Regiment University of Witwatersrand

Regiment University of Witwatersrand was an artillery regiment of the South African Army. 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 Witwatersrand
SADF Regiment University of Witwatersrand emblem
Active1960 to 1985
Country South Africa
Allegiance
Branch
TypeReserve Artillery
Part ofSouth African Army Artillery Formation
Army Conventional Reserve
Garrison/HQJohannesburg
Artillery Battery Emblems
Artillery Beret Bar circa 1992

History

In the late 1950s in South Africa, military units were attached to each large university. The University of Witwatersrand acquired an artillery capability. [1] 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.

Operations

The Regiment was affiliated with the University only from 1960 to 1968. The regiment was a part-time unit and was mobilised in limited amounts for the Border War from 1976 to 1979. In 1981 elements of the regiment provided artillery support for Operation Protea. In 1985 the Regiment was deployed in its secondary role as infantry.

The development of the Citizen Force

Further changes in national service policy resulted in most university students being posted to urban commandos, making it clear the Regiment could no longer remain as constituted.

Association with the Transvaal Horse Artillery

It was thus decided to revive the name Transvaal Horse Artillery, which today is equipped and trained on the G6 self-propelled 155mm Gun comprising four batteries of a Regimental HQ Battery, No 7 Battery, No 8 Battery and No 9 Battery.

Regimental Emblems
  • SADF Regiment University of Witwatersrand insignia

References
  1. Scientia Militaria, South African Journal of Military Studies, Vol 10. Nr 1 1980
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