A riveting account, well put together that clearly sets out many of Graemes experiences, lost to me at the time. I am Graemes older brother by about 15 yrs. Now 82 yrs old. Served a full term in the New Zealand Police. Different challenging pathways. History is a great teacher. Well done John van Zyl.
Outstanding interview! Humility at is rawest and very best. Here's something that Andy Telfer SCR (MFC Ops) and I compiled for Chibaya Moyo 2 about the RAR honours and award recipients. (Andy served with Graeme in 2RAR): Lieutenant Graeme Trass SCR I pay tribute to another outstanding member of our proud regiment, a young officer, educated at Rathkeale College in Masterton, New Zealand, who came to Rhodesia in search of ‘Chibuku’ and Mopani Worms, disliked both and quite understandably, joined the Rhodesian Regular Army as a New Zealand national, attended O.S.B. and was commissioned off Regular Officer Cadet Course Inf/25(20) on the 10th February 1978. Newly commissioned and posted to the Rhodesian Army Corps of Engineers, Graeme immediately requested a posting to an infantry unit as it had always been his intention to serve on the front line when he enlisted. Thankfully, common sense prevailed in higher echelons and Graeme was posted on attachment to the 2nd Battalion, The Rhodesian African Rifles where he was attached to B Company under the command of Major Colin ‘Nyengure’ Hendrie. The rest, as the saying goes, is history. The following profile, once again, per very kind favour of Captain Andy Telfer SCR, a fellow 2RAR Officer: ‘Graeme Trass joined B Coy, 2RAR in early 1978 as a newly commissioned 2Lt from regular cadet course Inf/25(20). ‘He was a New Zealander and shared with his more famous countryman, Sir Edmund Hillary, the tall and craggy appearance of the classic outdoorsman. It's usually the case that tall, wide-shouldered people wear a uniform well but Graeme somehow managed not to. His shoulders advanced not only far to the sides but also to the front, leaving his chest behind, and his waist was so narrow that his uniform hung like a curtain, cinched in the middle by his belt. On top of this unusual edifice, a lantern jaw and a smile as wide as a letterbox beamed out at a world, he found both amusing and adventurous. I write this with great affection as he is, without a doubt, one of the finest people I've encountered anywhere. ‘If you said his name to any RAR soldier who knew him, they would smile affectionately and tell you a story about him. Graeme was one of those one-of-a-kind characters that our Masodja loved. They knew he was brave (a pre-requisite), cared for them (another tick), and could always be counted on to do something special (the icing on the cake). They loved him. You will note in his citation how he went forward under intense fire to extricate a wounded soldier? That's what I mean. ‘Graeme had an extraordinary 'B-S Radar'. The Rhodesian Army (fortunately) didn't have too many officers who saluted themselves in the morning and adopted the affected mannerisms of the stereotypical army officer but, if one ever entered our Mess, Graeme was onto him. I'd sit back on my bar stool (or the bar counter, or in the rafters if the evening was well-advanced) and watch with amusement as Graham studied his target with fascination, then (more to amuse himself than anyone else) began to quietly mimic him, then collapsed in heaps of laughter at his own humour, while his unfortunate subject became increasingly bewildered and uncomfortable. ‘I know that he's got a huge family and I do hope that they are aware of just how fine a man their dad proved himself to be when, as a young fella, back in the day, he bumbled across a distant land doing brave things and winning the affection of all who knew him.’ The following Citation was written by Major Colin Hendrie, OC B Company, 2RAR: Citation for the award of the Silver Cross of Rhodesia, 14 September 1979, Lieutenant Graeme Leslie Trass SCR ‘Second Lieutenant Graeme Leslie Trass has served as a platoon commander in the Second Battalion, the Rhodesian African Rifles since March 1978. During this time he has been involved in numerous contacts and has been responsible for the elimination of a large number of terrorists. ‘On 10 August 1978, Second Lieutenant Trass and a patrol of four men were parachuted into a contact area during a Fireforce action. Immediately after landing, he led a sweep line towards the terrorist position. Contact was made, and all six terrorists were killed. Afterwards a patrol of four men was pinned down in open ground by four terrorists hiding in a rocky outcrop. Second