List of badges of the South African Army explained
The South African National Defence Force, like most around the world, has various insignia. The army badges authorised for wear are listed here. If members from other arms of service qualify for these badges, they are also permitted to wear them, The criteria are, in most cases, current but there is some historical information included.[1] [2] [3] [4]
This page provides an extensive list of various badges used by the South African Army to distinguish and identify different military units, branches, and ranks. It includes descriptions and images of badges such as shoulder titles, formation patches, trade badges, qualification badges, and others. Some of the badges listed have historical significance, such as those used during the apartheid era, while others are currently in use. It also includes information on the history and evolution of badges in the South African Army.
Background
New badges have been created to be worn on the camouflage combat dress. These badges are made of black, embossed plastic and are set against a thatch green background. According to dress regulations, only Parachute Qualification Badges may be worn on the left breast, above the pocket. On the right breast, members are expected to wear their name tag, followed by a maximum of two other badges.
Insignia
Good Conduct Stripes
These are worn on the right (pocket), below the name badge on Dress No 1 – 4. There are three Levels - Awarded for good conduct. The criteria for the awarding of this badge are unknown at this stage.
Good ConductGarment with Pocket: Centred on the right pocket |
Garment without Pocket: below the name badge |
Insignia |
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Level | Embossed | Service Dress | | Army Band |
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I | | | | |
II | | | No Image | |
III | | | | | |
Badge for Reserve Voluntary Service (BRVS)
BRVSAwarding Authority: | SANDF Director Ceremonial and Music |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C: | Identification, BRVS, Chrome and Enamel (SANDF Emblem surrounded by a laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 5A: | Identification, BRVS, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (SANDF Emblem surrounded by a laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 4: | Identification, BRVS, Black on Thatch beige (SANDF Emblem surrounded by a laurel wreath) | |
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Criteria: | The identification is only awarded to members of the Part Time Forces who have completed 5 years exemplary voluntary service (ie over and above any compulsory service). Unit commanders must submit a reasoned recommendation (which covers the member’s actual active participation in the unit’s activities) via the Command/Formation HQ to Director Ceremonial and Music for approval. |
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Note: | Members who subsequently join the Permanent Force, or serve full time, are not permitted to wear the identification | |
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61 Mechanised Battalion Operational Service Badge
See main article: 61 Mechanised Battalion Group. The unit awarded a small badge called the Operational Badge for those in or attached to the unit who deployed with the unit on operational duties. The initial version of this had a yellow backing and was awarded only for cross border operations into Angola.[5] A subsequent version with a green backing was mooted, which was intended to be for internal duties. This green backed badge was never approved and the Yellow backed badge continued to be awarded for all operations in which 61 Mech was involved, including internal ones. The badge consists of a dagger with three diagonal lightning bolts in red across it. A subdued version was produced for wear on nutria (brown's) uniforms. With the introduction of camouflage, a new version was produced on green thatching.
Operational Service BadgeAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Identification, 61 Mechanised, Chrome and Enamel (Rectangular bar (upright) in yellow with a black dagger embellished in silver and three red lightning flashes angled diagonally across the blade (wide, long)) | |
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Dress No 5A | Identification, 61 Mechanised, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Rectangular bar (upright) in yellow with a black dagger embellished in silver and three red lightning flashes angled diagonally across the blade (10 mm wide, 40 mm long)) | |
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Dress No 4 | Identification, 61 Mechanised, Black on Thatch beige (Rectangular bar (upright) with a black dagger and three black lightning flashes angled diagonally across the blade) | |
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Nutria | Black printed on brown tape | |
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| This badge's knife points towards the heart of wearer |
Criteria | - Served in the unit for a specified period
- Participated in an operation or helped to ensure success in an operation in which the unit participated
- No criminal record
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Air Supply
See main article: 101 Air Supply Unit SAOSC.
