Regiment University of Pretoria

Regiment University of Pretoria was an artillery regiment of the South African Artillery. As a reserve unit, it had a status roughly equivalent to that of a British Army Reserve or United States Army National Guard unit. It was part of the South African Army Artillery Corps.

Regiment University of Pretoria
Regiment University of Pretoria emblem
Active1960-1974
Country South Africa
Allegiance
Branch
TypeArtillery
SizeRegiment
Part ofSouth African Army Artillery Corps
Army Conventional Reserve
Garrison/HQPretoria
Insignia
Collar BadgeBursting grenade with seven flames
Beret ColourOxford Blue
Artillery Battery Emblems
Artillery Beret Bar circa 1992

Origin

In the 1950s in South Africa, military units were attached to each large university. The University of Pretoria acquired an artillery capability. The concept was for long term students to complete their obligatory military training in these units. Training would also be organised so as not to unduly interfere with university work.

1 Observation Battery

On 1 May 1950 an observation and sound measurement battery affiliated to the existing 1 Observation Battery was established at the University of Pretoria under a Captain L.J. Le Roux.

By 1957 this battery was renamed P Battery. When 1 Observation Battery was divided in 1 January 1960, the elements at the university was renamed the Regiment University of Pretoria (SAA).

Association with 17 Field Artillery Regiment

On 1 February 1974, the Regiment was renamed 17 Field Artillery Regiment and ended its close association with the University.

Insignia

Dress Insignia

The insignia in the middle depicts that of University of Pretoria Military Unit. UPMU formed circa 1981 and disbanded in circa 1990.

SADF era Regiment University of Pretoria insignia

References
    • Further reading: Wilsworth, Clive. First In, Last Out: The South African Artillery in Action: 1975–1988. 30 Degrees South. ISBN 978-1-920143-40-4.


    This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.