The Special Service Battalion

[milhistry]

Round patch c. 1972/73

[milhistry]

Shield shaped flash, 1970s. This one is for the 2nd Bn.

[milhistry]

Shield shaped, metal & enamel flash, 1980s-2000s. 1 SSB.

[Mervyn Mitton]

Interesting to see Lt. Gen.Dutton as a younger officer - Commandant was an Afrikaans rank and one of the first acts of the

1994 Govt. was to change it back to Lt. Colonel.

Gen Dutton became a friend over the years - he loved to come into the shop and chat. He would have been the Minister of Defence

however, he was of British descent and it went to Malan . Dutton died last year - I think he was 82 - I will post a picture he sent to me

via his Grandson. Dutton was the Head of the Defence Force.

General Dutton was a most highly respected officer - and even the ANC presented him with an award. When Sth. Africa had few

friends he became our Ambassador to Chile. When this appointment finished - he became our Ambassador to Taiwan. These

were the only two Countries that had full Diplomatic ties.

He was the epitome of the saying - 'An officer and a Gentleman' - this does not always apply these days. I miss not seeing him

for a coffee - his wife used to 'lose' him - and then come into the shop and say ' I thought I would find you here '. Mervyn

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Some expansions and additions.

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A new addition with a uniform and equipment variations.

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Sash and bayonet detail.

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Bayonet is regimentally stamped and detail of swagger stick.

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Leather belt variation.

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Portrait photograph taken in Bloemfontein in 1935.

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WW2 South African issue greatcoat in the foreground.

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Hand embroidered SSB banner with all engagement of the Field Force Brigade on it.

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Complete Pattern 37 webbing equipment with rucksack, poncho and helmet.

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Cap details.

[milhistry]

Brilliant collection!