About 17th Squadron
17th Squadron gained official squadron status in 1957 and today, the helicopters that make up 17th Squadron can be found all over the continent, wherever South Africa has committed itself to humanitarian or peace support missions. The squadron is, in cooperation with the SA Police Service, actively involved in crime prevention operations and assists with vehicle control points.
17th Squadron deploys regularly to assist border control at the Northern and Eastern borders. At home the crews are on 24-hour standby to assist in rescue operations, especially for the Mountain Club of South Africa.
Ricoh and 17th Squadron
As part of its social responsibility programme, 17th Squadron visits orphanages and schools once a year. These children are given the opportunity to interact with the crew and a few even go on a helicopter ride with the crew.
Ricoh has donated copiers, printers and faxes to many of these organisations visited by 17th Squadron. Ricoh also helped to maintain 17th Squadron’s facilities and build a gym so that its members can maintain the level of fitness required for their work.
