Railways Police

[milhistry]

This helmet has the 1950s badge of the SA Railways Police on it. I would be very interested to know when and by whom this type of helmet was worn. Does any one out there perhaps have a photo of someone wearing one? Thanks.

[Traist]

Hi, this is off of their Facebook page:

In the Republic of South Africa the legislators established, in addition to the South African Police, a separate police force specifically for the purpose of protecting the distinctive interests of the S.A. Transport Services and at the same time guarding the gateways to our country — the harbours and international airports. This being specialised work, attention is not only paid to ordinary police work but in particular also to the national transport organisation with all its branches. This Police force was regrettably disbanded in 1986 and all its functions, members and logistic assets amalgamated with the South African Police.

I hope that this helps. Regards Andrew

[Arthur R]

Steven,

On page 117 of Alexander, Barron & Bateman's book South African Orders, Decorations and Medals (1985) is a mid-1940s photo of two SARPF constables in uniform wearing helmets.

[BokJock]

These helmets were originally white. Is it possible to provide a close up picture of the helmet badge? I should be able to tell from that whether or not this is a genuine SA Railways & Harbours Police helmet.

Many thanks

Frans

[Britbadge]

In 1947 the right wing Afrikaner Nationalists Party started to disassociate themselves from the British monarchy. In 1952, the title of South African Navy vessels HMSAS (His Majesty's South African Ship) had been changed to SAS (South African Ship).

In 1957, the Crown had been removed from the badges of the defence force and police.

Hence, your nice looking (KC) badge is, at least, pre 1957. I do not know of a QC cap badge ever being issued.