Qualification: Air Supply
Air SupplyAwarding Authority: | The Officer Commanding DOD Air Supply Unit |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Air-Supplier, Chrome and enamel (Half wing with parachute on blue background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Air-Supplier, Chrome and enamel, Miniature (Half wing with parachute on blue background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Air-Supplier, Black on Thatch beige (Half wing) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of Course OSC Mod 52 Basic Air Supply |
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Qualification: Air Supply Instructor
Air SupplyAwarding Authority: | The Officer Commanding DOD Air Supply Unit |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Air-Supply Instructor, Chrome and enamel (Complete wing with parachute on red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Air-Supply Instructor, Chrome and enamel, Miniature (Complete wing with parachute on red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Air-Supply Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Complete wing) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of Course OSC Mod 52 Basic Air Supply |
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Gunner
See main article: School of Artillery (South Africa).
Identification: General of the Gunners
General of the GunnersAwarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Artillery Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Identification General of the Gunners, Chrome (Crossed gun barrels with grenade) | |
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Dress No 5A | Identification General of the Gunners, Miniature, Chrome (Crossed gun barrels with grenade) | |
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Dress No 4 | Identification General of the Gunners, Black on Thatch beige (Crossed gun barrels with grenade) | |
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Criteria | An SAA or ADA officer nominated by GOC SA Army Arty Fmn and the outgoing General of the Gunners and approved by the Chief of the Army |
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Proficiency: Master Gunner
See main article: Master Gunners of the South African Army.
Master GunnerAwarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Artillery Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Proficiency SA Army Master Gunner, Artillery, Chrome (Crossed gun barrels) | |
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Dress No 5A | Proficiency SA Army Master Gunner, Artillery, Miniature, Chrome (Crossed gun barrels) | |
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Dress No 4 | Proficiency SA Army Master Gunner, Artillery, Black on Thatch beige (Crossed gun barrels) | |
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Criteria | - A serving member of the SAA at the time of the award
- An RSA citizen of at least seven years standing
- Successfully completed a long gunnery course OR qualified as indicated in the succeeding sub-subparagraphs
- Course qualified battery commander or GSM
- Preferably obtained a first class qualification on all his SAA courses
- Occupied the post of battery commander, or unit 2IC, or artillery instructor (School of Artillery, or Combat Training Centre) or GSM for at least one year
- His conduct, discipline and bearing must be exemplary and to the satisfaction of the Corps Council
- He must have a solid reputation as a capable artilleryman amongst his seniors, contemporaries and juniors
- It will be to his advantage to have participated in a specific operation, or to have served in an operational area for a period of at least three months
- He must have produced at least one artillery publication which must:
- Be used in the SAA as reference or training material
- Be an original piece of work and the result of research and study
- Be approved by the Corps Council
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Qualification: Artillery No 1
Artillery No 1Awarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Artillery Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, SA Army Artillery No 1, Chrome (Gun image) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, SA Army Artillery No 1, Miniature, Chrome (Gun image) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, SA Army Artillery No 1, Black on Thatch beige (Gun image) | |
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Criteria | - Qualified on the Ordnance Commanders and Technical Services and Fire Control Course with a first class ranking
- Hold the rank of sergeant, staff sergeant or warrant officer.