Lieutenant Trass and three men were directed to assist. Without hesitation, he led the patrol across the open ground and skirmished through the terrorists' position, the whole time being subjected to intense terrorist fire. In all, four terrorists were killed. In this engagement, a total of ten terrorists were eliminated, due largely to the coolness and leadership of Second Lieutenant Trass. ‘On 28 August 1978, a patrol of four men, commanded by an officer, was fired on by two terrorists at very close range. The officer was wounded, and the patrol forced to withdraw in the face of heavy fire. Repeated air attacks failed to dislodge the terrorists. Second Lieutenant Trass and one man skirmished across open ground under fire, and assaulted the terrorist position, killing both terrorists at close quarters. ‘On 7 December 1978, a patrol of four men was fired upon by three terrorists entrenched in a narrow and thickly-wooded re-entrant. The officer was wounded, and the patrol forced to withdraw. Subsequent air attacks failed to eliminate the terrorists. Second Lieutenant Trass, leading seven men, attempted to sweep through the terrorist position. At ten metres' range, the terrorists fired upon his men, seriously wounding the machine gunner, who fell within a few yards of the terrorists. His men were forced to withdraw to cover. In the fading light, and believing that the machine gunner was still alive, Second Lieutenant Trass crawled forward and extricated him, under fire from within a few metres of the terrorist, showing great personal courage in so doing. ‘On these and other occasions, Second Lieutenant Trass has shown disregard for his own safety, displaying courage and aggressive leadership of the highest order. His conduct has been an inspiration to all who have served with him.’ Post Scriptum: We who know Graeme, speak of him in the most respectful and glowing terms; an unassuming man who let his actions do the talking for him. His leadership and repeated acts of gallantry under fire are the true hallmark of every recipient of our Country’s second highest gallantry award. His good wife Sharon, and their children, should read this tribute and his Citation and remember that they are in the company of a just, upright and good man. Respected by all in our Regiment and our Army; we are indebted to him for his service to Rhodesia and the RAR and we are very pleased to honour him in this small, important but very symbolic way.
Hey Russell, I remember you from Tower house Ft Vic high. I skivvied for Gids Nel and your boet Tom before going to Chaplin to compete schooling and joined BSAP in Jan 78. Now retired in Sedgefield and love it. Where you these days?
Excellent interview. Thank you Graeme, and of course also much appreciation to both Hannes and John for the incredible work done to bring this Rhodesian story and history to the public.
Many thanks Graeme . John and Hannes . A wonderful insight from a foreign fighter . Gratitude Graeme for your service to the green and white respect and salute 🙏🏻 appreciate your time ! . Hannes well said .. the best years of our lives I feel was during the war years .. strange thing to say but I was a time we all shall never forget. A bond and a band of brothers!
A great talk, thanks for your efforts for Rhodesia. Graeme seemed to have had a busy 2 years of war and knew the names and respected all his RAR soldiers. Great respect.
Thank you Hannes and John for another great interview of a very unassuming man who was a member of our cadet course. Well done Graeme from another Graeme
Mr Trass can certainly tell a solid humble story based on excellent recollections and courageous past experience. A good listen…….😁🍺 Thank you for your contribution sir….
A fantastic interview. Well done Graeme, John and Hannes. I have a 2 RAR plaque, regimental tie and cravat. They were given to me by Capt Bob Cod (double-barrel surname) when he was on a course in the RSA and stayed in the SAAF College Officers Mess in 1975. He had lost two fingers on one hand, after his hand got caught in a strop during a para jump.
Thank's! Very intresting interview as allways👍 I really like listen to your talks in the car while driving,it is a highlight of everyday life. A great channel who enlight a troubbled time in history.. Keep up the good work 👍😊
The story of Terry Roach so illustrates how relaxed , friendly and direct Rhodesians are, I think we could say that our motto was “ treat me like I treat you- show me I can’t trust you , but until then , you’re ok” Again I must compliment Graeme for his excellent taste in ladies for wives!!
