Second Lieutenant William Bradley Naidoo of the South African Air Force. Is one of sixteen of the SAAF’s Latest Qualified Military Aviator’s of Pilot Wings Course 128.

After going for the SAAFs Pilot/Navigator Selection in 2009. He found himself unsuccessful due to his weight. He was disappointed but nevertheless he always wanted to serve his country as a solider.

He joined as a Technician (Aircraft Mechanic). Did his apprenticeship at 68 Air School and then transferred to Airforce Base Durban ( 15 Squadron ). Qualified as an Aircraft mechanic on the Oryx Helicopter and then immediately moved over to the Agusta A109LUH.

Most recently he became an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) on the Agusta A109 William then headed for the Flight engineer selections. While he was successful there, the dream of being an Airforce pilot never left his thoughts.

Mid-way through the Flight engineer course he made Pilot Selections. There was many frustrations along the way, stop starts,covid -19, etc, but this was that highest level of serving his country that he always dreamed of, “He was never going to let go” and become a military aviator!

The highlights on Pilots Wings Course 128 would definitely be going solo on the Pilatus PC-7 MKll. “My first IF (instrument) landing at Airforce Base Overberg and the Navigation Sortie to Uptington.”

It’s the cross county landings that show you, how much you have grown and what you have become.”

This is his 13th year serving the Republic of South Africa as a Soldier and the first time as an Air Force pilot for my country. He feels really proud to wear this specific wings over my heart, and he is very grateful to The Lord Jesus Christ for this moment and to his family, fiancé and friends who guided him in prayer every step of the way.

“A huge thanks also to a few Hero’s in my journey. My Flight Commander Major L.P Malokane, Major P Moodley, Major M Maal,Major C.R Mnise and Major A.K Maleka”.

” I’m thankful to Major D.L Jacobs,for the over and above instruction, time, sacrifice and effort in getting me to the point of receiving my Air Force wings”.

“Truly I am immensely grateful and appreciate everyone for the love, support and prayers to help me achieve my dream.”