Edenvale Commando was a
light infantry
Light infantry refers to certain types of lightly equipped infantry throughout history. They have a more mobile or fluid function than other types of infantry, such as heavy infantry or line infantry. Historically, light infantry often fought ...
regiment of the
South African Army
The South African Army is the principal land warfare force of South Africa, a part of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), along with the South African Air Force, South African Navy and South African Military Health Service. ...
. It formed part of the
South African Army Infantry Formation as well as the South African Territorial Reserve.
History
Origin
Operations
With the SADF
During this era, the unit was mainly engaged in area force protection, search and cordones as well as other assistance to the local police.
The unit resorted under the command of Group 41.
With the SANDF
=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. 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
Charles Nqakula (born 13 September 1942) is a South African politician who served as Minister of Defence from September 2008 to 2009. He also served as Minister for Safety and Security from May 2002 to September 2008.
Nqakula is married to fo ...
.
By 2013, the derelict Rietfontein Commando base had fallen into a state of decay, raising many concerns by local residents and business owners. Also known as the Edenvale Commando/Barracks, the building, together with the current Sebenza Police Station, used to house a wing of the South African Defence Force. A report requested the municipality for permission to demolish the building and sell the land by public tender.
Leadership
Insignia
Dress Insignia
References
See also
*
South African Commando System
The Commando System was a mostly voluntary, part-time force of the South African Army, but in their role as local militia the units were often deployed in support of and under the authority of the South African Police.
Mission
South Africa's ...
Infantry regiments of South Africa
Disbanded military units and formations in Germiston
South African Commando Units
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