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Note | This identification may not be worn together with the Master Gunner Identification. | |
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Dog Handler's Qualification
Qualification: Dog Handler
Dog HandlerAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Dog Handler, Chrome and Enamel (Dog’s head on a green background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Dog Handler, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Dog’s head on a green background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Dog Handler, Black on Thatch beige (Dog’s head) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of the Basic Dog Handler’s Course |
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Qualification: Dog Instructor
Dog Handling InstructorAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Dog Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Dog’s head surrounded by a laurel wreath on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Dog Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Dog’s head surrounded by a laurel wreath on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Dog Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Dog’s head surrounded by a laurel wreath) | |
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Criteria | Successfully completed the PF Dog Instructors Course |
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Equestrian Qualification
Qualification: Basic Equestrian
Basic EquestrianAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Basic Equestrian, Chrome and Enamel (Stirrup with a riding crop on green background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Basic Equestrian, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Stirrup with a riding crop on green background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Basic Equestrian, Black on Thatch beige (Stirrup with a riding crop) | |
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Criteria | Qualified on a Basic Equestrian Course |
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Qualification: Equestrian Instructor
Equestrian InstructorAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Equestrian Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Stirrup with a riding crop on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Equestrian Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Stirrup with a riding crop on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Equestrian Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Stirrup with a riding crop with a black circle surrounding the stirrup) | |
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Criteria | Qualified on an Equestrian Instructor's Course with the following results:- Dressage elementary test No 5 - 50%
- Show jumping D Level course - 60%
- Field obstacles - 60%
- Teaching practices - 60%
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Qualification: Equestrian Advanced
Equestrian AdvancedAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Equestrian Advanced, Chrome and Enamel (Stirrup with a riding crop on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Equestrian Advanced, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Stirrup with a riding crop on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Equestrian Advanced, Black on Thatch beige (Stirrup with a riding crop with a two black circles surrounding the stirrup) | |
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Criteria | - This identification is only awarded to riders of international standard
- The member must have qualified on an advanced equestrian course or an equivalent foreign course
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Parachute Qualification Badges
See main article: 44 Parachute Regiment (South Africa).
Awarding Authority
The Awarding Authority is the GOC SA Army Infantry Formation, delegated to the Officer Commanding 44 Parachute Regiment. The qualification badge will be issued on completion of the course and will be controlled by means of a register kept at US 3
Qualification: Paratrooper Basic
Paratrooper BasicAwarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Infantry Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification Paratrooper, Gilt Metal and Enamel (Small brass wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification Paratrooper, Gilt Metal and Enamel, Miniature (Small brass wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification Paratrooper, Black on Thatch beige (Small Black wings) | |
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Criteria | Successfully completed the basic parachute jumping course Mod 701 PARA 1A at 44 Parachute Brigade Training Unit |
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Qualification: Paratrooper Dispatcher
Paratrooper Dispatcher Awarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Infantry Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Dispatcher, Chrome and Enamel (Small chrome wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Dispatcher, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Small chrome wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Dispatcher, Black on Thatch beige (Small Black wings) | |
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Criteria | Completed the static line dispatcher’s course Mod 701 PARA 3 at 44 Parachute Brigade Training Unit |
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Qualification: Paratrooper Instructor
Paratrooper Instructor Awarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Infantry Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Paratrooper Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Large chrome wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Paratrooper Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Large chrome wings with parachute on a blue background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Paratrooper Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Large Black wings) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of the static line instructor’s course Mod 701 PARA 4 at 44 Parachute Brigade Training Unit |
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Qualification: Free Fall Paratrooper
Free Fall ParatrooperAwarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Infantry Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall, Chrome and Enamel (Small chrome wings with parachute on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Small chrome wings with parachute on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall, Black on Thatch beige (Small Black wings) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of the basic free fall parachute course Mod 701 PARA 6A at 44 Parachute Brigade Training Unit |
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Qualification: Paratrooper Free Fall Instructor
Paratrooper Free Fall InstructorAwarding Authority: | GOC SA Army Infantry Formation |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Large chrome wings with parachute on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Large chrome wings with parachute on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Paratrooper Free Fall Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Large Black wings) | |
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Criteria | Successful completion of the Free Fall Instructor’s course Mod 701 PARA 8 at 44 Parachute Brigade Training Unit |
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Pathfinder
Qualification: Pathfinder
PathfinderAwarding Authority: | Unknown |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification - Pathfinder - Service Dress | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification - Pathfinder - Service Dress (Miniature) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification Pathfinder, Black on Thatch beige | |
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Criteria | Successfully completed the Pathfinder Course |
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Air Assault
See main article: 6 South African Infantry Battalion.
