Nongqai Vol 17 No 7A – W/O JR David

 

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

FOREVER REMEMBERED – THE FIRST AND ONLY INDIAN CHIEF SERGEANT AND SPECIAL GRADE CHIEF SERGEANT BASED IN THE NATAL MIDLANDS DIVISION

MOUNTAIN RISE, PIETERMARITZBURG

WARRANT OFFICER JOHN RAYMOND DAVID

Cover photo

Senior Sergeant JR David during the 1950’s

Names

• John Raymond David
• Estcourt
• South African Police Service (SAPS)
• Police Officer
• Leader
• Mentor
• Community
• Family
• Service
• Integrity

Keywords

Leadership,

Dedication,

Courage,

Honesty,

Discipline,

Service,

Justice,

Perseverance,

Humility,

Commitment,

Policing,

Community,

Mentorship,

Resilience,

Legacy.

Abstract

John Raymond David’s life is a story of hard work, determination and service.
He was born in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and grew up with strong family values.
From a young age, he dreamed of making a difference.
Through dedication, he built a respected career in the police service.
He faced many challenges but never gave up.
His leadership, honesty and courage earned the respect of others.
He always believed in serving the community with fairness and compassion.
His journey shows the importance of discipline and perseverance.
His achievements continue to inspire future generations.
His legacy is one of honour, integrity and lifelong public service.

FOREWORD

It is both an honour and a privilege to introduce and pay tribute to a true legend, a remarkable man whose life reflects dedication, courage, humility and service.

This is more than the story of a successful police member. It is the story of a young man from the streets of Estcourt who dared to dream and then worked tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality through hard work, determination and sacrifice.

Born into a humble and hardworking family that valued honesty, respect and perseverance, Uncle John Raymond David learnt from an early age that success is not measured by wealth or status, but by commitment and integrity. These values guided him throughout his life and became the foundation of an extraordinary career in the South African Police.

He was born in the Natal Midlands town of Estcourt. As a young boy, he began working to help supplement his family’s modest income. In return for his labour, he was given two horses, which he later exchanged for two cows. The cows provided milk to support the family’s daily needs. Even at a young age, he showed resourcefulness, responsibility and a willingness to work hard for the benefit of others.

On 14 April 1947, he seized the opportunity to join the South African Police Force at Colenso. He served faithfully, loyally and with distinction until his retirement on 07 March 1985, dedicating more than four decades of his life to public service.

During 1966 he was transferred to SA Police, Mountain Rise.

Throughout his career, he rose through the non-commissioned ranks, progressing from Second Class Sergeant to Special Grade Chief Sergeant. By the early 1970s, he had earned promotion to the rank of Warrant Officer through merit, experience and outstanding service.

While it is not my intention to revisit the injustices of the past, it is important that history records the facts as they were. In researching and documenting the achievements of Indian members in the South African Police, one cannot overlook the unfortunate circumstances that affected this distinguished man’s career.

In the mid-1970s, the South African Government decided to extend commissioned ranks to Black, Coloured and Indian members. By every measure, Uncle David was deserving of inclusion in that pioneering group. His experience, leadership, service record and reputation made him a natural candidate. Yet fate dealt him a cruel hand.

Although he should have been among the first group selected, he was overlooked. I won’t speculate about why he was overlooked, and it would not be fair to blame the system without knowing the full facts. Whatever the reason, it is unlikely that we will ever know the full story. Through circumstances, whether of his own making or otherwise, he missed the opportunity to become one of the first Indian commissioned officers from Pietermaritzburg.

Only two Indian members were selected, while this highly respected and deserving officer was left out. As a result, he missed the chance to become one of the first Indian commissioned officers from Pietermaritzburg. In fact, no Indian member from Pietermaritzburg attained commissioned rank until 1974 viz, Lieutenant Bob Sewpersad.

