|
|
|
Subject:
Rhodesian Light infantry
BRH
1/27/2006 2:23:16 AM
|
In the mid 1970's when I was conscripted 1st Battalion Rhodesian Light Infantry, it consisted of four commando groups of around 100 men plus Base group. The fighting units were named 1 through 3 commando and Support commano. Support commando provied motar support, plus perfromed the same duties of the other 3 commando's. From it's inception in the early 1960's to time of Zimbabwe independence, it distinguished itself in contact after contact with the enemy. Initial training for this unit came from British military units such as the Royal Highland Fusiliers and the Coldstream guards. At first it performed infantry duties, but as the civil war in Rhodesia heated up, the term Fireforce was coined. The unit became a rapid helicopter deploying shock force consisting 4 men per heilcopter. This four man group was called a Stick. Each Stick consisted a stick leader (NCO) plus a machine gunner, a rifle carrying trooper, and a rifle carrying semi-medic. The NCO carried the radio. The basic weapons were the 7.62 FN rifle, and the MAG belt fed machine gun. The preferred clothing was cammo shirt and green shorts with un-treaded black canavas shoes to help conceal tracks. Later in the war when units were deployed into battle by parachute some troopers jumped in the clothing described, while others wore cammo fatigues.
Other points to note about the unit. Roughly one third was made up from other countries such as the US, GB and AUS. The typical US soldier was a veteran from Vietnam war and a very capable and liked soldier. American Officers were appreciated too due to there liberal use of ammunition. Battalion mascot was a Cheetah. Dress headgear was the a green beret. The green and white stripped staple belt worn only with cammo shirt and fatigues. The unit had exceptional marching skills and discipline was high, and this unit was a band of brothers.
Hope this answers a few questions about this largely unknown group of fighters. One point to note, none of the fighters from other countries could be labled mercenaries. These exceptional soldiers went through the same basic training as the rest of us, recieved the same pay as us as far as I know. They were disciplined, tough, and part of our war.
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Latest
News |
Most
Read |
Hot
Topics |
|
|
|
