Defence force chief General Siphiwe Nyanda said at the unveiling of the new symbols here on Tuesday: "This ushers in a new era in which the defence force executes the department of defence's mission with pride and honour,".

They replace not only the old flags, but all previous medals such as the Honorus Crux and other emblems of honour.

He said an important requirement was that they should reflect the transformation of the defence force as the present decorations and medals did not convey the ethos of all South Africans.

"This is why it was decided to reduce the large number of decorations and medals because they are supposed to honour recipients at the highest level, not simply be worn as tokens."

The defence force's new emblem consists of a nine-pointed star reflecting the warm sun of Africa and the nine provinces of South Africa, as well as national pride and loyalty.

Medals reflect the country's assets

In the star, the four sections of the defence force are represented by spear tips. Two tusks tie these as a unit with the defence force's support structures.

The tusks also refer to the power and wisdom of the African elephant. The identical spears strengthen the idea of military identity, power and dignity.

The new medals and badges of honour reflect the country's assets, fauna, flora and people.

From now on, courage will be honoured with the golden, silver or bronze leopard. These medals will be known by their Sotho names, Nkwe ya Gauta, Nkwe ya Selefera and Nkwe ya Boronse

Colonel John Rolt said the initial costs of the medals was about R140 000. The first complete set of flags would cost R1.1m.

Source: News24.com