Qualification: Air Assault
Air AssaultAwarding Authority: | Unknown |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Unknown | |
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Dress No 5A | Unknown | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification Air Assault, Black on Thatch beige (Small Helicopter with wings) | |
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Criteria | Successfully completed the Air Assault course |
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Musketry Proficiency
Proficiency: 2nd Class Shot – Rifle
2nd Class Shot – RifleAwarding Authority: | Unit Commanders |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Proficiency, 2nd Class Shot, Gilt and Enamel, Chilli with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Gilt (Gilt rifle) | |
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Dress No 5A | Proficiency, 2nd Class Shot, Gilt and Enamel, Chilli, Miniature, with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Gilt (Gilt miniature rifle) | |
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Dress No 4 | Proficiency, 2nd Class Shot, Black on Thatch beige, with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Black (Black rifle) | |
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Criteria | Score of 90-104 in rifle exercise Table 2 or 60% |
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Proficiency: 1st Class Shot – Rifle
1st Class Shot – RifleAwarding Authority: | Unit Commanders |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Proficiency, 1st Class Shot, Chrome and Enamel, Chilli with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Chrome (Chrome rifle) | |
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Dress No 5A | Proficiency, 1st Class Shot, Chrome and Enamel, Chilli, Miniature, with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Chrome (Chrome miniature rifle) | |
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Dress No 4 | Proficiency, 1st Class Shot, Black on Thatch beige, with identification, Proficiency marksmen, Black (Black rifle), with a black rectangle surrounding the rifle | |
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Criteria | Score of 105 Points or more in rifle exercise Table 2 or 70% in the ARSA Watch 1 |
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Qualification: Sniper
Sniper Awarding Authority: | This Identification is currently awarded by both the South African Infantry School and the South African Special Forces Brigade in spite of the two being completely different courses. |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification Sniper; Chrome and Enamel, Chilli, with identification, Qualification sniper, Chrome (Chrome rifle and laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification Sniper; Chrome and Enamel, Chilli, Miniature, with identification, Qualification sniper, Chrome (Miniature Chrome rifle and laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification Sniper; Black on Thatch beige, with identification, Qualification sniper, Black (Black rifle and laurel wreath) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on an SA Army Sniper’s Qualification Course |
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Physical Training Instructor's Qualification Badges
Awarding Authority: In all cases Director Physical Training Sport and Recreation, SAMHS
Qualification: Advanced PT Instructor
Advanced Physical Training InstructorAwarding Authority: | Director: Physical Training Sport and Recreation, SAMHS |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification PT Instructor, Advanced, Chrome (Crossed sabres under Pride of Lions) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification PT Instructor, Advanced, Miniature, Chrome (Crossed sabres under Pride of Lions) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification PT Instructor, Advanced, Black on Thatch beige (Crossed sabres under Pride of Lions) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on the PT Instructor’s Course |
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Qualification: Assistant PT Instructor
Assistant Physical Training InstructorAwarding Authority: | Director: Physical Training Sport and Recreation, SAMHS |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification PT Instructor, Assistant, Chrome (Crossed sabres) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification PT Instructor, Assistant, Miniature, Chrome (Crossed sabres) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification PT Instructor, Assistant, Black on Thatch beige (Crossed sabres) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on the assistant PT Instructors Course |
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Attack Diver
Qualification: Attack Diver Badge
Attack Diver BadgeAwarding Authority: | General Officer Commanding Special Forces |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Attack diver, Bronze (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Attack diver, Bronze, Miniature (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Attack diver, Black on Thatch beige (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Criteria | The bronze qualification badge is awarded to Special Forces’ operators who are proficient Attack Divers |
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Qualification: Attack Diver Instructor Badge