Graeme is clearly an incredible individual. I found it interesting when he mentioned Captain Kevin Smith (NZ’er) was Company 2 ic Kevin and I worked together in Iraq for several years. Thank you for a great interview
I knew a few Kiwis who served in Rhodesia when I was in the NZ Army - wonder if you found any more. K Smith was chief instructor at school of feet/infantry (Waiouru - mid 80s) then OC spt company 2/1 BN (early 90s) before leaving the NZ Army......or something like that. I remember Trevor Voigt showing me his pics of his time in the bush war but can't remember what unit he was with.
Thanks to Graeme for taking the time to sit and chat about the good old days - from a Rhodesian living on the South Island.
A riveting account, well put together that clearly sets out many of Graemes experiences, lost to me at the time. I am Graemes older brother by about 15 yrs. Now 82 yrs old.
Served a full term in the New Zealand Police. Different challenging pathways. History is a great teacher. Well done John van Zyl.
Outstanding interview! Humility at is rawest and very best.
Here's something that Andy Telfer SCR (MFC Ops) and I compiled for Chibaya Moyo 2 about the RAR honours and award recipients. (Andy served with Graeme in 2RAR):
Lieutenant Graeme Trass SCR
I pay tribute to another outstanding member of our proud regiment, a young officer, educated at Rathkeale College in Masterton, New Zealand, who came to Rhodesia in search of ‘Chibuku’ and Mopani Worms, disliked both and quite understandably, joined the Rhodesian Regular Army as a New Zealand national, attended O.S.B. and was commissioned off Regular Officer Cadet Course Inf/25(20) on the 10th February 1978. Newly commissioned and posted to the Rhodesian Army Corps of Engineers, Graeme immediately requested a posting to an infantry unit as it had always been his intention to serve on the front line when he enlisted. Thankfully, common sense prevailed in higher echelons and Graeme was posted on attachment to the 2nd Battalion, The Rhodesian African Rifles where he was attached to B Company under the command of Major Colin ‘Nyengure’ Hendrie. The rest, as the saying goes, is history.
The following profile, once again, per very kind favour of Captain Andy Telfer SCR, a fellow 2RAR Officer:
‘Graeme Trass joined B Coy, 2RAR in early 1978 as a newly commissioned 2Lt from regular cadet course Inf/25(20).
‘He was a New Zealander and shared with his more famous countryman, Sir Edmund Hillary, the tall and craggy appearance of the classic outdoorsman. It's usually the case that tall, wide-shouldered people wear a uniform well but Graeme somehow managed not to. His shoulders advanced not only far to the sides but also to the front, leaving his chest behind, and his waist was so narrow that his uniform hung like a curtain, cinched in the middle by his belt. On top of this unusual edifice, a lantern jaw and a smile as wide as a letterbox beamed out at a world, he found both amusing and adventurous. I write this with great affection as he is, without a doubt, one of the finest people I've encountered anywhere.
‘If you said his name to any RAR soldier who knew him, they would smile affectionately and tell you a story about him. Graeme was one of those one-of-a-kind characters that our Masodja loved. They knew he was brave (a pre-requisite), cared for them (another tick), and could always be counted on to do something special (the icing on the cake). They loved him. You will note in his citation how he went forward under intense fire to extricate a wounded soldier? That's what I mean.
‘Graeme had an extraordinary 'B-S Radar'. The Rhodesian Army (fortunately) didn't have too many officers who saluted themselves in the morning and adopted the affected mannerisms of the stereotypical army officer but, if one ever entered our Mess, Graeme was onto him. I'd sit back on my bar stool (or the bar counter, or in the rafters if the evening was well-advanced) and watch with amusement as Graham studied his target with fascination, then (more to amuse himself than anyone else) began to quietly mimic him, then collapsed in heaps of laughter at his own humour, while his unfortunate subject became increasingly bewildered and uncomfortable.
‘I know that he's got a huge family and I do hope that they are aware of just how fine a man their dad proved himself to be when, as a young fella, back in the day, he bumbled across a distant land doing brave things and winning the affection of all who knew him.’
The following Citation was written by Major Colin Hendrie, OC B Company, 2RAR:
Citation for the award of the Silver Cross of Rhodesia, 14 September 1979, Lieutenant Graeme Leslie Trass SCR
‘Second Lieutenant Graeme Leslie Trass has served as a platoon commander in the Second Battalion, the Rhodesian African Rifles since March 1978. During this time he has been involved in numerous contacts and has been responsible for the elimination of a large number of terrorists.
