Rich Smith

It is my sad task to inform members of the death of Rich Smith. He passed away last night, following a bout of Black Water Fever, resulting from his work in Africa.
I first met Rich when I presented a BG Course in Durban. Most of the guys were ex-Rhodesians, and at the post training scoff talk naturally turned to the Bush War. Rich told a few stories about his time in "the army" and from the context I worked out that he had served in the SAS, a fact which was confirmed by one of the other guys. Later Rich did talk about his service, but only when I mentioned some mutual friends. He was a modest man, and never sought acclaim


[Den, Rich and Clint at a braai after a seminar]

Many members will remember Rich from the 2006 International, where he impressed everyone with his quiet professionalism, and unstoppable determination. He made many friends here during that visit.


[The South African contingent at the 2006 International, with Marcus and Den]

Rich served in the Rhodesian SAS during the Bush War, and was an active member of their association.


[Rich with a colleague at the annual Rmembrance Day event at the SAS Memorial]

After leaving Rhodesia, Rich settled in the Durban area, and started Donby Consultancy, offering specialized security services. This kept him involved in high-threat operations in various African countries, and in Iraq and Afghanistan:


[On ops]

Our thoughts and condolences go to Caro and his family.
Rest in Peace Rich.

Absolutely gutted to hear this, especially after reports he was recovering. I had the pleasure of meeting Rich in 2006 and, as Den stated, he made an excellent impression on everyone. A gentleman and warrior in equal measure.

Rest in peace, sir. Valhalla is enriched by your presence.

God bless you and keep you in the Light, Rich. Valhalla is enriched by your presence and may you know well-earned peace there. Enjoy your well-earned place at the warrior's table, brother. Many blessings on you and yours.

We lost a great one today.

Never met him but he sounds like a top guy and a true warrior may he rest in peace!!!

Like a number of others, I met Rich at the 2006 international.

What a top bloke. Quiet, unassuming and certainly able to do the business.

Sorry to hear the sad news.

Just seen this. I too, met Rich in 2006 and stayed in regular contact with him, pimping him for his knowledge and getting book recommendations !!


Gutted to hear this, one of the good guys.


Valhalla is enriched indeed.


RIP.

Rest in peace brother.

You are greatly missed.

Very sad news, he was a true gent.


phil

Sad news, RIP Rich. Condolences to his family and friends.

Giles

Sad indeed.

Rich was a true gentleman, very interesting man.

RIP

I wrote a short memorial to Rich on my blog. https://marcuswynne.wordpress.com/ Thanks for the use of the photos, Den. We're losing too many good ones these days. Or maybe it's just that we're all getting older. Thanks for posting all this, mate. Hope to see you soon.

cheers, m

Really nice memorial to a true warrior and gentleman. Thanks for the link Marcus.
Den

Great memorial, Marcus.

Rich would have been 56 yesterday (I think). RIP

Rich is truly missed by his friends.
RIP

This is sad news indeed.

I too met Rich at the 2006 International, it was my first and meeting the smurf was one of the most intense experiences of my life (I practically shat myself). I remember seeing Rich go through the scenario after me and ending it with a faint smile as if he had been out on a leisurely stroll in the park. I knew nothing of his background but realised that to him it probably WAS a stroll in the park. For a newbie like me that was very impressive.

A nice man and way too young to go. I wish I could have met him again.

Rich was remembered at the annual Remembrance Service at Hereford 2013...



His cross was placed at the famous SAS clock tower...



RIP Rich, you are sadly missed