The remarkable SAS career of Sekonaia “Tak” Takavesi included bravery at Mirbat, Oman.
Here's everything you need to know about SAS soldier Sekonaia "Tak" Takavesi.
Sekonaia “Tak” Takavesi
Sekonaia “Tak” Takavesi was born in Fiji in 1943 and enlisted in the British Army on 13 November 1961.
He initially served with the King’s Own Border Regiment before volunteering for the Special Air Service, successfully passing the demanding SAS selection course.
Takavesi served with the SAS for approximately 13 years, taking part in numerous operations and deployments. Fellow SAS veterans have spoken of him as one of the regiment’s standout characters.
The Dhofar Rebellion
In the early 1970s, Takavesi was deployed to Oman during the Dhofar Rebellion.
SAS personnel operated as part of British Army Training Teams, supporting Omani government forces against communist-backed insurgents operating from bases across the border in Yemen.
The Battle of Mirbat
Takavesi is best known for his actions during the Battle of Mirbat on 19 July 1972.
A small force of nine SAS soldiers and local defenders came under attack from more than 250 guerrillas.
During the fighting, Takavesi moved through intense enemy fire to reinforce the defence of a vital 25-pounder artillery position. The gun was being manned by fellow Fijian SAS soldier Talaiasi Labalaba.
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Wounded but still fighting
Takavesi suffered serious injuries to his shoulder, head and stomach during the battle.
Despite being wounded, he continued fighting and helped defend the gun position after Labalaba was killed.
His actions helped the defenders hold back the attackers until air support and reinforcements arrived, eventually forcing the insurgents to retreat.
Distinguished Conduct Medal
Takavesi was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for conspicuous gallantry during the Battle of Mirbat.
The award was one of Britain’s highest battlefield bravery honours at the time.
His actions are frequently cited alongside those of Talaiasi Labalaba, Tommy Tobin and Mike Kealy as examples of the SAS’s finest traditions.
Friendship with Talaiasi Labalaba
Takavesi shared a close bond with fellow Fijian SAS soldier Talaiasi “Laba” Labalaba.
Their friendship became part of SAS folklore, particularly because of their joint actions during the Battle of Mirbat.
Takavesi’s memories of their relationship later formed the basis of his memoir, Brothers In Arms: A Memoir of War and Friendship in the SAS.
Legacy
Sekonaia Takavesi is regarded as one of the SAS’s unsung heroes.
His bravery at Mirbat helped secure a victory that many historians believe altered the course of the Dhofar campaign.
Among SAS veterans, his name remains associated with courage, resilience and loyalty under fire.
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