‘On 10 August 1978, Second Lieutenant Trass and a patrol of four men were parachuted into a contact area during a Fireforce action. Immediately after landing, he led a sweep line towards the terrorist position. Contact was made, and all six terrorists were killed. Afterwards a patrol of four men was pinned down in open ground by four terrorists hiding in a rocky outcrop. Second Lieutenant Trass and three men were directed to assist. Without hesitation, he led the patrol across the open ground and skirmished through the terrorists' position, the whole time being subjected to intense terrorist fire. In all, four terrorists were killed. In this engagement, a total of ten terrorists were eliminated, due largely to the coolness and leadership of Second Lieutenant Trass.
‘On 28 August 1978, a patrol of four men, commanded by an officer, was fired on by two terrorists at very close range. The officer was wounded, and the patrol forced to withdraw in the face of heavy fire. Repeated air attacks failed to dislodge the terrorists. Second Lieutenant Trass and one man skirmished across open ground under fire, and assaulted the terrorist position, killing both terrorists at close quarters.
‘On 7 December 1978, a patrol of four men was fired upon by three terrorists entrenched in a narrow and thickly-wooded re-entrant. The officer was wounded, and the patrol forced to withdraw. Subsequent air attacks failed to eliminate the terrorists. Second Lieutenant Trass, leading seven men, attempted to sweep through the terrorist position. At ten metres' range, the terrorists fired upon his men, seriously wounding the machine gunner, who fell within a few yards of the terrorists. His men were forced to withdraw to cover. In the fading light, and believing that the machine gunner was still alive, Second Lieutenant Trass crawled forward and extricated him, under fire from within a few metres of the terrorist, showing great personal courage in so doing.
‘On these and other occasions, Second Lieutenant Trass has shown disregard for his own safety, displaying courage and aggressive leadership of the highest order. His conduct has been an inspiration to all who have served with him.’
Post Scriptum:
We who know Graeme, speak of him in the most respectful and glowing terms; an unassuming man who let his actions do the talking for him. His leadership and repeated acts of gallantry under fire are the true hallmark of every recipient of our Country’s second highest gallantry award. His good wife Sharon, and their children, should read this tribute and his Citation and remember that they are in the company of a just, upright and good man. Respected by all in our Regiment and our Army; we are indebted to him for his service to Rhodesia and the RAR and we are very pleased to honour him in this small, important but very symbolic way.
Enjoyed reading your comment Russel . Thank you for all the details provided.
Hey Russell, I remember you from Tower house Ft Vic high. I skivvied for Gids Nel and your boet Tom before going to Chaplin to compete schooling and joined BSAP in Jan 78. Now retired in Sedgefield and love it. Where you these days?
Most excellent talk from a brave and unassuming character
Excellent interview. Thank you Graeme, and of course also much appreciation to both Hannes and John for the incredible work done to bring this Rhodesian story and history to the public.
Many thanks Graeme . John and Hannes . A wonderful insight from a foreign fighter . Gratitude Graeme for your service to the green and white respect and salute 🙏🏻 appreciate your time ! . Hannes well said .. the best years of our lives I feel was during the war years .. strange thing to say but I was a time we all shall never forget. A bond and a band of brothers!
Loved this story…. what a treat this series has been.
Thank you so much Graeme for your service to our people and beautiful country.
My only complaint is that pinched one of our beautiful girls!! Ah but at least you married her and looked after her. Good luck mate
Wyt Barnard
A great talk, thanks for your efforts for Rhodesia. Graeme seemed to have had a busy 2 years of war and knew the names and respected all his RAR soldiers. Great respect.
Really enjoyed listening to Graeme. Thank you Graeme for your service to the people of Rhodesia .
Thank you Hannes and John for another great interview of a very unassuming man who was a member of our cadet course. Well done Graeme from another Graeme
Another great interview. Well done for saving these great stories. Hannes and Jon well done
Mr Trass can certainly tell a solid humble story based on excellent recollections and courageous past experience.
