Hay Commando

Nowadays, Hay Commando has become a topic of great importance in society. The impact of Hay Commando ranges from the personal and emotional to the political and economic spheres, touching different aspects of people's lives. With the advancement of technology and communication, Hay Commando has acquired unprecedented relevance, influencing the way we relate, work and develop as a society. In this article, we will explore the many dimensions of Hay Commando and its influence on our lives, as well as the possible future implications it could have.

Hay Commando
Hay Commando emblem
Country South Africa
Allegiance
Branch
TypeInfantry
RoleLight Infantry
SizeOne Battalion
Part ofSouth African Infantry Corps
Army Territorial Reserve
Garrison/HQMarydale, Northern Cape

Hay 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

Origin

As an isolated border town in the Cape Colony, Hay was allowed to protect itself from attack.[1][2]

Operations

Republican Rebels

During the Anglo Boer War approximately 1000 commandos from this district sided with the Orange Free State and ZAR republics.[3]

With the UDF

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.

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.[4][5] 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.[6]

Unit Insignia

SADF era Hay Commando insignia
SADF era Hay Commando insignia

Leadership

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

References

  1. ^ Boer War Memorial Hay - Traces of War
  2. ^ "Anglo Boer War - Hay District Mounted Troops".
  3. ^ De Wet, C.R. Three Years War, Galago Press, Alberton, 1986 pp127
  4. ^ Col L B van Stade (1997). "Rationalisation in the SANDF: The Next Challenge". Institute for Security Studies. Archived from the original on 16 March 2016. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  5. ^ "About the Commando system". Archived from the original on 6 December 2007. Retrieved 17 January 2008.
  6. ^ de Lange, Deon. "South Africa: Commandos Were 'Hostile to New SA'". Cape Argus. Retrieved 5 March 2015.

See also


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