Original Border War era South African Special Forces 5 Reconnaissance Regiment (RECCE) 5.2 Commando Grouping.
Outstanding grouping that belonged to a career Special Forces Officer who served in the Rhodesian Selous Scouts during the Bush War and in the South African Defence Forces elite 5 Reconnaissance Regiment (RECCE), 5.2 Commando during the Border War.
This grouping consists of:
WO1 Edwards’ Slangvel (Jump Jacket) with two 5 RECCE HQ Shoulder Flash’s, Cloth Operator’s Badge Insignia, cloth jump wings, metal Master Jump wings, and two Warrant Officer cloth sleeve insignia
1995 Maroon reconnaissance regiment stable belt numbered 1774
Signed RECCE issued DPM Bush hat
SADF Forward Air Control Logbook
FAC + AFAC Handbook
Restricted School of Armour Eland Handbook
SADF Paratrooper’s Logbook
1985 Signed and Dated Special Forces Operator Certifcate
Numbered 145 Special Forces Operator Badge with matching numbered 145 Mini Operators Badge, both of which missing one pin
Gold Operator’s Badge with Genuine Diamond for 10 years of continuous service, numbered 143, missing one pin
Pre 1994 5 RECCE Leather Fob signed on reverse
Post 1994 5 RECCE Leather Fob also signed on reverse
Reconnaissance Regiment Operator’s Badge Cloth insignia signed on the reverse
Operation Firewood Challenge Coin engraved to Edwards
SADF era metal name badge
Three SADF era Metal Jump Wings
SADF era Warrant Officer Metal badge
and eleven laminated photos of Edward’s, eight of which are signed by Edwards on the reverse.
WO1 Edwards’ initial service in the military started in Rhodesia, answering his nations call in 1966, upon enlisting, Edwards served with pride in the Rhodesian Light Infantry up until 1975, At the height of the Bush War, Edwards completed Selous Scouts Selection becoming a fully qualified Operator at the rank of C/SGT. Edwards served with the Scouts until the very end of the Bush War in 1980, after which he went to South Africa, as many Bush War veterans did, and completed Special Forces Selection earning the coveted Operator’s Badge in 1985 at the rank of WO2. Serving as an Officer with 5 Reconnaissance Regiment (RECCE), whose heritage comes from the Selous Scouts.
The Selous Scouts, a specialized special forces unit of the Rhodesian Army, played a pivotal role in the Rhodesian Bush War (1973–1980). Founded by Lt.-Col. Ronald Reid-Daly, the unit was renowned for its effective counterinsurgency tactics, which included employing pseudo-guerrilla methods and conducting raids into neighboring countries. These tactics significantly contributed to the Rhodesian military’s efforts against liberation movements such as ZANLA and ZIPRA. The unit’s name was inspired by the renowned explorer Frederick Selous, and it was celebrated for its members transcending cultural barriers and earning a high number of military decorations.
In 1987 Edwards took part in Operation Firewood, a covert military operation conducted by the South African Defence Force (SADF) during the South African Border War, targeted the PLAN Northern Command base located 35 kilometers north of Techamutete, Angola, at a place called Indungo. A SADF battle group, comprising elements of the 1st Parachute Battalion, the 5th Reconnaissance Regiment, the 2nd Reconnaissance Regiment, and the 101st Battalion, was formed. This mechanized force was equipped with Ratels, Casspirs, and Buffels. The attack commenced on October 31, 1987. The PLAN base, situated in a dense wooded area, was assaulted from the west by special forces (“recce’s”) and paratroopers (“Parabats”) of the SADF, while the 101st Battalion provided cover from the north, east, and south, anticipating PLAN forces’ retreat. The ensuing battle was characterized by intense fighting that lasted for seven hours, with PLAN putting up a valiant resistance against the SADF. Despite their efforts, the SADF forces were unable to secure the base and withdrew when PLAN reinforcements were believed to be approaching. The South African forces suffered significant casualties, with reports ranging from 15 killed and 65 wounded to 19 killed and 64 wounded. On the SWAPO side, the casualties were also substantial, with at least 150 PLAN soldiers reportedly killed. In recognition of their exceptional bravery and valor in action, five members of the 101st Battalion were awarded Honoris Crux medals.
The Special Forces Operator’s Badge is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed the Special Forces Pre-selection, Selection, and Basic Operators Training Cycle, which spans approximately a year. This comprehensive training encompasses both practical and academic aspects. Upon successful completion, applicants are qualified as South African Special Forces Operators. The badge is designed to symbolize the Special Forces’ heritage. It features an inverted Commando Knife within a Laurel Wreath. The Commando Knife represents the Special Forces’ identity, while the Laurel Wreath signifies victory. The badge is worn on the right hand side pocket of the uniform, above the name tag, and above any other Proficiency Badge. Each badge is uniquely numbered, and detailed records are maintained, linking each badge to the specific operator to whom it was issued.
