Rhodesian Servicemen and Squadrons.

[Sid Guttridge]

Hi Reggie,

I spent several years in the Rhodesian Security Forces in the late 1970s. Many of these ex-RAF guys were alive then, many of them as farmers, but I have long since lost contact. I believe that Ian Smith is still alive, as well.

Have you tried the Rhodesian Army Association or Rhodesians Worldwide? This may have a few contacts.

I would also recommend having a look at "Wings of Thunder" by Meunier. This is a book on the 600+ Argentine aircrew in the RAF. It might make a useful model for your own work. Meunier interviewed the survivors and their families. Until I read it I thought Rhodesia suffered the highest fatalties in British service at about 10% of those in uniform. However, the Argentine aircrew suffered twice as heavily - about 20% were killed.

I would also question whether the 677 Rhodesian fatalities were all in the RAF. Rhodesian platoons served in many British Army units in North Africa and Italy over 1940-45. This dispersal was to prevent the colony's prime manpower being wiped out in a single action, as might happen if they were all in a single Rhodesian unit. In addition, the Rhodesian African Rifles served in Burma in 1944-45.

Good luck,

Sid.