Captain Bob Sewpersad

History will always record the names of those who received those promotions. However, it should also remember those who, in my opinion, were equally deserving but were denied the same opportunity. Uncle David’s omission was not, in my view, a reflection of his ability, dedication or leadership. Rather, it was the result of circumstances that remain unknown to us.

Another senior Indian police officer who suffered the same fate was Special Grade Chief Sergeant VR Moodley, the former Branch Commander of the Criminal Investigation Department, Unit 02, Chatsworth. Despite serving with dedication for more than 39 years, he retired in 1972 with the rank of Special Grade Chief Sergeant.

Despite this setback, Uncle David continued to serve with dignity, professionalism and unwavering commitment. He never allowed disappointment to diminish his devotion to duty. Instead, he remained a respected leader, mentor and role model to those who served alongside him.

Today, we honour not only his achievements, but also his resilience in the face of adversity. His legacy is not defined by the rank he was denied, but by the character he displayed, the lives he touched and the example he set for future generations.

Uncle John Raymond David remains a true legend whose story deserves to be remembered, celebrated and preserved. We salute and celebrate the service he rendered.

Logan Govender – [LG]

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

FOREVER REMEMBERED – THE FIRST AND ONLY INDIAN CHIEF SERGEANT AND SPECIAL GRADE CHIEF SERGEANT BASED IN THE NATAL MIDLANDS DIVISION

MOUNTAIN RISE, PIETERMARITZBURG

WARRANT OFFICER JOHN RAYMOND DAVID

Senior Sergeant JR David during the 1950’s

The handsome Uncle David sporting a beard

This was supper at my home, celebrating the occasion of the Medal Parade at the Northdale Stadium circa 1968 / 1969 after my Dad was awarded The South African Police Star for Merit for 30years of Faithful Service and Exemplary Conduct

Uncle David at the head of the table; Kistan Naidoo to his right and Kassen to his left, with Bob Sewpersad next.

(Courtesy Logan Govender – [LG])

(Researched, authored, edited and prepared for publication by Logan Govender – [LG])

“The Nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten.”
– Calvin Coolidge

[LG]

AUTHOR’S NOTE

This edition of the Special Nongqai is dedicated solely to the ONE and ONLY Chief Sergeant and Special Grade Chief Sergeant who served in the South African Police at Mountain Rise, Pietermaritzburg, in the Natal Midlands Region during the 1960’s. Their appointments were of great historical significance among Non-White policemen during the height of the Apartheid era. To help illustrate the period and provide historical context, I have included additional photographs and incidents that reflect the timeline of events.

During this period, the regulations of the Police Act and Standing Orders clearly distinguished between White and Non-White members of the South African Police. All White members, regardless of rank, were regarded as superior to every Non-White member, irrespective of their rank or experience. This publication does not seek to place emphasis on these policies in that era, but rather to record them accurately as part of South Africa’s history. There were many White individuals who worked well with us and had friendly relationships with Non-White members. However, the laws of the country at the time prevented these relationships from becoming closer.

It is well known that my father served as a Sergeant in the South African Police. Through him, I was exposed to many stories, discussions, and painful experiences shared by serving members. I heard first-hand about the disappointment, frustration, and sense of injustice felt by many Non-White policemen. Although they served loyally, gained valuable experience, and made significant sacrifices, they were prevented from being promoted to the rank of Warrant Officer, a rank that was available to their White counterparts ONLY at the time.

This unequal treatment left lasting scars on many dedicated policemen. Some believed that one reason for this discrimination was that a Warrant Officer was traditionally addressed as “Meneer” or “Sir” and carried a cane as a symbol of authority and status. Under the discriminatory laws and attitudes of the time, it was considered unacceptable for Non-White members to enjoy the same recognition and standing. Whether this was the actual reason or not, the outcome remained the same. Deserving men were denied the rank, recognition, status, and dignity they had rightfully earned.

