TOPIC:

Since I had my small badge collection out earlier, I photographed the one shown below.

The Natal Mounted Rifles is the 'mounted' regiment of coastal Natal and it is the descendent regiment of the 19th Century Royal Durban Rangers, Victoria Mounted Rifles, Alexandra Mounted Rifles, Isipingo Mounted Rifles, Durban Mounted Rifles and Umzimkulu Mounted Rifles. It was established in 1888 and separated from the Border Mounted Rifles in 1894. It re-incorporated the BMR in 1913. It still exists today as an element in South Africa's Reserve Force.

It is the subject of one of the best of South Africa's regimental histories:
"Rough but Ready" An Official History of the Natal Mounted Rifles and its Antecedent and Associated Units 1854 - 1969. by Eric Goetzsche.

Brett

A NMR pouch badge and QSA, the clasps of which reflect the total of the regiment's Boer War service, with the possible exception of a 'South Africa 1901' clasp.

Brett

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ted_Swales

Elsewhere on this forum mention has been made of Captain Edwin Swales VC DFC. He started his military career in the Natal Mounted Rifles and during World War II he served with this regiment in East and North Africa, reaching the rank of Company Sergeant Major. He left the NMR to join the South Africa Air Force and was later seconded to the Royal Air Force. The above link gives more information about the life and death of Edwin Swales.

Brett

Hi Brett,

a couple of very nice badges. I do have the helmet badge but not the pouch badge. They do compliment medals although medals aren't my field.
I have Goetzsche's book on the NMR; very comprehensive.

regards, Iain

Brett

Great badges and medals.

As you know a unit close to my heart.

NMR was/is affiliated to Glenwood Boys High School in Durban. I was a student there way back in the 1970's.

I am priviliaged to have in my collection Lt Col Noel Douglas McMilliam VD medal group. He was

the units first OC of WW2.

Iain, yes a great unit history, we were personal friends with Tpr Aubrey Goodwill who had a number of his wartime experiences recounted in this book. His wife was involved with typing the initial draft copy of the book.

Regards
Brian

Brian

I remember you acquiring the McMillan group. Another of your great coups!

It is interesting how a personal link to a regiment, however tenuous, can develop into a deeper commitment. My passion for the Natal Police and Natal Carbineers came about this way.

Regards
Brett