Attack Diver Instructor BadgeAwarding Authority: | General Officer Commanding Special Forces |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Attack diver Instructor, Chrome (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Attack diver Instructor, Chrome, Miniature (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Attack diver Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (The badge depicts a great white shark swimming past the Neptune trident, which is mounted on the mouthpiece of an Oxygears 57 and is enclosed within the tubes of the Oxygears 57) | |
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Criteria | The silver qualification badge is awarded to Special Forces’ operators who are proficient Attack Diver Instructors |
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Demolitions Qualifications
Qualification: Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)Awarding Authority: | OC Ammunition School |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Gilt and silver (Gilt metal ring and bomb, facing down, with silver coloured lightning flash) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Gilt and silver, Miniature (Gilt metal ring and bomb, facing down, with silver coloured lightning flash) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Black on Thatch beige (Ring and bomb, facing down, with lightning flash) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on the EOD course at the Ammunition School of the Ammunition Corps. |
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Qualification: Demolitions Phase 1 Qualification Badge (Dems 1)
Demolitions Phase 1 Qualification BadgeAwarding Authority: | GOC Engineer Formation (Delegated in writing to the OC School of Engineers) |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Dems 1, Chrome (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade which is superimposed over one lightning bolt diagonally (top right to bottom left) across the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Dems 1, Chrome, Miniature (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade which is superimposed over one lightning bolt diagonally (top right to bottom left) across the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Dems 1, Black on Thatch beige (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade which is superimposed over one lightning bolt diagonally (top right to bottom left) across the exploding grenade) | |
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Criteria | Any member who has successfully completed the Dems 1 Course at the School of Engineers may wear the Demolitions Phase 1 Qualification Badge |
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Qualification: Demolitions Phase 2 Qualification Badge (Tactical Demolitions)
Demolitions Phase 2 Qualification Badge
(Tactical Demolitions)Awarding Authority: | GOC Engineer Formation (Delegated in writing to the OC School of Engineers) |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Tac Dems, Chrome (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed over two crossed lightning bolts across the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Tac Dems, Chrome, Miniature (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed over two crossed lightning bolts across the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Tac Dems, Black on Thatch beige (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed over two crossed lightning bolts across the exploding grenade) | |
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Criteria | Demolition Phase 2 Qualification Badge may only be worn by SAEC members who have successfully completed the Dems 2 Course at the School of Engineers |
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Qualification: Improvised Explosive Device Disposal Qualification Badge (IEDD)
Improvised Explosive Device Disposal Qualification Badge (IEDD)Awarding Authority: | Engineer Formation (Delegated in writing to the School of Engineers) |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, IEDD, Chrome (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed, over two crossed lightning bolts. A watch dial, with hour markings, encircles the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, IEDD, Chrome, Miniature (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed, over two crossed lightning bolts. A watch dial, with hour markings, encircles the exploding grenade) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, IEDD, Black on Thatch beige (The badge uses the traditional 9 flames exploding grenade, which is superimposed, over two crossed lightning bolts. A watch dial, with hour markings, encircles the exploding grenade) | |
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Criteria | The IEDD Qualification Badge may only be worn by All Arms members who have successfully completed the Course at the School of Engineers |
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Fireman’s Qualification Badges
- Awarding Authority: SSO Fire & Rescue Services (Log Div) as the functional competency authority for Fire and Rescue Services in the DOD after completion of training at DOD Fire Training School and recommendation by the OC
- Limitations on Wearing by Officers: Only officers in posts directly connected with fire fighting may wear the identifications.