The achievements of those who attained the ranks of Chief Sergeant and Special Grade Chief Sergeant should therefore be viewed within the context of the severe limitations and obstacles that existed at the time. Their dedication, professionalism, and perseverance allowed them to reach positions that were highly respected, despite the barriers placed before them by an unjust system.

Today, their stories form an important part of the history of the South African Police. By recording and preserving these accounts, we honour the service of those who performed their duties with commitment and integrity, often under extremely difficult circumstances. Their experiences remind us of the challenges faced by many members and contribute to a fuller understanding of South Africa’s policing history.

It was only on 01^st July 1970 that the first Non-Whites in the South African Police were finally commissioned as Officers. While this was a historic milestone, it does not erase the years of unfairness and missed opportunities suffered by those who came before them.

I trust that this explanation provides some understanding of this difficult chapter in our history, unless surviving predecessors or senior officers can one day offer further clarity.

[LG]

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

MECHANICAL SCHOOL, BENONI

CLASS 1

MARCH- APRIL, 1966

Standing, L-R, 5^th, Indian Chief Sergeant JR David

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

MECHANICAL SCHOOL, BENONI

GROUP MARCH – APRIL, 1966

Third row, L-R, 4^th Indian Chief Sergeant JR David

ARNOLD LEWIS DAVID

This short insert is by the only surviving sibling of Uncle David. He is currently 89 years old.

John was born in Estcourt and went to the Windsor primary school. He was an avid soccer player.

He worked as a waiter in Drakensburg, and they gave him 2 horses. He went back to Estcourt and traded them for cows. The family survived on the produce of the cows and he thereafter sold them to Morgan’s Farm and became a policeman in Colenso where he met his wife, and all his kids were born there. He was later transferred to Pietermaritzburg.

Arnold is the only surviving sibling of 13 kids. He is the youngest. John was the eldest.

SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE

FOREVER REMEMBERED – THE FIRST AND ONLY INDIAN CHIEF SERGEANT AND SPECIAL GRADE CHIEF SERGEANT BASED IN THE NATAL MIDLANDS DIVISION

MOUNTAIN RISE, PIETERMARITZBURG

WARRANT OFFICER JOHN RAYMOND DAVID

I first came to know Uncle John Raymond David in the early 1960’s through my Dad, Sergeant Mariemuthu, who served with the South African Police. Dad and Uncle David became colleagues when Uncle David was transferred from the South African Police in Estcourt, in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, to the South African Police in Mountain Rise.

Recipients and dignitaries after being awarded their service medals by The Divisional Commissioner, Brigadier WT Murray circa 1967/8, Northdale Stadium, Pietermaritzburg

(Courtesy family of Sergeant Abbay Pappa Naidu)

Seated, L-R, Sergeants Abbay Pappa Naidu; Mariemuthu; “The Brigadier is indeed Brig. Piet Kemp was the Divisional Inspector. Did not tolerate any nonsense very strict.” – Major General Dirk Schoeman; Brigadier WT Murray, The Divisional Commissioner, Natal Inland Region; Constable Budoo – Greytown; Detective Sergeant Pakkiry

Standing, background far left, Detective Sergeant Narainsamy Naidoo (wearing sunglasses)

My Dad, Sergeant Mariemuthu

(Courtesy – [LG])

To me, he became “Uncle David,” a name spoken with deep affection and respect. I clearly remember that for a period, Dad and Uncle David shared an office situated next to that of the Station Commander. (It was either Warrant Officer Steyn or Theunis Nel. – [LG])

His helmet, like the one shown below, a brown leather bag, and a pipe held between his lips made him stand out from the rest. There was a quiet confidence about him, the kind that drew attention without him saying a word. He carried himself with the calm assurance of someone who had seen much and feared little. He was a big, strongly built man, but he spoke softly and with care. He carried himself with quiet confidence and a natural sense of dignity.

