FORGED IN BATTLE?: Life in South Africa's 32 Battalion, 1975-1993

1-249910

Tells the story of black soldiers, led by white officers, fighting on the side of apartheid. Traces the history of the unit from the Angolan civil war in 1975 to its disbanding a year before the fall of apartheid in 1993. Details the ways in which they sought to provide effective support to the soldiers as well as their families. All the former Angolans of 32 Battalion -- both soldiers and civilians -- depended on South Africa to provide accommodation, access to food, medical support, financial advice, and social structure. The unit's motto, Proelio Procusi, translates to Forged in Battle. Examines the extent to which the unit was shaped, not just by war, but also by its unique social circumstances. Contains 10 black and white photos, 4 black and white maps, and 15 tables.