Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza-Herald Reporter
THE Air Force of Zimbabwe yesterday held a military parade in honour of Air Commodore (Retired) Peter Samuel Ngulu whose leadership, discipline and mentorship left a lasting mark on the country’s military establishment.
Air Commodore Ngulu, who passed away on July 9 after a long illness, was 81.
Speaking at the funeral parade, Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede said Air Commodore Ngulu’s death had been received with profound sorrow by both the Air Force and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
“We received the sad news of the passing of the late Air Commodore (Retired) Peter Samuel Ngulu with deepest sorrow,” he said.
“I wish to convey my deepest condolences to the Ngulu and Nyateka families, all relatives and friends on this sad loss.”
Air Marshal Nzvede said the funeral parade was a long-standing military tradition reserved for officers and members who served both the organisation and the nation with distinction.
He described Air Commodore Ngulu as “the epitome of a disciplined and hard-working officer”, whose exemplary service was rooted in the values of hard work, discipline and perseverance instilled during his upbringing.
Born on December 12, 1944, Air Commodore Ngulu attended Crowhill Schools before joining the then Rhodesian Air Force at the age of 20.
Following Zimbabwe’s independence, he continued serving in the AFZ, steadily rising through the ranks from Air Lieutenant in 1978 to Air Commodore before retiring in 1995.
During his military career, he completed several professional courses, including the Intermediate Staff Course, Administration and Potential Officers Course, Drill and Weapons Instructors Course, and the Explosive and Drug Dog Trainers Course.
He also held a number of senior appointments, among them Base Commander at Manyame Air Force Base, Thornhill Air Force Base — now Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base — and Field Air Force Base, now Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo Air Force Base.
He also served as Director of Administration at Air Force Headquarters.
“In the annals of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, the late Air Commodore Ngulu will be remembered for mentoring a new generation of officers.
“His leadership was marked by integrity and he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Air Marshal Nzvede.
In recognition of his service, Air Commodore Ngulu received several national honours, including the Independence Medal, Service Medal, Long and Exemplary Service Medal, and the Mozambique Campaign Medal.