Police helmet used by Non-White members from the late 1950’s to the late 1970’s

(Courtesy Lieutenant-Colonel YA Haffajee’s Dads helmet)

Not long after his arrival, Uncle David became a regular visitor to our family home. We lived in one of only two houses in the exclusive white residential suburb of Mountain Rise, about a ten-minute walk from the police station. His visits were always warmly welcomed, and over time he became much more than my Dad’s colleague, he became part of our family circle.

As a young boy during school holidays, I often had the privilege of taking them tea in an aluminium teapot and snacks to the station for Dad and Uncle David during their morning and afternoon tea breaks as existing kitchen facilities were strictly prohibited for use to Non-Whites members in those days. These short moments remain treasured memories. At the time, I did not fully understand the significance of the men I was serving tea to, but as the years passed, I came to appreciate the dedication, discipline, and service they represented, and the utmost respect SAP members and the community directed to them.

Besides being an enthusiastic reader, he spoke and wrote English and Afrikaans very well. Uncle David also looked after a vegetable garden at the back of the station and spent much of his free time caring for it.

He also maintained the best rose garden in the area where he lived. People came from far and wide to admire the care and beauty of his flower garden.

He enjoyed spending Saturday mornings tending to his vegetable garden at the rear of the station. I used to intently watch him whilst he was in the garden.

For historical purposes, I would also like to include the following information.

Behind the old police station were three corrugated iron cells. One was used for female prisoners, while the other two were reserved for male prisoners. These cells were located about 300 metres behind the main station building.

There was also an open-plan kitchen. The left and right sides were open, and a built-in coal stove was positioned at the far end as you entered the enclosure.

Uncle David’s large vegetable garden was situated directly behind this enclosure, near its entrance.

The Station Commander, Warrant Officer Steyn, owned a brand-new Mercedes-Benz, which was always parked under a carport built from creosote timber poles.

The petrol bowser was located some distance behind the carport, roughly in line with the cell block.

The charge office was divided into two sections. One entrance was reserved for white people, while the other was for non-white people. In practice, however, everyone, including white people, often used the non-white entrance. A door in the partition allowed white police members and officers to pass through the non-white section to reach the back of the station, rather than having to walk around the outside of the building.

I remember that one of his younger sons was an Electrical Engineer in the Electricity Department of the City of Pietermaritzburg, while another worked in the Fire Department under Protection Services.

Dad often spoke very highly of Uncle David, describing him as an intelligent man, highly knowledgeable, and exceptionally skilled in police work. He was respected not only for his professionalism but also for his wisdom, experience, and his calm manner and demeanour. It was clear that he earned the admiration of those who worked alongside him.

After his arrival, Uncle David was promoted to the newly created rank of Chief Sergeant. This rank, at the time, was specifically created for Non-White members of the police force. It was a significant achievement and recognition of his outstanding service.

Prominent Community Leaders and policemen at a function. Taken circa early 1970’s

L-R, Unidentified; Aaron Bernard Pillay; My Dad, Mariemuthu; Somaru; Unidentified; Uncle David; Unidentified

First Holy Communion of eldest daughter, Elaine Charmaine Ruthanum née David

Chief Sergeant Subramonia Pillai, one of the first Indian Chief Sergeants in the South African Police during early 1960’s, possibly 1964

(Courtesy SARP Magazine – May, 1966 Page 55 and Nongqai Archives)

Depiction of the rank structure, insignia worn by the Chief Sergeants in the day

(Courtesy Mr Michael Huxtable)

This photograph was taken prior to 1^st September 1965. The proposed site of the Unit 02, Chatsworth Police Station. S Pillai was still a Chief Sergeant at the time

L-R, Chief Sergeant S Pillai; Warrant Officer “Sterk” Gert M Smit

(Photograph courtesy of the family of Lieutenant-Colonel S Pillay. Kindly colourised by Ms Jenny Bosch)

Official opening of SA Police, Unit 02, Chatsworth Police Station on 1965-09-01

(Courtesy Brigadier Hennie Heymans)