Qualification: Fire Fighter
Fire FighterAwarding Authority: | SSO Fire & Rescue Services (Log Div) as the functional competency authority for Fire and Rescue Services in the DOD after completion of training at DOD Fire Training School and recommendation by the OC |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Fire Fighter; Chrome and enamel (Silver helmet and crossed axes on red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Fire Fighter; Chrome and enamel, Miniature (Silver helmet and crossed axes on red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Fire Fighter; Black on Thatch beige (Helmet and crossed axes) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on the Fire Fighter 2 Course (Practical and Theory) |
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Limitations on Wearing by Officers | Only officers in posts directly connected with fire fighting may wear the identification. |
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Qualification: Senior Fire Fighter
Senior Fire FighterAwarding Authority: | SSO Fire & Rescue Services (Log Div) as the functional competency authority for Fire and Rescue Services in the DOD after completion of training at DOD Fire Training School and recommendation by the OC |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Senior Fire Fighter; Chrome and enamel (Silver helmet and crossed axes on a red background surrounded by a Protea wreath) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Senior Fire Fighter; Chrome and enamel, Miniature (Silver helmet and crossed axes on a red background surrounded by a Protea wreath) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Senior Fire Fighter; Black on Thatch beige (Helmet and crossed axes surrounded by a Protea wreath) | |
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Criteria | Qualification on the successful completion of Fire Officer 1 Course (SAESI) or Higher Certificate in Fire Technology,(Technicon 1st year) |
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Limitations on Wearing by Officers | Only officers in posts directly connected with fire fighting may wear the identification. |
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Motorcyclist Qualification
Qualification: Motor Cyclist
Motor CyclistAwarding Authority: | Award of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Cyclist, Chrome and Enamel (Motor cycle wheel on a green background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Cyclist, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Motor cycle wheel on a green background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Cyclist, Black on Thatch beige (Motor cycle wheel) | |
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Criteria | Qualified on a Basic Motor Cycle Course |
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Qualification: Motor Cycle Instructor
Motor Cycle InstructorAwarding Authority: | Award of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Motor Cycle Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Motor cycle wheel on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Motor Cycle Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Motor cycle wheel on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Motor Cycle Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Motor cycle wheel with a black circle surrounding the wheel) | |
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Criteria | Qualified on a Motor Cycle Instructor’s Course |
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Pilots
Special Forces
See main article: South African Special Forces.
Qualification: Special Forces Operator Badge
Special Forces Operator BadgeAwarding Authority: | Special Forces approves the awarding of the Special Forces Operators Badge on the recommendation of an internal selection board |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Special Forces Operator, Chrome (Chrome dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Special Forces Operator, Chrome, Miniature (Chrome dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Special Forces Operator, Black on Thatch beige (Dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath) | |
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Criteria | The badge is only awarded to members on successful completion of the Special Forces Basic Cycle |
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Note | The identification does not have an stock number, and is issued according to a numerical sequence. (The master list is maintained by Special Forces Headquarters) |
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Qualification: Special Forces Operator Identification (Gold, 10 Years)
Special Forces Operator Identification
(Gold, 10 Years)Awarding Authority: | |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Special Forces Operator Gold (9 Carat gold dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath with a .35 carat diamond set in the centre of the dagger) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Special Forces Operator Gold, Miniature (Gilt dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Special Forces Operator Gold, Black on Thatch beige (Dagger enclosed with a laurel wreath surrounded by a black circle) | |
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Criteria | The member must have completed 10 years service within the Special Forces Headquarters or subordinate units as a qualified SpecialForces Operator |
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Qualification: Forward Air Controller
Please note that this award is made on completion of a Forward Air Controller's course. The course is an Air Force course, not an Army one. The awarding authority is thus most likely a senior officer in the air force.
Qualification: Submarine Operator
Tracking Qualifications
Qualification: Tracker
Tracker Awarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Tracker, Chrome and Enamel (chevron footprint on a green background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Tracker, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (chevron footprint on a green background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Tracker, Black on Thatch beige (chevron footprint) | |
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Criteria | Qualified on a Basic Tracking Course |
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Qualification: Tracker Instructor
Tracker InstructorAwarding Authority: | Awarding of this badge has been suspended |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification, Tracker Instructor, Chrome and Enamel (Chevron footprint on a red background) | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification, Tracker Instructor, Chrome and Enamel, Miniature (Chevron footprint on a red background) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification, Tracker Instructor, Black on Thatch beige (Chevron footprint with a black circle surrounding the footprint). | |
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Criteria | Qualified on a Tracker Instructor’s Course |
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Internal Auditor & Investigator
Internal Auditor & InvestigatorAwarding Authority: | Unknown |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification - Internal Audit Investigation - Service Dress | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification - Internal Audit Investigation - Service Dress (Miniature) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification - Internal Audit Investigation - Embossed | |
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Criteria | Unknown |
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Military Law
Military Law PractitionerAwarding Authority: | Unknown |
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Description |
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Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | Qualification - Military Law Practitioner - Service Dress | |
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Dress No 5A | Qualification - Military Law Practitioner - Service Dress (Miniature) | |
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Dress No 4 | Qualification - Military Law Practitioner - Embossed | |
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Criteria | Unknown |
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SA Corps of Bandsmen
See main article: Bands of the South African National Defence Force.
