Die impak van militêre aktiwiteite op die Vaaldriehoekse samelewing in die tydperk 1974-1994

Abstract

THE IMPACT OF MILITARY ACTIVITIES ON THE VAAL TRIANGLE COMMUNITY IN THE PERIOD 1974-1994. The Vaal Triangle was, on account of its water resources, industries and population structure of strategic importance and classified as an A-target area. Sabotage, mobilisation of the black population and acts of terror were undertaken in this region by black military organisations. Regiments, commandos, Group 17 and the police of the Vaal Triangle protected this region and did border duty. The navy and air force also played a role. The unrest of 3 September 1984 in the Vaal Triangle led to military operations being conducted up to 1994. The public of the Vaal Triangle was mobilised in order to counteract the 'total onslaught'. People were briefed at events like national holidays, meetings and gatherings. Additional mechanisms of mobilisation were exhibitions, reports in local newspapers, films and heroes' acres. There were also attempts at preparedness. The security forces trained the public to shoot. Youth preparedness included cadets and veld schools. Towns of the Vaal Triangle had well worked out emergency planning while civil defence exercises were held regularly. The Vaal Triangle supported the defence effort in various ways. Parcels for the troops on the border and demobilisation attempts were undertaken in the different towns. The Southern Cross Fund and the Transvaal Agricultural Women's Union were also active in this region. Vaal Triangle factories played an important part in the development and manufacture of weapons. ISCOR manufactured barrel steel and armoured plating while USCO and DORBYL manufactured parts for the G-5 and G-6 guns. Other factories manufactured smaller parts for various weapons. Military activities had a clear impact on the Vaal Triangle. Cases of posttraumatic stress occurred, while many soldiers from the Vaal Triangle died during military service. The dismantling of military activities since 1990 led to defeatism amongst the white population. Uncertainty led to support for the right wing. The downsizing of weapon production, in turn led to unemployment. The Boipatong massacre of 1992 resulted in the discharge of a number of senior officers.