L-R, Warrant Officer “Sterk” Gert M Smit; Chief Sergeant Subramonia Pillay; Colonel CC von Keyserlingk, Divisional Commissioner, Port Natal Region; Unidentified Officer in summer uniform

Official opening of SA Police, Unit 02, Chatsworth Police Station on 1965-09-01

(Courtesy Brigadier Hennie Heymans)

L-R, Colonel CC von Keyserlingk, Divisional Commissioner, Port Natal Region; Unidentified Officer in summer uniform; Chief Sergeant Subramonia Pillay

I later learnt that the only other Indian officer in Durban to hold a similar distinction at that time was Chief Sergeant Subramonia Pillai; who was promoted to Special Grade Chief Sergeant on 1 September 1967. Uncle David’s promotion could have taken place around the same time, or shortly thereafter.

Members of SA Police, Mountain Rise, around a new motorcycle issued to the station circa early 1970’s

Squatting, left David Holby

Behind the handlebars, Sergeant JR David

On his left, Captain Bob Sewpersad

Next to Captain Sewpersad, Constable D Sadhoe and Captain R Michael next to him

There were only two licensed authorised bike riders in the day D Holby and D Sadhoe

A depiction of the rank structure / insignia worn by the Special Grade Chief Sergeants in the day

(Courtesy Mr Michael Huxtable)

These were not ordinary achievements. They represented years of sacrifice, dedication, and excellence under difficult circumstances. Men like Uncle David paved the way for others through their hard work, commitment, and unwavering sense of duty.

On 1 July 1970, Chief Sergeant Subramonia Pillai and Nelson Kabalamurthi Nayager attended the first Candidate Officer’s Course at the New Modder Training Institution. They successfully qualified and were commissioned as officers from that date.

However, it came as a great surprise to many that two other equally deserving and highly respected men were not included in that historic group. Both have since passed on, and perhaps the reasons will never be fully known. Time has taken them, and with it many unanswered questions.

Yet what remains is their legacy.

This tribute is dedicated not only to John Raymond David, but also to all those officers whose service, commitment, and sacrifice may not always have received the recognition they truly deserved.

Their contributions will not be forgotten. Their names live on in the memories of those who knew them, worked with them, and respected them.

May their souls rest in eternal peace.

We remember you.
We honour you.
We salute you, Sir.

Uncle David, far right with his family at the first birthday of his eldest granddaughter Sandra Pillay on 1971-11-23

(Courtesy daughter of AL David)

The old Mountain Rise, Police Station

The Station Commander occupied the office located far left on the ground floor. My Dad and Uncle David occupied the office directly behind the Station Commander during the 1960’s. According to Lieutenant-Colonel Yusuf Pipes Haffajee, Special Grade Chief Sergeant occupied the office directly above the Station Commander during the 1970’s.

The old Mountain Rise Police, until the 1980’s

The new building that replaced the old during early 1980’s

Members rehearsing for the Guard of Honour at the wedding of David Holby during the 1970’s

Facing the front, 2^nd from left JR David

Reserve Warrant Officer AAC Haffajee was one of the members of the guard of honour

Guard of Honour performed by members of SA Police, Mountain Rise at the Church for the bridal couple, David and Carol Holby during 1970’s

L-R, Sergeant Krishnasamy Naidu; Chief Sergeant JR David

In the middle dressed in black trousers and a white shirt with a camera in hand is the young Lieutenant-Colonel Yusuf Pipes Haffajee

(Courtesy Captain David Holby)

Bridal Couple with members of SA Police, Mountain Rise who were the bestmen in the Church Grounds during 1970’s

(Courtesy Captain David Holby)

Warrant Officer JR David during the 1980’s

Warrant Officer JR David during the 1980’s

CERTIFICATE OF AWARD

THE SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE STAR FOR FAITHFUL SERVICE

CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE

Uncle David amongst the rubble during the demolition of the old station during 1983

Uncle David officially retired on 1981-08-31 but remained in service as a temporary member till 1985-03-07.

