Preller Geldenhuys


Preller Geldenhuys was a pilot in the Rhodesian Air Force. He left Rhodesia in 1982 and began a new career in South Africa. After retiring, he became an author.

Air Force

Geldenhuys joined the Royal Rhodesian Air Force in March 1962 as a general duties pilot on No 16 Pilot Training Course. After being awarded his Wings he was posted to No. [4 Squadron AFZ|No. 4 Squadron] to fly Provost aircraft, then to No. [2 Squadron AFZ|No. 2 Squadron] – Vampires, then No. [1 Squadron AFZ|No. 1 Squadron] to fly Hunters FGA 9 aircraft, and then had a posting to No. [5 Squadron AFZ|No. 5 Squadron] flying B2 and T4 Canberra bombers. Command appointments included Flight Commander on Hunters and Canberras, Officer Commanding Forward Air Field's FAF 2 Kariba and FAF 7 Buffalo Range, and Fire Force Charlie.
Ground staff appointments included Officer Commanding Admin Wing, Thornhill, Staff Officer Volunteer Reserve and Staff Officer Personnel at Air Force Headquarters.

Later career

After retiring from the Air Force, Geldenhuys joined hardboard manufacturer Masonite as a Personnel Superintendent, retiring as a Loss Control Manager after 20 years service. He emigrated to New Zealand in 2011 and enjoys managing Peysoft Publications, specialising in the formatting manuscripts for epub publication.

Published books