“We Fear Naught But God”
5 Reconnaissance Regiment was moved from Duku Duku to Phalaborwa in 1980 where it has remained ever since.
In 1981, 5 Reconnaissance Commando was re-designated as 5 Reconnaissance Regiment.
The emblem of the unit was authorised on 13 February 1982 and the unit colour was awarded on 5 December 1988.
The compliment of 5 Reconnaissance Regiment were dealt into Commandos, as follows:-
5.1. Commando – Operational (Motto: Komesho Nonyanti)
5.2. Commando – Operational (Motto: Camels don’t cry)
5.3. Commando – Operational (Motto: Pamberi ne Hondo)
5.4. Commando – Operational (Small Teams)
5.5. Commando – Training
During the period of rationalisation, re-organisation and integration, from 1992 to 1995, 5 Reconnaissance Regiment was firstly renamed 451 Parachute Battalion, before being finally re-designated as 5 Special Forces Regiment.
Entrance to 5 Special Forces Regiment
In 1997, the Special Forces School was transferred to 5 Special Forces Regiment upon the retirement of 1 Special Forces Regiment, where the School had previously been based. The Special Forces School was transferred out of 5 Special Forces Regiment in 2002, to become a stand-alone unit, situated at Hammanskraal north of Pretoria.
The Commandos in 5 Special Forces Regiment were reorganized to comprise:-
5.1 Commando – Operational Commando
5.2 Commando – Operational Commando
Training Wing
Credo of 5SFR
5SFR Unit HQ
5SFR Unit Memorial
Unveiling of the Regimental Colours
The Regiment received it’s Regimental Colours on 5 December 1988. It is seen here during the formal parade held at Schiettocht Base to celebrate the event.
The unit was allowed to add the name of the battle to their Regimental Colours. Faces of serving SA Special Forces operators are blacked out.
