Author: Preller Geldenhuys

Publisher:

Published: 2018-10-17

Total Pages: 131

ISBN-13: 9781728886619

Operation Miracle symbolizes all that was courageous and audacious in the fighting men and women of Rhodesia. It is a tribute to those that made the ultimate sacrifice.This military history account will interest all Rhodesian and Zimbabweans interested in the Rhodesian War 1965 - 1980 history, especially the period before a new government took over the country.Operation Miracle records the search for the crash sites of a Hunter pilot and a Canberra crew - pilot and navigator - killed in action, whose bodies lie in unmarked graves in a foreign country. It also records bringing the close relatives of the three bold airmen to witness the unveiling of the Operation Miracle Memorial that paid tribute nearly 30 years after their next-of-kin were given the tragic news "Killed in Action".This is the story that makes Operation Miracle unique in the history of Rhodesia.Foreword by Air Vice Marshal Chris Dams and Introduction by a Group Capt (both retired from the Rhodesian Air Force / Air Force of Zimbabwe).The forword reads "What is it that makes Op Miracle so unique? It was certainly not the first time that the Rhodesian Forces had carried out bold attacks on the enemy, beyond their borders. Nor was it significant in the size of the air or ground effort employed by them. But it was a time when the emphasis was inexorably moving from a bush conflict into a war with sophisticated weapons and technology. The advantage of air superiority, long enjoyed by the Rhodesian Air Force was slipping away. The crew flying on air operations were well aware that the risks, particularly on cross-border missions, were becoming very high.Negotiations for a political settlement were underway. Only six short months after Op Miracle, a new government would take over the country. Many Rhodesians had already left their homeland even as it became obvious that the war was drawing to a weary end. The combatants were mentally and physically exhausted and were clamouring for peace. It was at this time of change that Op Miracle demanded one last, big effort from the Air Force. This was given as always, with courage and determination. These are the qualities that we now seek to honour and remember after all the years. Op Miracle symbolizes all that was courageous and audacious in the fighting men and women of Rhodesia. It is a tribute to those that made the ultimate sacrifice."