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Van Rhynsdorp Commando

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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

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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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