The unknown force

the long version

In many respects they were an after-thought and a convenient reserve in the minds of those who ran the country and its armed forces at the outbreak of hostilities in both world conflicts. Because of the existing politics and prejudices they could not be used in a combatant capacity and were relegated to the more menial tasks and unimposing functions. Despite all this, they answered the call to duty and rallied to the colours when they were most needed during those dark days of 1914-1918 and 1939-1945. In the end they accounted for a sizeable percentage of South Africa's military effort. They were part of all the major campaigns and served in virtually all the theatres of operations, where the South African forces were at war. And many of them did eventually take up arms against the enemy of the time. This story tells of their devotion to duty and their achievements as volunteer servicemen. There were tragedies that befell them and there were many deeds of bravery that they were called upon to perform. This book pays homage to those devoted men, once viewed by history as an Unknown Force, whose contribution was great.