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Ratel
18-03-06, 20:45
The image below depicts a funny incident that is worth noting here.

http://www.sa-soldier.com/linkedimages/fattyjumpstheclaymore.jpg

One day during 3rd phase in Lohatla (in the Kalahari) the whole battalion was trucked
out to an area overlooking the plains. Upon reaching the crest we saw to our excitement
a whole lineup of the South African military's finest vehicles and weaponry. This was to be a
display of firepower the likes of which we had never seen before. I had my camera with me
and made some (bad quality) photos.

In one demonstration we were shown some large foam pads which one could apparently use
for walking through a minefield. After showing us some Claymore anti-personnel mines, our
instructors brought out these big pads and said that even the heaviest troopie could walk
through a minefield on these things without being blasted and commenced to prove this by
calling our fattest guy to try them out. They placed a dud mine underneath the pad and our
fatty hopped over it. To our surprise the dud went off with a pop and a small cloud of smoke!
The whole Battalion burst out laughing and it really was a funny sight, but I had made a mental
note not ever to end up in a situation where I'd have to rely on those things.

hel;

Bombardier
19-03-06, 07:42
Hmm dont think I would use them either, probably just call up for the Giant VIPER and clear me a path right through the middle of it, that said if I needed to be silent the old bayonet would suffice. FOAM?? no thanks (Y)

Bundu Basher
20-03-06, 22:07
Clearing minefields? Thats why we carried Infantrymen inside a Ratel! ;)