The South African
Lt-Gen. G.E. BRINK, CB, CBE, DSO, Chairman, Board of trustees.
As we look back we cannot fail to be impressed by the important role played by our armed forces in the development of South Africa. If we ask ourselves how much we really know of our early history and, in particular, the history of the many regiments that have existed and fought to bring about civilization, Christianity, peace and prosperity to this once undeveloped and savage southern tip of Africa the answer must, in most cases, surely be very little indeed and that the untapped field of military history is greater by far than that which has been researched. It is thus hoped that this journal will fill a need in this direction and at the same time stimulate interest in not only our military heritage but in the history of our Country which, short as it might be, is a record of phenomenal achievement and progress in the face of adversity and hardship.
I commend this publication to all citizens and, in particular, to serving members of the Defence Forces and students of military history.
I would also like to congratulate the members of the S.A. Military History Society who in conjunction with the Director and staff of the Museum have made possible its publication.
I think it fitting that it should be published to commemorate both the 25th Anniversary of the birth of the Museum and that great battle which turned the tide in World War II - the Battle of El Alamein.
I add my hopes that the journal will be successful and that it will go from strength to strength.
South African Military History Society / scribe@samilitaryhistory.org