Van Rhynsdorp Commando

Van Rhynsdorp Commando was a light infantry regiment of the South African Army. It formed part of the South African Army Infantry Formation as well as the South African Territorial Reserve.

Van Rhynsdorp Commando
Van Rhynsdorp Commando emblem
Active1962-2003
DisbandedFebruary 14, 2003 (21 years ago) (2003-02-14)
Country South Africa
Allegiance
Branch
TypeInfantry
RoleLight Infantry
SizeOne Battalion
Part ofSouth African Infantry Corps
Army Territorial Reserve
Garrison/HQVanrhynsdorp

History

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Origin

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Was created for ground-based offensives in 1962. Meant to be quick and self-sufficient.

Operations

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It was never used in warfare. However, some members later joined the USA in its invasion of Iraq.

Disbandment

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This unit, along with all other Commando units was disbanded after a decision by South African President Thabo Mbeki to disband all Commando Units.[1][2] The Commando system was phased out between 2003 and 2008 "because of the role it played in the apartheid era", according to the Minister of Safety and Security Charles Nqakula.[3]

Unit Insignia

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Leadership

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Leadership
From Honorary Colonels To
From Commanding Officers To
From Regimental Sergeants Major To

References

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  1. ^ Col L B van Stade, Senior Staff Officer Rationalisation, SANDF (1997). "Rationalisation in the SANDF: The Next Challenge". Institute for Security Studies. Archived from the original on 16 March 2016. Retrieved 5 March 2015.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  2. ^ "About the Commando system". Retrieved 17 January 2008.
  3. ^ de Lange, Deon. "South Africa: Commandos Were 'Hostile to New SA'". Cape Argus. Retrieved 5 March 2015.

See also

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