He retired from the SA Police on 1985-03-07 and was called home to be with the Lord on 1996-12-07.

The following SA Police, Medals were awarded to him

• The South African Police Medal of Faithful Service, 10 years of Loyal service and Exemplary Conduct;
• The South African Police Star for Faithful Service, 20 years of loyal service and Exemplary Conduct;
• The South African Police Star for Merit, 30 years of faithful service and Exemplary Conduct

Uncle David and his dear wife on his 65^th birthday during 1992

Uncle David and his dear wife at their 40^th Ruby, Wedding Anniversary during 1993

Carol and Captain David Holby sometime during the 2000’s

(Courtesy [LG])

Colonel Johnny Govender

Thank you, Logan. Very apt description of the Man. I had the great opportunity to have worked with W/Off. David in the admin office. He was very intelligent. He had a very vast knowledge of how to run a Police station administratively. I was fortunate enough to have gained a lot of administrative experience from him which held me in good stead in all my future endeavours of being a knowledgeable Commander. I felt quite capable having gained a tremendous amount of knowledge from him. He knew every aspect of administration. He was always willing to share his knowledge with me as a youngster learning the art of admin. I was truly indebted to him.

Colonel Johnny Govender

Lieutenant-Colonel Yusuf Haffajee

The following facts is my recollection of W/O David. Known by the name Chief David.

On 10th July 1974 I was sworn into the South African Police force at PIETERMARITZBURG District commandant office which was in loop street. It was a winter’s day and a police vehicle took me to Mountain Rise police station, where I was told to report.  At loop street police station parking lot a big Ford police van driven by Sgt. Dewnand who was accompanied by one other, name i don’t remember picked me up and placed me at the back of the van even though there was more than enough space in the front. I remember not being bothered about this situation as I was a brand-new recruit and a member of the South African Police.  In those days most policemen treated a newcomer badly.

When i reached mountain rise I was taken to W/O David office which was upstairs in the building.

He was a big man in fact huge to my standards as I was a skinny 18yr old now a new student police officer.  He came out from behind his desk and shook my hand welcoming me to the police station. His warmth and tone were such a welcoming feeling, that I felt more relaxed than when I was brought in earlier.  Chief David then gave me a break down of what to expect in my new career and paraded me to the station commander Captain Walker. I will never forget his attitude to discipline but at the same time always a caring ear to listen and guide you. In your career you meet a lot of people, but some will always shine out above the rest. This is how I think of Chief David. He knew his work and was an excellent administrator.  In my career at Mountain Rise Chief held the rank of warrant officer until he retired but, in my opinion, he should have been an officer.  I don’t want to touch on the system back then, but it was a cruel time if you were not liked you would never progress, it was difficult for many brilliant, minded members of non-white descent to excel, but only those who worked under those members can give testimony to their leadership qualities.  Warrant Officer David, [chief] was one of those members who could have been a Great Officer had he been given the opportunity. I have no doubt in my mind and still believe that he was sidelined and that was a loss to the South African Police.

May his Soul Rest in Peace.

SALUTE

Lieutenant-Colonel YA Haffajee

Brigadier Morgan Naicker

W/O. David.

It’s an absolute pleasure for me to write about my shared experiences with Late W/O David. I remember him as a tall, well-built, disciplined police officer.

A man of great wisdom. He provided us with much guidance.

I had the occasion to work with him during his compulsory once-a-month Saturday duty.

What a pleasure it was. On his way home, he would visit a few institutions. I guess it was his way of community policing. When getting off, he would hand me a packet of peanuts. I relished this delicacy.

Late W/O David had the capacity to make a fine station commander if he was given the opportunity.

May peace be upon your soul.

Brigadier Morgan Naicker

A Family Tribute to John Raymond David

The Man Behind the Uniform

While many knew him as Warrant Officer John Raymond David, and many colleagues and friends affectionately referred to him as “Sarge”, to our family he was so much more, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor and the cornerstone of our family.

