SAD PASSING OF LT. COL. CHARLIE AUST.

[Eddy Norris]

Rhodesian Light Infantry

PASSING OF L

​T​

.

​COL. ​

CHARLIE AUST  MLM (Retired)​

It is my sad duty to inform you that our beloved Charlie Aust passed away last night in the UK. Charlie has suffered long and hard with progressive Alzheimer's disease.

To wife Pamela and family the Association extends our heartfelt condolences at the sad loss of someone so dear and larger than life.

Charlie was the previous Patron of the RLI Association and we know that he held the Regiment always close to his heart. Farewell old soldier you will not be forgotten.

ORAFs thanks Bill Wiggill for the sad notification. ORAFs extends our deepest sympathies to the Aust family. As mentioned by the RLI, Lt. Col. Aust was larger than life and for many years supported ORAFs and would often write in with assistance or even just a check up. Such a Gentleman, he will be truly missed. 

Messages of condolence may be forwarded to ora...@gmail.com on behalf of the family. Funeral details will be advised once they are known. 

REFLECTIONS

Charlie Aust was born in Enkeldoorn, Rhodesia in 1942. He attended Rhodes Estate Preparatory School and Plumtree High School and underwent National Service training at the age of 17. This early period of military service ignited an inherent interest in the profession. In truth, the Aust family’s African military tradition would read as something out of the pages of Rider Haggard or Wilbur Smith. His maternal grandfather fought in the Matabele War and his great-uncle died with Alan Wilson at the famous ‘Last Stand’ on the Shangani River.

Charlie Aust attested into the Federal Army in early 1962 and underwent 15 months officer training at the School of Infantry in Gwelo. He was awarded the Belt of Honour for best academic results and the Sword of Honour. A three-year posting to 1RAR followed. In 1968, he commenced a three-year period of service at the School of Infantry as a National Service officer cadet instructor. This was followed by a Staff posting to HQ 2 Brigade in Salisbury where he served as GSO3 (Operations). In 1972, as a major, he joined 2 Commando, RLI, and took over command of the sub-unit as the concentrated terrorist war commenced.

A year’s service as Commandant, School of Infantry followed. Highly talented and self-effacing he was greatly respected by all. He returned to 1RLI as Commanding Officer in December 1979. He remained in the post until the unit was disbanded in 1980 and, as such, was the last Commanding Officer. 

'You have a few buddies already here'
'Who also died by trial and error'
'But all by the same token'
'You all died, trying to end the world of terror'

'So come on through these pearly gates'
'You might say we've been expecting you! '
'Did you know you are one of the bravest? '
'And let me tell you that is getting very few! '

'So come on in son, make yourself at home'
'This is more than you could ever dream of! '
'But the most important thing to remember? '
'This whole place is based on love! '


by Norman Hale Jr. 

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