.
He said: “The South African Navy Marine Core Executive committee extends to Kevin and Tanya our profound blessings in their future endeavours. WO2 KE Anthony retires after 42 years and eight months of service. Best wishes on your well-deserved retirement. May God be with you for the best adventure of your life. We salute a legend.”
