"RECCE" A Collector's Guide to the South African Special Forces

Large hardcover with 320 pages. Signed on title page by Matthysen. This is a good copy.

This book has been some 15 years in the making and can claim, with some justification, to be the definitive publication on the `Recces', unlikely to be topped for many, many years. The South African Special Forces have invariably been portrayed as a sinister force, used in covert operations locally and abroad, but this is pure political expediency and media propaganda. The unit's operators are shy, humble soldiers, whose primary role is intelligence-gathering, although they will take offensive action, ruthlessly, if necessary. Highly trained professionals in a class of their own, these elite troops have garnered for themselves an international reputation par excellence. With a foreword by the late Major-General F. W. Loots, this unique book also includes a comprehensive history of the Reconnaissance Regiments and auxiliary units; selection and training processes and techniques; insignia, kit and equipment; honours and awards; memorabilia, memorials and museums and also an amazing 2,500 full-colour images. 

Paul Matthysen has been researching South African Special Forces since 1991, and lives in Johannesburg. Matthew Kalkwarf lives in Johannesburg and manages his own company. With a keen interest in the military, Michael Huxtable served two years' national service in the South African Defence Force Intelligence School during 1988/89. Mike lives and works in Johannesburg.