Tugela Commando

Tugela 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.

Tugela Commando
Tugela Commando emblem
DisbandedFebruary 14, 2003 (2003-02-14)
Country South Africa
Allegiance
Branch
TypeInfantry
RoleLight Infantry
SizeOne Battalion
Part ofSouth African Infantry Corps
Army Territorial Reserve
Garrison/HQTugela

History

Origin

With the SADF

During this era, the unit was mainly engaged in area force protection, search and cordons as well as stock theft control assistance to the rural police.

This unit was responsible for the defence of the Umpumulo, Lower Tugela, Mtunzini, Eshowe, Mtonjaneni and Mahlabathini districts.

By 1974 the unit consisted of 24 officer, 316 other ranks and 147 national servicemen.

Disbandment

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
SADF era Tugela Commando insignia

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

References
  1. van Stade, Col L B (1997). "Rationalisation in the SANDF: The Next Challenge". Senior Staff Officer Rationalisation, SANDF. Institute for Security Studies. Archived from the original on 16 March 2016. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  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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