New OC for 22 Squadron
Date: 15 February 2008
By Dean Wingrin
At a Change of Command parade held at AFB Ysterplaat on 15 February 2008, Lt. Col. WJ van Aswegen was welcomed as the incoming Officer Commanding (OC) of 22 Squadron. He replaced Lt. Col. ML Carstens, the outgoing OC.
Both the incoming and outgoing OCs arrived at the Parade in a Super Lynx helicopter. After the prayer, the inspection of the parade was carried out. The parade then marched past in Column of Flights, followed by advancing in Revue Order. The General Salute was then taken. After an address by Lt. Col. Carstens, the Change of Command was performed, Lt. Col. van Aswegen then addressed the parade, followed by another General Salute. The parade then marched past in Column of Route. The SAAF Band provided the musical accompaniment.
During his SAAF career, van Aswegen served as a pilot at 15 Sqn, A Flight Swartkop, 15 Sqn AFB Durban, CFS Dunnottar (Flying Instructor and Chief Ground Instructor), SAAF College, Training Officer for the Rooivalk project, 17 Sqn pilot, Staff Officer at AF Headquarters and OC 19 Squadron. He completed several operational tours.
He flew the Alouette III and Super Frelon and is current on the Oryx and A109 helicopters.
Van Aswegen was appointed OC of 22 Squadron with effect from 1 January 2008.
22 Squadron operates the Oryx and Super Lynx helicopters in the landward and maritime roles.
