Die Staatspresidentseenheid, 1967-1990

Abstract

An institution such as the State President's Unit of which the guards of King Xerxes of Persia, the Swiss guard of the Vatican City, the English and French Guards as well as the unusual female guards employed by the King of Siam are examples, has a long history · which can be traced back to even long before the Middle Ages. The following article on the English and French guards, deals, among others, with the origin, functions, duties, requirements for admission into these units, as well as with the origin and variations of their uniforms. This serves only as a background and introduction to the article dealing with the State President's unit in the Republic of South Africa. The origin of the State President's Unit with special uniform, dates back to the early Republican days and the founding of the Artillery Corps by President Brand from the Free State and President Burgers from the Zuid Afrikaansche Republics. The earliest, as well as the later uniforms, were to some degree based on the ceremonial uniforms of the artillery and underwent respective changes through the years. The first State President's Unit wore a green uniform which underwent several changes through the years. A blue uniform was for example proposed in 1980, but was rejected by . the Prime Minister in 1984. In 1985, however, a new uniform was taken into use. The uniform itself is that of the army with a few essential pieces added, while the helmets to some extent is reminiscent of that of the Union Defence Force. The State President's Unit has two important functions namely to act as home guard for the State President and also to act as guard of honour at ceremonial occasions. Members of this special guard have to meet specific requirements and are subject to strict selection requirements. The main function of the State President's Unit is to protect his authority over the state and not to protect his person as many people believe. It is also, incorrectly, believed that the only thing they are capable of doing, is drilling exercises. If one looks deeper into the training of these men during National Service, one soon gets a better knowledge of their job. The sentries learn to protect their country against outside attacks as well as against internal unrest. The ceremonial function is of great importance. · This is the reason for the high standard of training for the Unit as home guard, as well as for the training as guard of honour.