John Raymond David was born on 1 November 1927, to David Narain and Mary Elizabeth Gilot. He was the eldest of 9 siblings. At the age of 24, he married the love of his life, Bhanmathie Ramjewean, affectionately known to all as “Goodie”, on the 23 February 1953, in Colenso. Together they built a life founded on love, faith, commitment and family values, raising four children: Elaine, Anthony, Carol and Alvin. Their legacy continues through six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Sadly, he did not have the privilege of meeting the younger generations of his family, but there is no doubt that he would have cherished and adored each one of them.

John Raymond David was not an ordinary man. Tall, strongly built and physically imposing, his appearance reflected the strength of his character. Yet beneath his commanding presence was a gentle giant whose love for his family knew no bounds. He was a disciplinarian when circumstances required it, but his firmness was always guided by unwavering principles, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility.

He was a man of strong morals and values, respected not only by his family but also by the wider communities of Northdale and Pietermaritzburg. Throughout his life, he played an important role in supporting and uplifting those around him and was deeply committed to making his community a safer and better place.

As dedicated as he was to his profession, he was equally devoted to his family. He worked tirelessly to provide a comfortable and secure life for his wife and children, taking great pride in ensuring that their needs were always met. His love for Goodie was evident in everything he did. Even in later years, he remained thoughtful, romantic and attentive. He never hesitated to show his affection and often expressed it through the simple acts that became treasured family memories. Whether it was arriving home with Chicken Licken, Kara Nichas: savoury treats, or ensuring that visitors were always welcomed and fed, his generosity knew no limits.

Beyond his professional life, he was an avid sportsman and greatly enjoyed playing soccer. Fishing was one of his greatest passions, and many of us fondly remember being awakened at four o’clock in the morning to accompany him in search of the “perfect” worms for bait. According to Sarge, successful fishing depended entirely on finding the right worms! His yellow Mazda would be loaded to capacity with rods, tackle and supplies as we set off before sunrise to spend the day at the dam. These outings became some of our most cherished childhood memories.

John Raymond David possessed an exceptional intellect and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Every morning began with the Natal Witness newspaper, which he would read from cover to cover while listening attentively to the news broadcasts. His pipe was rarely far from reach as he absorbed current affairs and world events. He was extraordinarily well-informed and could engage in meaningful discussion and debate on almost any topic. Through his enthusiasm for learning, he ensured that those around him remained informed as well.

His love of reading extended far beyond newspapers. He built an impressive collection of novels, reference books and Reader’s Digest publications, which he generously shared with family and friends. He firmly believed that knowledge was power and something to be shared.

Gardening was another of his great passions. The garden at 19 Gaysingh Road, Northdale, was a source of immense pride and, without exaggeration, one of the most admired gardens in the area. Filled with colourful rose bushes, flowers, fruit trees and vegetable beds, it reflected the care and dedication he invested in everything he undertook. It was a familiar sight to see Sarge in his sunhat, shears in hand, tending meticulously to every corner of the garden. The grapes, litchis and mangoes harvested from his garden were second to none and remain fond memories for all who were fortunate enough to enjoy them.

As a husband, he was devoted, loving and unwavering in his commitment to his family. He took responsibility for every aspect of caring for his household, from paying bills and running errands to ensuring that Goodie was short of nothing. He also enjoyed cooking and often surprised us with hearty breakfasts or dishes we had never encountered before. Whatever he prepared, it was always shared with love and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

As a father, he led by example. He instilled discipline, integrity, respect and hard work in his children, while simultaneously providing them with unconditional love and support. His guidance laid the foundation upon which his family would build their lives.

As a Grandfather: contribution made by the Grandchildren

To many, he was “Sarge” – a respected police officer, mentor, colleague and community leader. Within our family, however, we were privileged to know the man behind the uniform.

