Gallery – Page 13 – Rooiplaas – Paratroopers Community

Miscellaneous – motivation, cartoons, humour

Pro Patria Medal

Pro Patria Medal (1974)For service in preventing or suppressing terrorism or, from 1977, in defence of South Africa, during the Border War between 26 August 1966 and 21 March 1990. Qualifying service was 55 (originally 60) days in an operational area, or being involved in combat or a skirmish, or being wounded or killed in […]

Honoris Crux

Honoris Crux Silver (HCS) (1975-2003)Awarded for exceptional bravery in great danger; from 1993 awards were restricted to military operations. About 26 crosses were awarded, the first recipient (1976) being Lt Hermanus van Niekerk, for distinguished leadership, and evacuating casualties, under fire, in Angola. Insignia: Same design as the HCG, but in silver. Honoris Crux (HC) […]

The ‘Aapkas’

The Aapkas (published in The Friend, 20 August 1975) The first two weeks of the course are probably the most important in the aspirant paratroopers’ training. It is during this short period that they have to pass certain physical training tests. These tests include running 3.2km in 18 minutes, 1.6km cross-country, jumping over a 3m […]

The Marble

The marble is a 32-34kg solid concrete block that was incorporated into paratrooper training. Physical activities with the marble included a 10km run and physical training periods of 40 minutes. The marble even became airborne. It was attached to each troop with a 5 meter rope, resembling the weight of a full kit. The marble […]