Corps of Bandsmen Insignia! Description !! Service Dress !! EmbossedMusician | | |
Senior Musician | | |
Principle Musician | | |
Chief Musician | | |
Group Leader | | |
Band Master | | |
Music Director | | |
Senior Director | | |
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Insignia: Chaplains
Chaplain Accouterments
Chaplain Accouterments Headdress | BERET - CHAPLAINS CORPS - SPECTRUM VIOLET | |
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| BADGE CAP - GENERAL OFFICER - CHAPLAIN GENERAL - REGULAR - GOLD WIRE EMBROIDERY | |
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Branch of Service | INSIGNIA - BRANCH OF SERVICE SA ARMY - COLLAR - CHAPLAINS - MMD - GILT | |
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| LANYARD - CHAPLAINS - SPECTRUM VIOLET - MEN | |
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Gorgets | GORGET - PATCH SA ARMY - CHAPLAINS (NON STAFF QUALIFIED) | |
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| GORGET - PATCH SA ARMY - CHAPLAINS - SPECTRUM VIOLET WITH GOLD LACE (STAFF QUALIFIED) | |
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| GORGET - PATCH SA ARMY - GENERAL OFFICERS - CHAPLAINS - SPECTRUM VIOLET | |
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Chaplain, Christian
Chaplain, ChristianDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | BADGE - RANK SA ARMY - CHAPLAINS - CHROME AND ENAMEL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | BADGE, RANK; CHAPLAINS, CHRISTIAN | |
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Qualification | Qualification Chaplain Christian badge embossed | |
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Chaplain, Hindu
Chaplain, Hindu Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - HINDU CHAPLAIN | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | BADGE, RANK; CHAPLAINS, HINDU | |
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| Qualification Chaplain Hindu badge embossed | |
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Chaplain, Jewish
Chaplain, Jewish Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - JEWISH CHAPLAIN | |
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| SANDF - BADGE - QUALIFICATION CHAPLAIN JEWISH FAITH | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | BADGE, RANK; CHAPLAINS, JEWISH | |
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| Qualification Chaplain Jewish badge embossed | |
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Chaplain, Muslim
Chaplain, Muslim Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - MUSLIM CHAPLAIN | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | BADGE, RANK; CHAPLAINS, MUSLIM | |
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| Qualification Chaplain Muslim badge embossed | |
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Rank Insignia
Rank Insignia: Officers
Officer's rank is made up of a few components, including the "Star" and the "Crest" (A part of the National Coat of Arms)
General
Rank: GeneralDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD, SA ARMY; GENERAL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, GENERAL | |
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Lt General
Rank: Lt GeneralDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - LIEUTENANT GENERAL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, LIEUTENANT GENERAL | |
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Major General
Rank: Major GeneralDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - MAJOR GENERAL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, MAJOR GENERAL | |
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Brigadier General
Rank: Brigadier GeneralDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - BRIGADIER GENERAL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, BRIGADIER GENERAL | |
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Colonel
Rank: Colonel Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - COLONEL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, COLONEL | |
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Lieutenant Colonel
Rank: Lieutenant Colonel Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - LIEUTENANT COLONEL | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, LIEUTENANT COLONEL | |
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Major
Rank: Major Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - MAJOR | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, OFFICER, MAJOR | |
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Captain
Rank: Captain Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - CAPTAIN | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, CAPTAIN | |
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Lieutenant
Rank: Lieutenant Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - LIEUTENANT | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, LIEUTENANT | |
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Second Lieutenant
Rank: Second LieutenantDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - SECOND LIEUTENANT | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, 2ND LIEUTENANT | |