A good listen…….😁🍺
Thank you for your contribution sir….
ThankYou ! The Series, & the Veterans’Interviewed, Form an Important Historical Document to Be Remembered.
Thanks again, & More Power to You All ! 👍
A fantastic interview. Well done Graeme, John and Hannes.
I have a 2 RAR plaque, regimental tie and cravat. They were given to me by Capt Bob Cod (double-barrel surname) when he was on a course in the RSA and stayed in the SAAF College Officers Mess in 1975. He had lost two fingers on one hand, after his hand got caught in a strop during a para jump.
I met this guy he gave a lecture at Inkomo,I think he lost his fingers on a fence post.
@@stormywindmill negative!, as exiting the A/C, the strop not cleared out the way properly, as exiting the door, wrapped around his left hand
Bob Warren Codrington ex SAS
Great days, great interview - thanks guys again.
Thank's!
Very intresting interview as allways👍
I really like listen to your talks in the car while driving,it is a highlight of everyday life.
A great channel who enlight a troubbled time in history..
Keep up the good work 👍😊
Good interview! Little trivia, both today and yesterday, listening to the vid, exactly one hour behind what the clock shows!
Once again the RAR PROVED THEIR METTLE Salute!
Another top detailed recollection of the events from way back. Thank you for your service Graeme and good luck with the forthcoming book.
Graeme best wishes from Kenya, we had a few punch ups buddy. Hope you are well. Beaver Shaw.
Excellent interview
Such a great interview. Hugh Bomford was my MAG gunner.
Thanks to all of the Fighting Men of Rhodesia!
Brave soldier yet with a soft heart. Thanks for stopping and rescuing the Rhodesian ridgeback and returning it home to the Selous Scouts.
The story of Terry Roach so illustrates how relaxed , friendly and direct Rhodesians are, I think we could say that our motto was “ treat me like I treat you- show me I can’t trust you , but until then , you’re ok”
Again I must compliment Graeme for his excellent taste in ladies for wives!!
Thank you.
Respect 🙏🤜🤛👍😉 wish you from Waikato and hope you support the chiefs 💯 Percent correct.
Graeme is clearly an incredible individual. I found it interesting when he mentioned Captain Kevin Smith (NZ’er) was Company 2 ic
Kevin and I worked together in Iraq for several years.
Thank you for a great interview
BRILLIANT
My family live in Taupo NZ!
I knew a few Kiwis who served in Rhodesia when I was in the NZ Army - wonder if you found any more. K Smith was chief instructor at school of feet/infantry (Waiouru - mid 80s) then OC spt company 2/1 BN (early 90s) before leaving the NZ Army......or something like that. I remember Trevor Voigt showing me his pics of his time in the bush war but can't remember what unit he was with.
Its amazing what the Army did with so little. They stayed very professional all the way to the end in 1980. Great story
Good interview mate. I know an old kiwi sea dog who wishes he joined up back then.
Another great account!
An exceptional read by a New Zealander is the book " Bandit Mentality " hunting insurgents in the Bush war, by Kiwi O Brien.
John you wouldn't be jb Smith from Salisbury by any chance,,?
@@piccaninkaffir6073 JS is not my real name.
Good read
@@AnnE-mn8ny That's not how I read it. I took it as more as " if this this and this was done things might be different"
The officer with the monocle was certainly col. Lionel von Dyke, to give him his full name.
Is that a Texan cough or a Madison cough Graeme?!
Hi John! Is Hannes Wessels related to a PH named Quintin who was working for a few outfitters about 7yrs ago? 👍
Could be, I'll ask him
@@fightingmenofrhodesia Appreciate it! Thanks. 👍
Taupo. Nice place, just bloody cold
Super interesting gents
Ha ha haaaaaa! Gotta love this one ....
Charlie Tango's?
Communist Terrorists ;)
Thank you.
I hate adverts, but I do make an exception here , hope you get the revenue from adverts that I allow to run.
Much appreciated, thanks John!
Fort Victoria
⁶
What >is the chance/ that they honor ROADISIA.
=Rhodesia %got it right
Your nickname, "Muroyi" means witch
And his mtagati was powerful