Van Rhynsdorp Commando

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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

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.

History[edit]

Origin[edit]

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

Operations[edit]

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

Disbandment[edit]

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[edit]

Leadership[edit]

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

References[edit]

  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[edit]


Stub icon

This South African military article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Van_Rhynsdorp_Commando&oldid=1197014797"