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Candidate Officer
Rank: Candidate Officer Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | SHOULDER BOARD - SA ARMY - CANDIDATE OFFICER | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, CANDIDATE OFFICER (CO) | |
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Rank Insignia: Warrant Officers
Warrant Officer Insignia! Description !! InsigniaCollar Badge, Service Dress - Senior Warrant | | |
SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 Level 1 (Master Chief Warrant Officer)
Rank: Master Chief Warrant OfficerDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 — MASTER CHIEF | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 LEVEL 1/MASTER CHIEF WO | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 Level 2 (Senior Chief Warrant Officer)
Rank: Senior Chief Warrant OfficerDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 — SENIOR CHIEF | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 LEVEL 2/SENIOR CHIEF WO | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 Level 3 (Chief Warrant Officer)
Rank: Chief Warrant OfficerDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 — CHIEF | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 LEVEL 3/CHIEF WO | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 Level 4a (Master Warrant Officer)
Rank: Master Warrant Officer Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 — MASTER | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 LEVEL 4A/MASTER WO | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 Level 4b (Senior Warrant Officer)
Rank: Senior Warrant OfficerDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 — SENIOR | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 LEVEL 4B/SENIOR WO | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO1 (Warrant Officer 1st Class)
Rank: Warrant Officer 1st ClassDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - TEAR DROP - WO 1 | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO1 | |
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SANDF Rank Insignia WO2 (Warrant Officer 2nd Class)
Rank: Warrant Officer 2nd Class Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - WARRANT OFFICER - COAT OF ARMS - OVAL - WO 2 | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, WO2 | |
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Rank Insignia: NCOs
Staff Sergeant
Rank: Staff SergeantDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER SA ARMY - STAFF SERGEANT - SERVICE DRESS | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, STAFF SERGEANT | |
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Sergeant
Rank: Sergeant Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER SA ARMY - SERGEANT - SERVICE DRESS | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, SERGEANT | |
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Corporal
Rank: Corporal Dress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - NONCOMISSIONED OFFICER SA ARMY - CORPORAL - SERVICE DRESS | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, CORPORAL | |
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Lance Corporal
Rank: Lance CorporalDress No 1 – 3 and 5C | INSIGNIA - RANK - NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER SA ARMY - LANCE CORPORAL - SERVICE DRESS | |
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Dress No 5A | | |
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Dress No 4 | INSIGNIA, RANK, COLLAR, LANCE CORPORAL | |
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SAMHS
Proficiency insignia of the South African Military Health Service
See main article: South African Military Health Service.
7 Medical Battalion Group
See main article: 7 Medical Battalion Group.
Service Dress SAMHS 7 Medical Battalion Proficiency badges | | |
[6] See also
Notes and References
- Book: SA ARMY ORDER: CHIEF ARMY CORPORATE SERVICES (SAAO/C ARMY CORP SVC/CER/317/07) MANAGEMENT AND PLANNING OF DRESS REGULATIONS AND DRESS INSTRUCTIONS IN THE SA ARMY, MEN AND WOMEN. June 2007. South African Army.
- Book: SOUTH AFRICAN ARMY UNIFORM SYSTEM CATALOGUE. 1. 22 June 2011. Department of Defence (South Africa).
- Tylden. G. Major. Badges, Buttons and Shoulder Titles of South African Regiments: From the Parkyn Collection . Journal of the Society for Army Historical Research. 33. 136. 1955. 162–167. JSTOR. 13 January 2023. 44226309. limited.
- Book: The Military Badges and Insignia of Southern Africa. Colin R.. Owen. 1990. 1 January 1990. 1st. Chimperie Agencies. 9780620154383.
- Book: Wall. Dudley, Col. "Starting Out" Collecting South African Militaria. 15 October 2007. Just Done Productions Publishing. 978-1-9201-6970-1. 3rd. 1 January 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20141123194442/http://www.justdone.co.za/shop/index.php?id_product=17&controller=product. 23 November 2014. dead.
- 7 Medical Battalion Group – a unique unit. The South African Soldier. 2008. 15. 3. 38–39. 21 June 2011. Department of Defence (South Africa). 1609-5014. 26 June 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20150626225901/http://www.dod.mil.za/sasoldier/2008/Mar2008.pdf. dead.