SA Union: Burger Commando Tribute to our Heros
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Form:
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Upright oval Uniface Badge
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By:
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? |
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Date:
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1939 |
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Ref:
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Laidlaw: 1440;
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Variations:
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| Size | Metal | Mass | Value |
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| 36.0 mm x 27.8 mm | Bronze | 10.6 gm | $10 |
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Edge:
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Plain.
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Obverse:
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Mounted Burger Commando rifle at the ready. Legend on a band above: "1838 HULDE ANN ONS HELDE" and below between ornamental stops: "BURGERKOMMANDO".
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Reverse:
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Blank. Brooch attachment. Broken on this example.
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Notes:
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The Burger Commando was a citizen-force paramilitary organisation. It rose to prominence during the Great Trek serving to protect the Boer wagons on their journey northwards out of the Cape Colony. During the Boer War the structure of the Boer forces was organised along the lines of the commando unit. Subsequently, commando units served under the SA defence force protecting rural communities. They were eventually disbanded, the commandos being seen as a racist structure. Nothing has effectively replaced them, leaving farmers exposed to the constant danger of attack.
The badge dates from the centenary celebrations of of Great Trek.
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