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Squadron 102

The concept of Voluntary Squadrons had its inception in 1963 as Commando Squadrons (initiated by a Canadian citizen working in South Africa at the time). The duties of the Commando Squadrons were to provide transport for SANDF personnel, transport of light supplies, air reconnaissance, dropping of parcels containing messages and the operation of Telstar (a radio relay function to facilitate communication between ground forces and ops).

Initially 102 Squadrons, founded in 1963, was stationed at Wonderboom Airport. The first Officer Commanding was Cmdt Willie Botha. The squadron consisted of three flights, namely A-, B- and C-flight. East flight had five pilots and three observers. Also included was a warrant officer, a second in command and the officer commanding.

Late in 1963, 102 Squadron moved to Swartkop Air Force Base to facilitate better control. As air force personnel, 102 Squadron would operate from an air force base. This move brought about savings in the form of office rental, etc. Logistically speaking it was easier to manage 102 Squadron.

During 1970, Cmdt Obie Oberholzer took over command from Cmdt Willie Botha. During 1985, 102 Squadron's B-flight transferred to AFB Pietersburg. Maj Phil de Jager who was 102 Squadron's 2IC, transferred to Pietersburg along with B-flight. The flight was then eight men strong. On 1 August 1986, the whole of 102 Squadron was transferred to AFB Pieterburg. Members of A- and C-flight was given the option to transfer to other squadrons. Most of A- and C-flight personnel were placed with 111 and 104 Squadrons.

102 Squadron was still divided into three flights. The squadron was 23 men strong and divided more or less equally between pilots and observers with a warrant officer and a 2IB. Their duties remained unchanged. Due to personnel shortage, personnel had to be recruited from within the 102 Squadron area. Maj Phil de Jager at the same time took over command of 102 Squadron.

During 1990 the commando squadron was its first budget cuts. 102 Squadron was then reduced to seven pilots and no observers. The task of commando squadrons reverted to the transport of personnel only. During this time it was expected of pilots to obtain the minimum qualification for instrument ratings.

1992 was the closure of AFB Pietersburg. 102 Squadron transferred to AFB Louis Trichardt from where it still operates today. The total strength of the squadron at that stage was seven pilots. later more personnel were appointed. The new officer commanding was Cmdt Piet Vorster.

During 1994, as with many other things in our country, the name Commando Squadrons changed to Voluntary Squadrons. During 1996, the task of voluntary squadrons was again extended to include air reconnaissance and telstar relaying. The pilot strength of the squadron grew to eleven.