Having spent much of our childhood being raised by our grandparents, we affectionately knew our grandfather as “Big Daddy” and our grandmother as “Big Ma”. These names reflected the significant role they played in our life and the deep love, security and guidance they provided. While many knew and admired the accomplished policeman, we were fortunate to experience the devoted family man whose influence extended far beyond his professional achievements.

We consider ourselves incredibly blessed to have been raised by a man of such character, strength and wisdom. Much of who we are today is largely attributable to the values he instilled, the example he set, and the unwavering support he provided throughout our life. Through his actions, he taught us the importance of integrity, discipline, respect, humility and service to others.

He gave his all: to his profession, his community and, most importantly, to his family. He lived a life of purpose and distinction, earning the respect of those who worked alongside him and the admiration of those who knew him personally.

He set a standard of excellence that continues to inspire future generations. While the shoes he left behind are impossibly large to fill, his legacy lives on through the values he imparted and the lives he touched. His influence remains woven into the fabric of our family and serves as a constant reminder of the kind of person we should strive to be.

The admiration, respect and love we have for him cannot adequately be expressed in words. We miss him deeply and carry his memory with us every day. His legacy endures not only through his accomplishments and service, but through the countless lessons, memories and moments he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

Rest in Peace, Sarge. Your legacy will forever remain in our hearts.

Joint submission made by the David Family

Collage of photographs depicting Uncle David in the three different uniforms he adorned during his career

AFTERWORD

The life of Uncle David reminds us that success is not measured only by rank or achievements, but by the positive difference we make in the lives of others. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected police officer shows what can be achieved through hard work, determination and strong values.

Throughout his career, he remained committed to serving his community with honesty, courage and compassion. He led by example, treated people with respect and never lost sight of the importance of integrity. His story also shows that there will always be challenges, but perseverance and faith can help overcome them.

Uncle David’s legacy will continue to inspire those who choose a life of service. His dedication to justice, his commitment to his family and colleagues, and his willingness to help others are qualities that deserve to be remembered and celebrated. May his life encourage future generations to serve with honour, humility and pride.

Acknowledgement

I wish to recognise and thank the Editor in Chief of Nongqai, Brigadier Hennie Heymans for his tireless, often unseen efforts in helping with the creation and publication of this magazine.

Brigadier Hennie Heymans, Editor in Chief of Nongqai

An experienced and highly skilled officer with an exceptional memory. His Dad was stationed at Somtseu Road and Mount Edgecombe during the 1940’s. Brigadier holds a Master’s degree in Strategy. Was stationed with Lieutenant-Colonel (Ray) Mathura Munilall at Wentworth. He was also based at King’s Rest (Brighton Beach); and amongst others, Soweto Region, The Public Relations Officer at Head Office and later a District Commandant at Welkom in the Free State Province.

I must also acknowledge the outstanding contributions and enduring commitment of those who strive to preserve our policing heritage.
My sincere thanks go to:

• Mrs Sandra Pillay, Uncle David’s eldest granddaughter for her untiring efforts and contributions;
• His younger brother AL David and his Daughter, Mrs Cilla Barath ;
• Lieutenant-Colonel Yusuf Pipes Haffajee for his enormous efforts in locating the family of Uncle David; a few attempts was made several years ago to highlight the career of Uncle David but information was not forthcoming;
• Brigadier Morgan Naicker; Colonel Johnny Govender and Lieutenant-Colonel Yusuf Pipes Haffajee for their respective contributions;
• Mr Michael Huxtable and Mrs Jennifer Bosch for their respective contributions;
• And finally, to my family, for their patience, encouragement, and understanding throughout the journey of researching, compiling and refining this tribute.

“Each day, millions of police officers do the selfless work of putting their lives on the line to protect civilians, frequently responding to or preventing crises completely with no recognition.” – Letitia James

“agnoscere et honorare servientibus” –

“to acknowledge and honour those who served”

“Soli Deo Gloria” – “To God Alone Glory”

Logan Govender