Did you know? UNIFORM, EQUIPMENT & DESIGNATIONS

* The original colour of the British Paratrooper beret is red. When the first group of qualified SA paratroopers returned from the UK after completion of their para-training they found the red beret was allocated to SA Medical Services. The nurses donated their maroon capes to be used a material for manufacturing the berets for our paratroopers.

* The red beret was issued to troops in the battalion in 1969 – the same year as the first banner was unfolded

* The first jumper boots were used in 1961

* The jumpers’ boots originated from the British paratroopers. It was later manufactured in South Africa.

* The Smock Jacket and trousers were originally utilised to wear over battle fatigues and kit to ensure the parachute rigging lines cannot get hooked during exit and opening of the parachutes.

* The “Bokkop” metal badge of a Sprinbok’s head was used on the red beret in 1969

* The “Staaldak” referred to your helmet

* A “Varkpan” is a stainless steel plate used to serve food. It translates as pig plate

* Dixies was two square metal containers in which food was served

* A fire bucket referred to a metal container to keep your water bottle in

* A Tiffy is a mechanic